There once was a time when we used our keys to actually manipulate lock mechanisms and ignitions manually, to gain access to and start/stop our cars. While it may seem like decades that we had to engage in this practice, it really wasn't that long ago that spraying a little lock lube was one our of mechanics' regular maintenance items.
The modern key fob has solidified its place bulging pockets or hiding in purses and its characteristic tones of locking vehicles and flashing lights will forever more be both the first and last experience associated with the drive. (I wonder how many people's purchasing decision is actually influenced by the sound their car makes when locking/unlocking its doors.)
Anyway, keys have always been an interesting first defense in automotive security. Unfortunately, crime has been around since even before cars, so early on it was clear some form of controlled access would be required. Early vehicles operating more purely on mechanical rather than electronic principles employed the old fashioned keys, though these could be easily bypassed with an attack on the steering column itself. Next came the smart keys from GM, first found only on "fancy" models, which featured little warts on either side of key, completing a proprietary electrical circuit before the car would run. Ingenious, but it really only stumped would-be thieves temporarily.
Next on the evolutionary key chain was the early key fob, which still hangs around today in some form or another. This design is often concerned more with remote access to the vehicle, saving those precious seconds of your day where you don't have to fumble around with arms loaded with bags in the rain, scratching the side of your car finding the lock. Some are smarter than others either utilizing stronger security measures like, laser-cut key parts or featuring trunk release, headlight actuation or that perennial favorite, the panic button.
Most brands combine the key and remote buttons all in one nice package, though some prefer to use the "classic" or "traditional" method, simply attaching the old style key via key chain to the independent remote.
It should be noted that Ford, Lincoln, Mercury tried to get crazy with the whole access theme, incorporating the equivalent of a combination lock to the side of their vehicles. What the point was, no one is really sure. You still need your keys to start the car and operating the keypad took more time than simply using the keys. Instead of coming off as a progressive time-saver, late model Fords carry these around as a sign dubious distinction that other cars make fun of. In modern practice, they are used less than an owner's manual.
The most progressive brands today use ultra-smart (the car key's version of Ivy League) keys which simply reside in your pocket or briefcase and communicate with the vehicle, telling it to turn on its lights and open the doors as you approach. You don't even have to fidget it out to start the car, which is now equipped with the super fancy start button, maybe the most modern-retro item in the car today. Other keys can be handed (if you can find them) over to a service advisor at the dealership who places them in a scanner to check items like odometer reading, fault codes, and other dynamic data.
General Motors has promised a new key fob that will also provide owner's with their current tire pressures, which is actaully a nice safety and efficiency feature should people actually pay more attention.
Yup, the car key is much more than just the symbol of our freedom as a driving society. It is a critical automotive tool that embodies safety, security, information and the only way to unlock the glove compartment. You can tell nearly as much about a brand from its design of keys as you can about a person by the car they drive.
It is really only a matter of time before they are predicting the weather and helping your kids with their homework.
How the car keys and security systems have evolved through time. I still wish they would innovate something more lighter and more portable to go through with.
Posted by: Crystal Clear Headlights | January 25, 2012 at 10:29 PM