7 Different Types of Car Keys

We will cover seven car key types and what they are used for. You'll need to replace one of these keys if you own a car, and let’s review the common ones. Diego’s Locksmith can help with any car key replacement, and we can send a dependable locksmith to you if necessary.

Mechanical Keys

These were once the only type of key available for vehicles. Mechanical keys are two pieces that fit together like a puzzle when inserted into the ignition switch or door lock cylinder. The two pieces can be separated so that each part has different purposes — one piece is used to start and stop the engine while the other allows you to unlock/lock doors and windows.

Remote Keys

Remote keys work by using radio frequency technology to open your car door when you press the button on your key fob. Remote keys are more secure than mechanical keys because there are no moving parts inside them that could potentially break down over time. Additionally, remote keys are less likely than mechanical ones to get jammed or broken due to their lack of moving parts.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are the most common type of key. They work by having a chip inside that sends a signal to the car’s ignition system when you turn the key in. This allows you to start your car without inserting the key into a slot.

Transponder keys can be programmed to start only one specific vehicle, or they can be programmed to start multiple vehicles. If you lose your transponder key, it is possible to have another made at a locksmith’s office or dealership if you have proof of ownership for your vehicle (such as an insurance card with your name on it).

Flip-Style Remote

Flip-style remotes are used by many people who want something more convenient than having a key in their pocket all day long but don’t want to have a bulky fob hanging from their belt loop. These remotes have buttons that let you lock and unlock doors, open trunk lids, and start vehicles without removing them from your pocket or purse.

Smart Keys

This key is known as the 'keyless entry' or 'remote start' key. This type of key has a built-in transponder chip that communicates with the vehicle's computer so that when you press the button on the fob, it unlocks and starts your car without inserting it into the ignition cylinder. It also has a range of about two hundred feet. If you lose this type of key, we recommend getting an exact replacement made immediately because there is no way to program another remote starter into your car until you get this one replaced first!

Master Keys

A master key set will have one working key that opens all doors and starts the vehicle and one or more spares that do not open doors or start the car without being programmed first. Master keys were more available for older model vehicles.

Valet Keys

A valet key is a special type of key that only allows the driver to access their vehicle but not turn it on or start the engine. Because of this, valet keys are often used at hotels or restaurants where valets park cars for customers who are going out for dinner or some other activity. They also make it safer for the valet not to have access to start your vehicle if they lost their own keys or if another valet was able to steal them from them.

Conclusion

The above information is what we believe to be the basics you need to know about the different types of keys and their functions. We understand that a simple internet search will bring up thousands of more results and descriptions about the key types, but we wanted to provide at least a place for you to start. If you have any questions about any of the keys or lock types mentioned in this article, please contact Diego’s Locksmith with any questions. We specialize in car key replacement needs and are ready to help when you are ready.

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