Car keys: types and features

The car key differs significantly from the usual door key. It not only opens the car doors, but also activates the engine. There are models of car keys, equipped with additional functionality: they allow you to open the car at a distance and even start the engine without inserting the key into the ignition.

Types of car keys

Car keys differ in size, type of cutters and the presence of an immobilizer. The main types are:

• With a rotary mechanism - in the body is placed a transponder chip. This key opens the door lock and activates the motor. There are no additional functions.
• With a kick-out mechanism - the metal part of the key is movable. Can be hidden in the case, which protects the key from breakage. There are models with radio transmitter and transponder.
• A key with a chip looks like a plastic handle with a built-in chip and a button controlling the central locking. The module sends a signal which is received by the immobilizer. A matching check is made and if it is successful, the engine starts. It is possible to open the lock and activate the engine from a distance.
• Smart key. The device contains microchips which transmit an encrypted code to the car's onboard computer. The smart key acts contactless or is inserted into a special slot.
• Key-fish for Mercedes with security system. In normal mode, works with the buttons. There is a mechanical part for emergency opening the car.

Features of some types of car keys

If you use a mechanical key and a key fob immobilizer, then to start the car, you need to bring the key fob to a special device for reading. It disables the immobilizer, and then you can key in the engine. If you lose the key fob, you can not start the car.

Chip in the key is the most popular model of auto keys. It's a spread key in the form of an alarm keychain with a built-in power element - a flat battery. It is convenient because the metal part of the key is hidden in the case. Therefore, it does not scratch things, does not tear pockets, etc.

Chip card is the most innovative version of the car key. It represents a flat card, similar to a business card, only thicker. It has a built-in chip. It is inserted into a special compartment on the panel. To start the engine, the driver just press the start/stop button on the panel. Such systems do not have the usual ignition switch.

Features of a modern chip card:

• increased range;
• There are models where the owner does not need to take out the card to open the car door (it is triggered at a distance). But in some systems, it must be attached to a special slot;
• very difficult to forge - the code is unique for each pair of cars and chip cards.

The chip card may have a built-in chip key. It is necessary if the electronics fail. However, such a combination significantly reduces security.

Which keys are better depends on personal preferences and security requirements. Chip key is most often used - affordable and convenient. If you want to increase security to the maximum and allow financial resources, choose a chip card. But you have to be very careful with it. If you damage or lose the chip card, it is difficult and expensive to restore it or make a new one