Keyless cars are designed to be more secure, and harder for criminals to steal. These days, it’s like two-factor authentication for your car. But can you lock yourself out of a keyless car? We’ve all done it once with older car models, having to fish out keys and unlock your car with a clothes hanger – or call a locksmith on the spot. The answer depends on the type of vehicle and your keyless entry system. Here’s why it’s (almost) impossible to lock yourself out of a keyless car, but why it’s also still possible under some circumstances.
Can You Lock Yourself Out of a Keyless Car?
Mostly, No
Authentication is digital and quick, using an electronic key fob. This allows you to lock or unlock the doors of your car or start your vehicle without a physical key. Keyless entry works by transmitting low-frequency signals between the key fob and the vehicle’s computer system.
Manufacturers design cars to lock, unlock, or start the engine when the key isn’t inside the car. Older models lack this feature, making it more likely that you could lock your keys inside. When keys are inside the car, most cars won’t lock, and you have to retrieve the key.
However, if you leave your car locked and lose the key fob, you might be locked out. That’s a problem for your vehicle manufacturer. They can issue a new programmed digital key fob – but only if you can provide them with proof that you own the car.
Yes, If:
Car manufacturers design modern keyless cars to prevent drivers from locking their keys inside. It’s one of the most common key issues. Also, it’s the first problem modern cars and intelligent vehicles want to eliminate.
Modern cars won’t lock the car doors when the keys are picked up as being inside the car. However, if you lose the key fob with the car already locked, you may need a replacement key.
There are other exceptions to the rule where locking yourself out of a keyless car is still possible.
Older Keyless Cars
Older models don’t have the newest protective features. This includes cars that won’t lock with the electronic fob inside. Some older keyless cars might still lock even when keys are inside, or keys might malfunction and lock the car.
Get a replacement key if this is your problem.
Keyless Cars And Automatic Locking Systems
Some keyless cars have automatic locking systems, which engage the car’s locking system regardless of where the driver is. These models might still automatically lock the vehicle. If you hear the locking click and can’t find the key, you might need to call the vehicle’s manufacturer or a locksmith.
Keys Through Window
There’s one more unlikely means through which you could lock yourself out of a keyless vehicle. If you leave windows open and throw the key through after the car is locked, you would have successfully locked yourself out – and no, the mechanism wouldn’t “read” the key fob.
That’s unlikely, but yes, still possible!
Leaving Keys in the Back Of A Keyless Car
Some locking mechanisms will only refuse to lock your car if the keys are in an obvious place. That may be the front or back seat. Key fobs constantly send out radio signals, but If your keys are in the trunk, the frequency signals might not read that they’re anywhere close and still lock the car!
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