What is Keyless Entry - Okey DoKey Locksmith
Keyless entry and smart key systems allow a driver to access and start a vehicle without physically inserting the main key into a door lock or ignition. A small electronic proximity key communicates wirelessly with the vehicle, allowing equipped vehicles to recognize an authorized key while it remains in a pocket, purse, or bag.
Depending on the vehicle, a proximity smart key can unlock the doors when the driver approaches or touches the door handle and authorize the engine to start when the key is detected inside the vehicle. Most smart keys also contain remote-control buttons and a concealed mechanical emergency key.
Manufacturers use different names for this technology, including Intelligent Key, Intelligent Access, Keyless Access, and Smart Key. Although the terminology varies, these systems generally combine keyless vehicle access with electronic authorization for starting the engine.
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What Is a Keyless Entry Smart Key?
A smart key, also known as a proximity key, is an electronic automotive key designed to communicate with the vehicle without requiring the driver to physically insert the main key into the ignition.
With an equipped vehicle, the driver can generally keep the smart key in a pocket or bag. When the vehicle detects an authorized key nearby, it can permit certain operations such as unlocking a door. When the correct key is detected inside the vehicle, the system can authorize push-button starting.
A smart key should not be confused with a completely "key-free" vehicle. The electronic device itself is still the key—it simply communicates with the vehicle differently from a traditional mechanical ignition key.
How Does a Smart Key Work?
A proximity key system uses electronic communication between the smart key and the vehicle. When an authorized key is within the appropriate range, the vehicle can recognize its presence.
On vehicles equipped with passive entry, the driver may be able to unlock the door by touching or operating the door handle while carrying the smart key. The vehicle verifies that an authorized key is nearby before permitting access.
For starting, the vehicle checks for an authorized key inside the passenger compartment. If the correct key is detected and the other starting conditions are satisfied, the driver can start the engine using the start button or electronic ignition control.
This process takes place electronically and normally requires no physical contact between the main smart key and the ignition.
Different Names for Smart Key Systems
Vehicle manufacturers use different names for their proximity and keyless-entry technologies. Examples include:
- Nissan Intelligent Key
- Acura Keyless Access System
- Jeep Keyless Enter-N-Go
- Ford Intelligent Access
- Infiniti Intelligent Key
- Kia Smart Key System
Although manufacturers use their own terminology and system designs, these names generally describe technologies that allow the vehicle to electronically recognize an authorized key without requiring conventional key insertion.
Smart Key vs. Key Fob
The terms key fob and smart key are often used interchangeably, but there is a useful distinction between a conventional remote fob and a proximity key.
A conventional key fob commonly requires the driver to press a button to send a lock, unlock, trunk, or panic command to the vehicle.
A smart key adds proximity detection. The vehicle can recognize the authorized key nearby without requiring the driver to press the unlock button every time. This is what enables features such as passive entry and push-button starting.
Most smart keys also contain ordinary remote buttons, so the same device can function as both a proximity key and a remote key fob.
Push-to-Start Ignition
One of the most recognizable features associated with a smart key is push-button start.
Instead of inserting a metal key into an ignition cylinder, the driver carries the authorized proximity key inside the vehicle and operates a start button or electronic ignition switch.
The vehicle checks for the presence of an authorized key before permitting the engine to start. This electronic authorization serves a similar security purpose to the transponder system used with many conventional ignition keys, although the way the driver interacts with the system is different.
Emergency Key Blade
Many proximity keys contain a small emergency key blade concealed inside the smart-key housing. The blade provides a mechanical backup for accessing the vehicle when normal electronic entry is unavailable.
The driver's door may contain a visible mechanical cylinder or one concealed behind a cover. The emergency blade can be removed from the smart key and used with the appropriate mechanical lock.
The emergency blade should not be confused with the electronics that authorize engine starting. On a push-to-start vehicle, mechanically unlocking the door does not necessarily mean the emergency blade itself can start the engine.
What Happens When the Smart Key Battery Dies?
A weak or dead smart-key battery can prevent normal remote functions or reduce the distance at which the vehicle detects the key. This does not necessarily mean that the entire smart key needs to be replaced.
Many vehicles provide a backup procedure for recognizing the key when its battery is weak. Depending on the vehicle, this can involve placing or holding the smart key at a designated location so the vehicle can detect its transponder or backup electronic function.
The exact procedure differs between vehicles, so the owner's manual should be consulted for the manufacturer's instructions.
If electronic door entry is unavailable, the concealed emergency key blade may provide mechanical access to the vehicle.
Smart Key Replacement
Replacing a proximity key requires the correct electronic key for the vehicle. Two smart keys that look nearly identical may not necessarily be interchangeable.
Compatibility can depend on the year, make, model, electronic system, and identifying information associated with the remote. When buying a replacement, verify the application rather than relying only on the appearance or button arrangement.
Replacement smart keys can be obtained from automotive locksmiths, vehicle dealerships, and automotive key suppliers. You can also see our buy keys online guide for additional replacement-key options.
If the smart key contains an emergency blade, that blade may also need to be cut for the vehicle.
Smart Key Programming
A replacement proximity key generally must be electronically associated with the intended vehicle before it can function as an authorized smart key.
Smart key programming requirements vary by manufacturer, model, year, and immobilizer system. Depending on the vehicle, specialized automotive key-programming or diagnostic equipment may be required.
Programming the electronic smart key and cutting its emergency blade are separate operations. A correctly programmed smart key can still have an uncut emergency blade, while a correctly cut blade does not by itself authorize push-button starting.
An automotive locksmith or vehicle dealership may be able to supply and program a compatible replacement.
What If You Lose Your Smart Key?
If you still have another working proximity key, making a duplicate car key before the remaining key is lost can help avoid an all keys lost situation.
If every smart key has been lost, a replacement can still be made for many vehicles. The correct replacement key must be identified and programmed to the vehicle. When an emergency blade is included, the blade may also need to be originated and cut.
Okey DoKey Locksmith Houston provides mobile car key replacement for supported makes and models. Mobile service can allow a new proximity key to be supplied and programmed at the vehicle without first towing it to a dealership.
Smart Key FAQ
Is a smart key the same as keyless entry?
They are closely related, but the terms describe different aspects of the system. Keyless entry refers to accessing the vehicle electronically, while a smart or proximity key can provide passive entry as well as electronic authorization for push-button starting.
Does a smart key have a transponder?
Modern smart keys contain electronic identification used by the vehicle's security system. Many also provide a backup method that allows the vehicle to recognize the key when the normal proximity function is unavailable.
Can I start the car if the smart-key battery dies?
Many vehicles provide a manufacturer-designed backup procedure for starting when the smart-key battery is weak or dead. The procedure varies by vehicle and should be confirmed in the owner's manual.
Why is there a metal key inside my smart key?
The concealed metal blade is an emergency key. It provides mechanical access on vehicles equipped with a corresponding door lock if normal electronic entry is unavailable.
Can a locksmith replace a proximity key?
An automotive locksmith with the appropriate keys and programming equipment may be able to replace and program smart keys for supported vehicles.
Does a new smart key need programming?
A replacement smart key must be recognized as an authorized key by the intended vehicle. The procedure required to accomplish this varies by vehicle and key system.
