What is a Keyless Entry?
Walk up and the car unlocks itself — no key needed
Simplified animation — not to scale.
In plain English
Keyless entry lets you unlock and start your car without ever taking the key fob out of your pocket or bag. As long as the fob is close enough to the vehicle, the doors unlock when you touch the handle and the engine starts with a button press.
"Think of it like a VIP door at a nightclub. The bouncer has a list, and when a recognised guest walks near, the rope opens automatically. You do not need to show your ticket every time — your presence is enough."
How it works
Your key fob constantly emits a very low-power radio signal. When you approach the car, antennas hidden in the door handles and around the body pick up this signal and wake the system. Touching the door handle sends a challenge code to the fob, which replies with an encrypted response. If the codes match, the doors unlock. To start the engine, the fob must be inside the cabin so the interior antennas can verify its presence before the start button will work.
Signs of trouble
- ⚠Car not unlocking when you touch the handle
- ⚠Key fob battery dying frequently
- ⚠System not detecting the fob even when it is in your hand
- ⚠Car allowing the engine to start but the fob is outside the vehicle
- ⚠Warning light on the dash saying "key not detected"
£110 to £330 total; dealer programming often required
Always get a written quote. Prices vary by car, region, and parts brand.