
Type 1: Basic metal key. No electronics. A simple cut blade that turns the ignition cylinder mechanically. Found on pre-2000 vehicles and some utility trucks. Cheapest to replace ($75-$120).
Type 2: Transponder key. Metal blade with a radio chip embedded in the plastic key head. The chip communicates with the car's immobilizer. Found on nearly every vehicle from 2000 onward. Mid-range cost ($120-$200).
Type 3: Remote head key. A transponder key with built-in remote buttons for lock/unlock/trunk. The key blade still inserts into the ignition, but the remote functions are integrated into the key head. Common on 2005-2015 vehicles. $150-$250.
Type 4: Smart key (proximity fob). No insertable blade (or a hidden emergency blade). The fob stays in your pocket. Walk up, grab the door handle, push the start button. The car detects the fob wirelessly. Found on most 2015+ vehicles. $200-$350.
Type 5: Switchblade key. A transponder key with a blade that folds into the key body like a pocket knife. Common on VW, Audi, Kia, Hyundai. Functionally the same as a remote head key with a fold-out design. $150-$250.
Look at your current key. Does it have buttons? Does it fold? Does it have a blade at all? Call us with your year, make, and model - we identify the exact key type and quote you in under 60 seconds.





Physical blade creation. Standard edge-cut and laser (sidewinder) methods.

Transponder chip sync to your vehicle's immobilizer computer.

Complete new key from scratch. No original required. VIN-based available.

Copy an existing key. Blade and transponder duplicated together.
