A comprehensive explanation about the type of replacement car keys, what to tell the locksmith when you need a replacement and more.
Transponder Car Keys Replacement
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One of the most important things to understand when losing your car keys is what type of key you had.
In addition, it is important because you may want to have a different replacement key, e.g. remote starter key in addition to the key you had.
Furthermore, when calling a locksmith for cars, you should mention what type of key you had and what type of key you want.
There are many different types of car keys in the market today and therefore it may affect the price, the availability of service and more.
Remote/ Fob/ Push To Start Replacement Car Keys
Here is a list of the most common keys today in the market:
Regular car key – Non-Transponder
Non-Transponder Car Key – Toyota
This key is a simple metal key. It mostly used for cars made before 1998 and has no security features whatsoever.
In addition, it can be duplicated at the most hardware store and start the car.
Chip car key – programmed car key – transponder car key:
Transponder Chip Car Key – GM
This type of key is the second generation of car keys. Mostly called “chip car key” or “transponder car key”. Used for cars made after 1998/2000 and has a hidden chip, most times inside a black cover at the top.
Where is the chip located?
Inside this black cover, there is an electric chip that needs to be programmed to the car computer to start the vehicle.
Therefore, in case you need a replacement car key and that had a transponder chip in it, the key should be cut and programmed.
Furthermore, this type of key requires special equipment that not all automotive locksmiths have.
Laser cut key – High-security key:
Laser Cut Car Key – Honda
These type of car keys were introduced in early 2000 by most high-end cars such as BMW, Jaguar, etc.
In recent years, more and more car manufacturers are using them such as Honda, Ford, Chevy, Toyota, Lexus, Infiniti and more.
This type of key requires not only special equipment for programming but also a different cutting machine.
Therefore, most hardware stores can’t cut this key and your only options are to tow the car to the dealer or call a locksmith for cars.
When you call a locksmith for cars, verify he or she has the right cutting machine and equipment to program these keys.
Remote car keys:
“Remote Head” Car Key – A key with a remote
Remotes for cars that enable you to lock and unlock your car needs to be programmed. Most locksmiths for cars can do that on site as well as shops.
However, this is not a remote cannot start the car. It has only the capability to lock and unlock.
“Push to start” Car Keys:
Remote Car Key – Dodge
Remote Car Key – Honda
Usually called “remote starter key” “fob car key” or “push to starter car key” had to be programmed, can unlock the car and in addition, start the car.
This type of key is the most expensive and only some locksmiths can make it on site and the price of replacement key either by a locksmith or the dealer is more expensive.
In case you choose to go to the dealer, the car must be towed there.
In conclusion, make sure you are calling around to get the best price and the right replacement car key.
Give Us a Call 24/7 & Get 10% Off All Lost Car Keys, Fob Keys, Remotes & Ignition Repair Services: 800-223-1453
Get your key online:
Click To Order Online
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