Short answer: Not all car keys are the same, and knowing which type you have makes replacement and troubleshooting much easier.
Not all car keys are the same, and knowing which type you have makes replacement and troubleshooting much easier.
Older vehicles use a plain cut-metal key with no electronics. These are the cheapest to copy because any locksmith can cut them by the blade or by code without programming.
From the late 1990s on, most keys carry a chip that must match the car's immobilizer to start the engine. Remote-head keys combine that chip with lock and unlock buttons in a single molded key head.
Push-to-start vehicles use a fob you keep in your pocket while the car detects it. These are the most advanced to replace because they require programming to the vehicle and, in some cases, dealer-level equipment.
Older vehicles use a plain cut-metal key with no electronics. These are the cheapest to copy because any locksmith can cut them by the blade or by code without programming.
From the late 1990s on, most keys carry a chip that must match the car's immobilizer to start the engine. Remote-head keys combine that chip with lock and unlock buttons in a single molded key head.
Push-to-start vehicles use a fob you keep in your pocket while the car detects it. These are the most advanced to replace because they require programming to the vehicle and, in some cases, dealer-level equipment.
Call (877) 771-4458 and describe the situation, your exact location, and what you need. Timing is confirmed on that call rather than promised in advance.
Call for help: (877) 771-4458 — a straight answer and an honest estimate before any work begins.