7 Answer To Know About Keyless Cars (Before Getting One!)

Before we start, what are keyless cars?

Keyless cars is a rather new automotive solution that allows you to start your car engine without the aid of a key 

These kinds of cars are also called keyless start, smart key, or keyless push-button start.

You no longer have to search for your keys before driving out. So let’s get down to the specifics

How Do Keyless Cars Work?

Keyless cars as the name goes are cars that do not need a key to run. When you buy such cars, they come with a gadget called a “key fob”.

The cars can be turned on when the fob sends a low-frequency signal to the car.

Read Also: Affordable cars with keyless entry.

Powering a keyless car is also as seamless as opening it. As there is no need for a key, you can start the vehicle using a power button either on the dashboard.

Turning off the car is also very easy.

We see these keyfobs in many newer car models, including the Teslas:

Do Keyless Cars Have Steering Locks?

Many modern keyless cars have done away with traditional steering locks. This shift is a part of the broader move to electronic systems that enhance security and convenience.

However, it’s not a uniform practice across all manufacturers.

Some vehicles might still feature steering locks as an additional safeguard against theft. If you’re considering a keyless car and steering lock is a feature of interest, it would be best to refer to the specific vehicle’s manual or get in touch with the manufacturer for detailed information. It’s always good to be informed about your vehicle’s safety features.

Check Also: Where is the hood release positioned?

Can You Keep A Keyless Car Running?

Yes, you can keep a keyless car running even after the key fob has been removed from the vehicle.

The engine will not shut off immediately once the fob is out of range. This is designed for safety reasons, so the car doesn’t suddenly stop if the fob accidentally moves out of range while driving.

However, you won’t be able to restart the engine without the fob once you turn it off. It’s advised to always ensure that the key fob is inside the vehicle to prevent potential issues or inconveniences.

Can Keyless Cars Get Stolen?

Yes, keyless cars can get stolen. Despite the advanced technology and security features they come equipped with, thieves have also adapted, using sophisticated devices to intercept and mimic the signals from key fobs to gain unauthorized access to the vehicle.

This kind of theft, often referred to as “relay attack,” involves amplifying the signal from the key fob to trick the car into thinking the key is nearby, allowing the thief to unlock and start the vehicle.

It is always recommended to take additional security measures, such as using steering wheel locks or parking in well-lit areas to deter potential thieves.

Here are a few tips.

#1 Consider a steering lock:
Even if this may have been thought up by the hoodlums, it still gives you a few seconds or minutes to alert the authorities.

#2 Add a tracker:
Even if this will be a second option and won’t prevent the theft, it will still aid the authorities in recovering your car back to you.

A “relay attack” is a method that thieves use to exploit the vulnerabilities in the wireless communication system of keyless cars. Here’s how it generally works:

1. Signal Interception: The thieves use specialized devices to capture or intercept the signal emitted by the key fob. This is usually done with two individuals where one stands near the key (like outside the owner’s home) and the other near the car.
2. Signal Amplification: Once intercepted, this signal is then amplified or relayed to a second device near the car, making the car believe that the key fob is closer than it actually is, essentially extending the range of the key fob.
3. Unauthorized Access: With the car now thinking the key is in close proximity, the thieves can unlock the car and, in many instances, start the engine and drive away. This all can occur in just a matter of minutes.
4. Quick Execution: This kind of theft tends to be executed quickly, with the thieves having prior knowledge of the car’s location and the likely location of the keys inside the owner’s house.

To protect against relay attacks, car owners can consider storing their keys in a metal container or a signal-blocking pouch, which can block the signals emitted by the fob, making it harder for thieves to intercept the signal. It is also advised to use additional physical anti-theft devices like steering wheel locks to add an extra layer of security.

Can You Lock Your Keys In A Keyless Car?

This is dependent on the model of your car.

Locking your key in a keyless car is possible if:

• You leave the key fob in your trunk unknowingly.
• Your car has an automatic lock system when you shut the door.
• You lock it yourself through a small crack in your window, probably on purpose.

To avoid such, try to keep a spare key fob handy and ensure that you might have your key before closing the trunk.

Do Keyless Cars Have Batteries?

Yes, most mechanical devices are either electronic or battery powered.

Keyless cars have batteries as well as the key fob.

When the batteries on the transmitter die, they can be changed, but in a case where you are indisposed, here is what you should do:

#1 Open the door:
This may be tricky as the key fob is dead but doable. You can open the door by placing the key fob on the lock and then opening the door simultaneously.

Another way is to make use of the manual key that most car manufacturers make available. You can find it on the key fob, and it will raise the alarm.

However, that’s a small price to pay for getting into your car.

#2 Start the car:
Many car manufacturers make provision for backup car start method.

You can do this by touching the nose of the key fob on the push-start button, stepping on the brake and pressing the button simultaneously.
Keep trying it until it works.

You can also place the key fob on the steering or any other location close to the driver’s seat.

Final Thoughts

In summary, keyless cars turn off and lock with the aid of a remote keyless entry transmitter.

When considering buying one, be careful to make adequate inquiries as well as putting security measures in place.

Conclusively, keyless cars are stress-free to operate and would give you that much-needed feeling of satisfaction.

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