There are advances and changes in the automobile industry every year. One of those shifts involves keys; car keys come in various shapes and sizes. They range from mechanical cut keys to smart keys that can unlock and even start your Toyota car without inserting it into the ignition.

This article will discuss various types of car keys, and it will also serve as a guide for changing your Toyota key fob.

Mechanical keys

Many cars had mechanical keys, but that is now a thing of the past. Today, you can find these keys in houses and lockers or in basic or old cars to unlock only.

Mechanical keys do not have any security features, so they are now discarded for cars. They are made of metal, so anyone can make a copy and access your vehicle.

Remote keys

Remote keys, as the name suggests, are battery-operated. They are generally used for locking and unlocking your car from a distance. It usually uses an infrared signal or a radio transmitter to control your car. They can also manage your car’s alarm system. Remote keys are one of the most common car keys used nowadays.

Smart keys

A smart Toyota key controls everything from unlocking your car to starting it without inserting it into the ignition. However, you need to be inside your car for the latter part. When you push the button, your car recognizes the signal and starts automatically. As evident, this type of key runs on battery.

Transponder keys

Transponder keys are some of the most common car keys you’ll encounter. A transponder key is like a mechanical key, except that it contains electronics in the head that communicate with your vehicle to confirm that the key is valid. Transponder keys require programming to function, so a locksmith or dealer’s assistance is necessary.

Flip keys

Typically, flip keys are high-security or laser-cut keys that tuck into remote heads when not in use. However, the cut key flips out in this one and remains attached once the release button is pressed. A separate emergency key is provided, which is entirely independent.

These keys combine the functions of an ignition key with a key fob. As with any transponder key, whether you can program it yourself or not depends mainly on your vehicle’s make, model, and year.

How to change the Toyota key fob battery?

So here’s a guide for changing your Toyota key fob. Their batteries are so easy to replace that even you can do it yourself. You just need to go through your manual carefully so that you don’t make any mistakes. Also, check out which car battery you need. Almost all Toyota key fobs have CR 2032 3V batteries.

You can easily get your Toyota key fob replaced if you’ve lost or damaged it. Just contact your nearest Toyota service center. It will cost around $200 to $350 for a Toyota fob replacement.

Conclusion

Hopefully, now you know all about different types of car keys and how to change your key fob. Make sure you choose a secure car key such as a remote, flip, or smart key so that no one dares to steal your car.