Keyless Entry vs Smart Keyless Entry: What's The Difference?

Car technology is taking big leaps with each passing day as more and more research and developments keep on giving new additions. A result of all this innovation is the keyless entry systems which is now increasingly becoming common in the new age cars. But then, what is the Smart keyless entry system? Aren't these two the same? Well, they are not. While the Smart system is a more comprehensive update to the regular system, they have their fair share of differences. Read on to find out how exactly these are distinct, but before that, make sure you are a part of our 91Wheels Whatsapp Channel, specifically curated for all avid petrolheads like us, to never miss out on any automotive updates.

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Keyless Entry vs. Smart Keyless Entry: What's the Difference?

The evolution of car security and convenience has brought us from physical keys to remote fobs, and then to sophisticated keyless systems. But within this realm, there's a distinction worth understanding, which is the keyless entry and smart entry system. While both offer a degree of hands-free convenience, they operate with different levels of sophistication and security.  

Keyless Entry: The Remote Revolution

Traditional keyless entry, often simply referred to as 'remote keyless entry,' revolutionized how we interact with our cars. This system relies on a key fob that transmits radio frequency (RF) signals to the vehicle. By pressing buttons on the fob, you can remotely lock or unlock doors, and sometimes even activate the alarm or trunk release. While convenient, this system requires you to physically press a button, and its security can be vulnerable to signal interception and replay attacks. And this is when the need for smarter key fobs was raised and then the next step came in.

Smart Keyless Entry: Proximity and Intelligence

Smart keyless entry, a step above the keyless entry, takes convenience and security to the next level. This system uses a combination of RF and low-frequency signals to detect the presence of the key fob within a certain proximity to the vehicle. Instead of pressing buttons, the car automatically unlocks when you approach and locks when you walk away. This hands-free operation is a significant advantage, especially when your hands are full.  

Furthermore, smart systems often incorporate advanced security features like:

• Rolling Codes: These systems change the transmitted code with each use, preventing thieves from capturing and replaying the signal.  
• Encrypted Communication: The signals exchanged between the fob and the car are encrypted, making them more difficult to intercept and decipher.  
• Immobilizers: These systems prevent the engine from starting without the presence of the correct key fob, further deterring theft.  

However, the gist of the differences can be pointed down in a few lines as follows:

• Activation: Keyless entry requires button presses, while smart keyless entry is proximity-based.
• Convenience: Smart entry offers true hands-free operation.
• Security: Smart keyless systems generally incorporate more advanced security features, making them less prone to theft.
• Technology: Keyless entry relies on simple RF signals, while smart keyless entry utilizes a combination of RF and low-frequency signals, along with encryption.

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Which is Right for You?

The choice between keyless entry and smart entry depends on your priorities. If basic remote locking and unlocking are sufficient, a traditional keyless entry system may suffice. However, if you value maximum convenience and enhanced security, a smart keyless system is the superior option. While the smarter system may come at a higher cost, the added convenience and security they provide are often well worth the investment. As car technology continues to advance, smart keyless entry is becoming increasingly common, this is something that is worth its while.