Advanced Key

Advanced key or keyless entry is the electronic access and authorization system which is available as an option in several cars. It was created by Mercedes-Benz in 1999. [ [http://www.whatcar.com/news-special-report.aspx?NA=220074&EL=3159895 What Car?: Keyless entry] ]

How it works

The advanced key allows the driver to keep the car key in their pocket when unlocking and starting the automobile. 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 metres 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. When this happens, there is a conventional key hidden inside the key fob. Cars usually have a backup key cylinder on the drivers 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 put back on after.

The advanced key system also means that the steering is released and the ignition turned on electronically and 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 followed by pressing either a starter button or twisting an ignition switch, depending on the car model. When leaving a vehicle equipped with advanced key, it merely suffices to press the small locking button on the driver's door handle in order to lock the vehicle.

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
* General Motors: Passive Entry Passive Start
* Hyundai: Proximity Key
* Infiniti: Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition
* Jaguar Cars: Smart Key System
* Lexus: SmartAccess System
* Lincoln: Intelligent Access System
* Mazda: Advanced Keyless Entry & Start System
* Mercedes-Benz: Keyless Go integrated into SmartKeys
* Mitsubishi Motors: FastKey
* Nissan: Intelligent Key
* Porsche: Porsche Entry & Drive System
* Renault: Hands free keyless entry
* Ssang Yong: Smart Key System
* Suzuki: SmartPass Keyless entry & starting system
* Toyota: Smart Key System
* Volvo: Personal Car Communicator "PCC" and Keyless Drive

Insurance standard

In 2005, the UK motor insurance research expert [http://www.thatcham.org/home.jsp?ugid=2 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. [ [http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/autoexpressnews/58364/micras_top_of_the_fobs.html Auto Express: Micra's Top of the Fobs] ] This isn't really a problem for 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.

ee also

Remote keyless entry

References