A physical blade operates a matching lock
The metal blade is the part that fits a compatible physical lock. It may be fixed, fold into a case or be stored inside another key design.
Do not assume that a blade is the whole starting system. A vehicle may also need to recognise electronics in the key. Equally, buying a new shell or an uncut blade does not necessarily supply those electronics.
- Say whether you need access, starting or both.
- Keep a damaged key or its loose pieces for assessment.
- Do not force a blade that is stiff or does not fit.
A transponder is part of electronic key recognition
Where fitted, the vehicle’s immobiliser system must recognise the key before allowing the relevant starting function. This is why correctly cutting a blade and preparing the electronics are separate questions.
You do not need to identify the exact transponder yourself. Give us the vehicle details and describe the key you use. A photograph helps explain its design, but appearance alone is not a compatibility check.
Remote buttons and proximity functions are different
A remote key has buttons for supported functions such as locking and unlocking. A smart or proximity key can support particular functions while the key is nearby. The features depend on the vehicle and its equipment.
The same unit may contain remote controls, a transponder and an emergency blade. When something stops working, describe each function separately: remote locking may behave differently from starting. That detail is useful when deciding between assessment, repair and replacement.
Key cards and phone access need their own checks
Some vehicles use a card rather than a conventional fob. Renault’s handbook is one example of a card with its own battery and operating instructions. Use the instructions for the specific card and vehicle.
Phone-based access also depends on the manufacturer, vehicle equipment and account setup. Ford expressly says its app’s remote commands are not a substitute for carrying the vehicle key. An app that unlocks a car should not automatically be treated as a replacement driving key.
Choose a catalogue option with us
Compare the listed model, year and key type with your current setup. Tell us which functions you want and whether any working key remains. We will check the proposed option for your vehicle before arranging the work.
If the terms are unfamiliar, send a key photograph with your registration and postcode. A clear enquiry is more useful than choosing a technical label by guesswork.
Common questions
Is a remote key always a smart key?
No. Remote buttons and proximity functions are different features. Tell us whether you normally press buttons, insert a key or start with a key nearby.
Can I identify the key system from the casing?
The casing can help describe the key, but it does not establish the electronics or compatibility. Vehicle details and the proposed specification still need checking.
Sources and further reading
These sources support the general guidance. For vehicle operating instructions, use the handbook for your exact model and year.