By Timothy Albrite
Do you remember the car keys from your childhood? They were simple metal keys with a long blade that was etched with grooves and a uniquely shaped edge.
The process of starting a car was simple; you slip a metallic key into the ignition, give it a twist, and the engine purrs to life. Back then, these keys were more like everyday tools, easily copied at your local hardware.
But oh, how times have changed! Car keys have evolved dramatically, and the changes are significant.
History of Car Keys
The introduction of car keys during the 1940s marked a turning point in the history of automobiles. It was during this era that the key ignition system was first debuted, with Chrysler’s 1949 model being credited as the pioneer.
Prior to this revolutionary innovation, starting a car did not involve the use of keys, but rather a typical handle that generated current. Vehicles were also secured using cylinder locks that resembled those found on doors.
Fast forward to the 1990s and the game-changing concept of centralized locking was introduced, transforming car keys as we knew them.
Today, car keys have undergone a series of changes that have improved their functionality and security. Read on for a detailed overview of how car keys have evolved over the years.
The Mechanical Key Era (1949-1980)
Back in the day, car keys were about as simple as they come—just a piece of metal with the power to ignite an engine. Those were the times when a key could open not just your car, but your neighbour’s as well! It was a different world, where even your school van driver might borrow a key from another van and whisk you off to school.
The keys were also easy to duplicate, making it easier for thieves to steal cars.
Enter the Transponder Key (1980s)
The introduction of transponder keys in the 1980s, included a small chip in the key that communicated with the car’s ignition. This made it harder to steal cars. Without the chip, the car wouldn’t start. But it also made it harder to start your car if you lost the key.
Remote Door Openers (1980s-1990s)
Later, keyless entry remotes became popular. These remotes were used exclusively to open and close car doors remotely, which was not only a convenience but also a luxury feature.
Laser Cut Keys (1990s)
Precision became the name of the game with laser-cut keys. They were precisely cut by a laser, making them much harder to replicate.
With these keys, you had to go to a car locksmith or dealership to have a duplicate made.
Security tightened, and so did your connection to your keys.
The Key Remote Combo (Early 90s)
In the early 90s, the key remote combo was born.
Instead of having a key and a separate remote for keyless entry, you had both in one. The remote features were included at the head of the key, and the laser-cut blade stuck out like normal. Not only did these keys require professionals to replicate, but they also had to be properly programmed to ensure the use of remote features.
The Era of Fobs and Proximity Keys
The fob or proximity key is what is popular on today’s vehicles, and it represents the most advanced key technology we have yet. These don’t look like keys at all.
They look like small remotes that have buttons on them for locking and unlocking the doors, setting the alarm, and even remotely unlocking the rear door.
Fob keys have to be close to the ignition to turn on the vehicle, which you do simply by pushing a button. These keys have advanced programming inside, which means that if you lose them, you have to call an emergency car locksmith who can provide a new fob and program it specifically to your vehicle’s codes.
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The evolution of car keys has taken place over many years, and it’s fascinating to see how they have become more complex and powerful.
Modern car keys are designed to be more convenient, advanced, and user-friendly, embedded with several other functions.
From the earliest key ignition system in automobiles that debuted in the 1940s to smart key fobs introduced in 2016, car manufacturers have been focusing on creating more convenient, advanced, and user-friendly car keys.
And, with the latest technology, such as the mobile app introduced by Tesla, the future of car keys is full of possibilities. So, the next time you use your car key, remember that it’s more than just a tiny piece of metal. It’s a complex and powerful tool that has come a long way since its inception, and it will continue to evolve with the times.