Buying Auto Parts: Keyless Entry & Remote Starters

If you have purchased a car in the last few years, more than likely you have a keyless entry system, and may have a remote starter. When you purchased your car, you may have received your set of keys along with a plastic fob with several buttons. One of these buttons will unlock your car door, and another will lock it.

How these Auto Parts Work

This device works by sending signals from a radio transmitted with a code that tells the car door what to do. When you press the button on the key fob, you are turning the transmitter on and sending the code. The receiver, which is in the car, is tuned to that frequency and picks up the signal with the code, then unlocks your car. Your garage door opener works on this same principal, and this means that your keyless entry will have a limited range.

The remote starter also has a limited range, although you should be able to start your car from your home. This is a great ability to have during cold weather and hot weather as well—on hot days you can simply start your car before you leave and have it ready for you to turn on the air conditioner when you get in. Remember to use common sense safety when using remote starters. For instance, don’t start the car when it’s in an enclosed space like a garage; don’t leave the starter within reach of children; don’t leave your remote starter with a valet or parking attendant. However, also remember that because the car can’t be put in gear driven until the key is in the ignition, it is just as safe as if it had not been started.

Keyless entry is another matter, though, when it comes to auto theft. If you open your door from a distance it’s almost like leaving it unlocked even though you aren’t far from it. If you unlock it from an office building or home and end up in a chat with someone, this gives a thief time to enter without the delay of having to break a window or pick the lock.

Keep in Mind ...

Still, if your car is locked most of the time you are still better off than the folks who never lock cars. Every 20 seconds a car is stolen in the United States, and some of those have perfectly good locks engaged, and some even have alarm systems turned on.