What Is Keyless Entry
Keyless entry is a quick and convenient way of gaining access to and locking your car, without having to use your key. Most modern cars from the last 15 years are now equipped with this new technology, and the most common type of keyless entry today is called passive keyless entry.
How keyless entry works
Passive keyless entry enables you to lock, unlock, and start your vehicle without ever needing to handle your key. All you need to do is keep it close to the vehicle, whether in your pocket or a bag.
When the motorist approaches their vehicle, a radio transponder chip embedded in the car key recognises them. The doors unlock and open when the driver pulls the handle. By pressing a button on the dashboard, the engine can be started. Some vehicles also include keyless boot access, which allows you to open the boot by shaking your foot under the bumper where the sensors are located.
It's just as simple to lock the car when you get out. The motorist simply presses a button on the door handle, while some cars automatically lock when you walk out of range.
How safe is keyless entry?
Many people worry their vehicle is more prone to theft with keyless entry, however in theory, without the key fob, the car can’t be stolen. This is because the car’s internal computer (ICU) can only recognise the code from the driver’s specific key fob.
Some manufacturers are now including technology that should prevent keyless car theft, such as a ‘sleep’ mode that prevents the key’s signal from being transmitted if it’s not used for a few minutes.
Owners can also fit a steering wheel lock as a second line of defence against thieves who were able to overcome keyless security.
Can keyless entry be turned off?
With the majority of vehicles, the wireless signals emitted from the fob can be turned off. How you do it will depend on the vehicle you have though, but this information should be available in your vehicle’s manual.
If you can’t find the information here, contact the dealership you bought the car from or contact the manufacturer.
What to do when keyless entry doesn’t work
The most likely cause of your keyless entry not working is a dead battery in the fob. You can check which battery you need either in the owner's manual or by opening up the fob and seeing which number is engraved on its surface. CR2025 or CR2032 batteries are commonly used in car key remotes, while CR1620, CR1632, and other batteries are also used in some.
Broken battery contacts or a difficulty with the buttons are two other possibilities. It's also possible that your car has forgotten about your key fob, in which case you'll need to reprogram it.
You can read this article to learn what to do in the event of these other problems.