Losing Your Car Keys-The Problem With Smart Keys

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

27 Jan 2007 11:38 AM

If you own a new car then you are likely familiar with smart keys, which are equipped with a computer chip. Do you own a set? If you do then you may agree that these so-called smart keys aren't very smart at all. Then again, perhaps I am the one who needs a shot of intelligence (or at the very least an injection of memory enhancers).

I have found that if you lose a smart key it will cost you--- a LOT! Luckily I am not the only miffed about having to shell out big bucks to get a replacement. Getting new smart keys cost so much that one consumer group is trying to convince car manufacturers to get rid of the high-tech keys.

The issue: the key has a computerized chip so typically even if you call a dozen locksmiths, you'll get the same answer. We can't help you. Locksmiths will tell you that the key is equipped with a special system that only the dealer can replace. Which means you are out of luck if you get locked out of your car in December in North Dakota.

Even workers at AAA who admit lockouts are now one of the most common calls for assistance say they can't help with many of the newer keys. According a local AAA manager I spoke to, the auto industry won't release the codes in the new keys. Which means your only option is to go to the auto company itself and buy a new key at 10-to-20 times the cost of a traditional mechanical key.

Enter the Center for Auto Safety. The group is currently petitioning the federal trade commission to look into the problem. The Center maintains auto companies have a monopoly on the smart keys because they won't release the codes to local locksmiths, thus holding forgetful drivers hostage.

Car manufacturers responded to the claims by saying that the codes are kept under lock and key to protect drivers. They say that while there is some inconvenience involved when you lose a key and have to get the key reprogrammed, it pales in comparison to the inconvenience of having your vehicle stolen.

So what about a key compromise? Carmakers say they are trying to work with locksmith groups to devise a way that codes can be made available to anyone who's interested and who has passed the security clearances they've devised. In the meantime, I am exploring the method of keyless entry-- unlocking the car with your phone or another wireless device... and considering wearing my key around my neck.

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Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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Valorie Delp (49340) 27 Jan 2007 11:08 AM

As someone who has had their vehicle stolen. . .twice, I would have to agree that replacing an expensive key is much less inconvenient than having your car stolen. But they have Master Key locks for doors. . .you have to have a special card that reads like a credit card to replace your keys if you loose it. If you loose the key AND the card. . .you're out of luck. . .it's a gazillion dollars to replace. But you're right. . .you're smart key is not so smart!

Julie Gentry (5915) 27 Jan 2007 12:29 PM

I got a keyfinder for Christmas. Whistle and it whistles back to you. Much better than having the chip! The only problem is that whenever my son talks near it, it goes off because his voice is changing ;-). Can you opt out of the smart key when you buy the vehicle? Or is it the only key possible?

Michele Cheplic (37236) 27 Jan 2007 10:34 PM

Car stolen twice?! Hopefully it wasn't from the same spot. That happened to my brother in Honolulu. A Honda in Honolulu=instant theft.

Julie, great question, but I didn't know about the trouble with the key until after... oh well.

Valorie Delp (49340) 28 Jan 2007 08:37 AM

Well. . .we only park our car in our neighborhood so not exactly the same spot but on the same block. . .well lit, with a club. But this is why we keep very used cars and don't even bother getting something that looks nice.