Car Keys

These are basic metal keys and do not contain a transponder/chip. They may be made completely of metal or have a rubber or plastic grip on the head.

Also called “chip keys,” these have a larger head than standard keys because of the transponder chip required to be placed in the head. A transponder key must be programmed to a car for it to start, and the chip must be compatible with the vehicle make and model. Transponder car keys are common in vehicles made in 2000 or later.

These also contain a chip and must be programmed to a car for it to start. One step up from a transponder/chip key, it’s also called a “laser-cut key” because it must be cut on a special key cutter that cuts tracks into or on the outside of the key.

Also called “smart keys,” these are the future of car keys. PROX keys do not need to be pushed into a lock or ignition to start the car, as there is no ignition lock cylinder, but instead have a start button that enables you to start the car from the outside, as long as you’re in close proximity. A PROX key is detected by the car’s antennas. One of the most popular vehicles using a smart key today is the Toyota Prius.

These can be part of the actual key itself, as a series of buttons on the key head, or may be an entirely separate key fob, apart from the key itself. The exact design depends on the vehicle make, model and year.