All 1997 to 2001 Honda Prelude models were released with the Immobilizer system and losing the key would be a nightmare. If you own a Honda Prelude, you know that based on consumer feedback and reviews, the 1997 to 2001 Honda Prelude Quick came with a flaw: the ignition switch lockout didn’t work properly. This put the key in the ‘off’ position and you could remove it but not shift the transmission into ‘park’. Other than that, the Prelude is a beautiful car to drive.

Most car companies have incorporated the immobilizer feature into almost all vehicles as a theft deterrent. But conversely, if you are in Chicago and lose your Honda Prelude car keys, getting a replacement isn’t just getting a key cut at the local key maker, it’s very expensive.

Immobilizer keys are coded and replacements are only performed by some of the best Chicago locksmiths who have state of the art immobilizer key making machines and the latest technical knowledge. The only other option is to take your car back to the Honda dealer and have the company replace it after paying $800-$1000. In most cases, a good Chicago locksmith will be able to help you if you lose your Honda Prelude key.

Affordable and experienced Chicago locksmiths who have state-of-the-art machines with precision coding and cutting to re-flash and cut replacement keys, also provide other services such as laser keys, electronic keys, and new transponder keys, in addition to replacement installation of lost car keys. They have the ability to program transponder keys, immobilizer keys and high security keys.

Understanding the immobilizer system

The Immobilizer system protects your car against theft. It works with the feature that only the proper coded unique ignition key used in the ignition switch will allow the engine to start, thus protecting your car. Any other car key used will simply disable the circuit. All immobilizer keys come with a chip or transmitter in the head and the code is matched when you place the key in the ignition with the engine switch. The immobilizer key also signals the control unit to activate the ignition system, so if you have lost your Honda Prelude car keys, you will need the services of an expert Chicago locksmith. They have the infrastructure to upgrade a new immobilizer system and cut the keys accordingly.

As one of the top Chicago locksmiths suggests, just in case, you have your car key that doesn’t work and you need a replacement cut, you won’t need the red key. But if you have lost all the keys to the Honda Prelude car, then you will need to flash the immobilizer system again, and the red key will be required. On Honda Prelude cars, it is better to use approved immobilizer key blanks. You should also protect your immobilizer keys from heat, moisture, and liquids.

If you have lost the keys to the Honda Prelude, do not attempt to tamper with the system on your own, as electrical circuits may be damaged or other electrical problems may cause your car to not work. As the owner of a Honda Prelude, you should have received the key number plate along with your car keys. This key number is essential when you need to replace a lost or spare key. If you intend to purchase a 1997 to 2001 model year Honda Prelude, ask the current owner and keep the license plate in a safe place. So if you have lost your Honda Prelude keys, don’t worry. With fast services provided by an expert Chicago locksmith, getting a replacement transponder key is no hassle and the service costs you much less than going to the company for parts.