Different Types of Car Keys

Potential car owners or individuals interested in updating their car keys will like to know the different car keys available. Read on for all the information about car keys.

The Mechanical Key

This is the basic type of car key for older models. It comes with a simple design like home keys. As a car owner, you can walk into any dealer or locksmith shop to cut the mechanical keys.

Because of its simplicity, the rate of car theft increased in the past. That was the reason car manufacturers improved their game by introducing more security-conscious key types.

Remote Keys

Though they are more advanced than mechanical keys, they are used to perform basic security operations in vehicles.

The remote keys are designed to use radio transmitters to exchange encoded messages with the car receiver. Usually, these keys depend on batteries for all functions which include opening and closing the doors and trunk. It is attached to a mechanical cut key for turning on the ignition.

Laser Cut Keys

Also referred to as sidewinder keys or internal keys, the indention or depth down the middle is deep and a bit complex. The added security of laser-cut keys makes it a choice for many car owners. It is extremely difficult for burglars to duplicate laser keys because of the expensive machinery needed for such purposes.

Though it costs more to buy laser keys when compared to their mechanical counterparts, it is good to get one.

Transponder Key

In a bid to increase security, the transponder keys were introduced in 1995 by auto manufacturers. It has a small electronic chip inside which transmits signals to the vehicle’s computer. You can only gain access when there is a matching signal. Some newer versions use rolling code technology designed to send a new code anytime you need access to the car.

It does not have a hardware part for insertion in the ignition, rather, you can operate the car with just a button.

Replacement or reprogramming of the transponder keys is obtainable at the dealership or with reliable locksmiths.

Smart Keys

This is the popular key for modern cars. The high demand for smart keys is because of the convenience and security they offer. It looks similar to the remote control key but there are lots of differences between them. While the remote car key can only be used to open or close the doors and trunk, the smart keys have more functions. You can use your mobile phone as a car key, there are biometric features for added security, Auto Start/Stop features (starting your car at a set range), last parked location, and many more.

Amazingly, the design of smart keys is not only for the latest cars, you can have them installed in different cars and models. All you need is to have experienced key fob programming locksmiths from Top Atlanta Locksmith handle the integration and installation of the smart key in your car.