Keyless Entry - What is it?
Keyless entry is a convenient new technology which removes the need for a physical key to unlock your car doors and boot. But how exactly does keyless entry work, are there any drawbacks and is it right for you? We’ll answer all those questions in this guide.
How does keyless entry work?
Keyless car fobs contain an innovative technology that communicates with the vehicle when you’re in a specific range. Whether the fob is in your hand, bag or pocket, as long as you're within a certain range of your car, usually 5 metres, the car will sense this and unlock the doors.
It achieves this by searching for radio signals sent by your car, and if the fob is within range, it will send its own signal back to the car, and the internal computer will unlock the doors.
Some cars have keyless door handles that you’ll touch, where the car will then send out a signal to your fob. The fob will then send a code back to your car's onboard computer, and if the car recognises the code, the doors will unlock.
Some manufacturers even offer keyless entry by using your smartphone too. So you can unlock your car without even having a fob or key with you. BMW, Tesla and Ford are just some of the manufacturers who have introduced this feature.
Keyless boot entry systems are also available on some vehicles. Simply wiggle your foot under the car's rear bumper and the boot will automatically open, which is especially handy if you have a lot of shopping.
Keyless car entry problems
Many car owners have safety concerns when it comes to keyless car entry. Keyless car theft has and still continues to be a major issue. Thieves are able to use specialist equipment to boost the signal from your key fob, which then tricks your car into unlocking for them.
Prevent keyless car theft
1) Buy a Faraday bag
These are small pouches you store your key fob in that block it from emitting signals to your car.
2) Manually turn off your key fob
You’ll need to refer to your vehicle's handbook to see how to do this, as each may be different. If you can’t find information about how to manually switch your key fob off, either contact the dealership or the vehicle manufacturer.
3) Fit a steering wheel lock
4) Keep your key fob away from any windows or doors
As well as keyless car theft being an issue, the car can also still operate without the key fob once it is running. However, when it comes to restarting the engine once you’ve turned the car off, if you don’t have the key fob, you won’t be able to start the car again.
If you find your key fob stops working, our Platinum Plus RAC warranty protects cars that are 6 years old or less and have 60,000 miles or less. Find out more about our warranty packages by contacting us today at Bob Davies or if you’d like some more information on the keyless car models we offer.