Smart key: Difference between revisions
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==How it works== |
==How it works== |
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The smart key allows the driver to keep the [[Key (lock)#Car key| |
The smart key allows the driver to keep the [[Key (lock)#Car key|key fob]] in their pocket when unlocking, locking and starting the vehicle. The key is identified via a proximity [[sensor]] in the car door and a radio pulse generator in the key housing as soon as the driver is within approximately 1.5 meters (4.92 feet) of the vehicle. The vehicle is automatically unlocked as soon as the door handle (or trunk lid) is actuated. Some luxury vehicles have hidden the key cylinder behind a cover for styling. You don't need a key cylinder unless the batteries on the key fob are dead. For when this happens, there is a conventional key hidden inside the key fob. Cars usually have a backup key cylinder on the driver's door or even also on the passenger door. Cars with hidden key cylinders have covers that can be removed to use the cylinder if necessary, and can be replaced after. |
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The smart key system also means that the [[steering]] is released and the [[Ignition system|ignition]] is activated electronically without inserting the key in the ignition. The driver must have the key with them inside the car before the engine can be started by pressing down on the brake pedal and then either pressing a starter button or twisting an ignition switch, depending on the car model. When leaving a vehicle equipped with smart key, it suffices to merely press the small locking button on the driver's door handle in order to lock the vehicle. |
The smart key system also means that the [[steering]] is released and the [[Ignition system|ignition]] is activated electronically without inserting the key in the ignition. The driver must have the key with them inside the car before the engine can be started by pressing down on the brake pedal and then either pressing a starter button or twisting an ignition switch, depending on the car model. When leaving a vehicle equipped with smart key, it suffices to merely press the small locking button on the driver's door handle in order to lock the vehicle. |
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Revision as of 14:26, 30 April 2010
 | This article needs additional citations for verification. (January 2008) |
Smart key is an electronic access and authorization system which is available as an option or standard in several cars. It was first used by Mercedes-Benz in 1999.[1]
How it works
The smart key allows the driver to keep the key fob in their pocket when unlocking, locking and starting the vehicle. The key is identified via a proximity sensor in the car door and a radio pulse generator in the key housing as soon as the driver is within approximately 1.5 meters (4.92 feet) of the vehicle. The vehicle is automatically unlocked as soon as the door handle (or trunk lid) is actuated. Some luxury vehicles have hidden the key cylinder behind a cover for styling. You don't need a key cylinder unless the batteries on the key fob are dead. For when this happens, there is a conventional key hidden inside the key fob. Cars usually have a backup key cylinder on the driver's door or even also on the passenger door. Cars with hidden key cylinders have covers that can be removed to use the cylinder if necessary, and can be replaced after.
The smart key system also means that the steering is released and the ignition is activated electronically without inserting the key in the ignition. The driver must have the key with them inside the car before the engine can be started by pressing down on the brake pedal and then either pressing a starter button or twisting an ignition switch, depending on the car model. When leaving a vehicle equipped with smart key, it suffices to merely press the small locking button on the driver's door handle in order to lock the vehicle.
Some manufacturers allow driver's memory seat positions to be automatically adjusted based on the module used to unlock the car, which means that seat positions, steering wheel adjustments (if electrically adjusted) exterior mirror settings, climate control temperature settings and stereo preferences can be automatically engaged just by unlocking the car.
Nomenclature
Manufacturers use keyless authorization systems under different names:
- Acura: Keyless Access System
- Audi: Advanced Key
- BMW: Comfort Access
- Cadillac: Adaptive Remote Start & Keyless Access
- Ford: Intelligent Access with push-button start
- General Motors: Passive Entry Passive Start
- Hyundai: Proximity Key
- Infiniti: Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition
- Jaguar Cars: Smart Key System
- Jeep Sentry Key Immobiliser System "SKIS"
- KIA: Keyless Entry
- Lexus: SmartAccess System
- Lincoln: Intelligent Access System
- Mazda: Advanced Keyless Entry & Start System
- Mercedes-Benz: Keyless Go integrated into SmartKeys
- Mini: Comfort Access
- Mitsubishi Motors: FastKey
- Nissan: Intelligent Key
- Porsche: Porsche Entry & Drive System
- Renault: Hands Free Keycard
- Ssang Yong: Smart Key System
- Subaru: Keyless Smart Entry With Push-Button Start
- Suzuki: SmartPass Keyless entry & starting system
- Toyota: Smart Key System
- Volkswagen: Keyless Entry & Keyless Start or KESSY
- Volvo: Personal Car Communicator "PCC" and Keyless Drive or Keyless Drive
Insurance standard
In 2005, the UK motor insurance research expert Thatcham introduced a standard for keyless entry, requiring the device to be inoperable at a distance of more than 10 cm from the vehicle. In an independent test, the Nissan Micra's system was found to be the most secure, while certain BMW and Mercedes keys failed, being theoretically capable of allowing cars to be driven away while their owners were refueling.[2] This isn't really a problem for Toyota, Lexus and Mercedes keys however, as the car can determine the key's location (inside, right side, left side, rear of car, or even in the trunk/boot) and act appropriately; the car will not start if the key is determined to be outside the car.[citation needed]