Cars With Keyless Entry: Is It Worth Having on Your Next Car?

Cars with keyless entry have become a sought-after feature, especially in luxury vehicles and well-equipped models. Keyless entry can feel like a small luxury — right up until you’ve used it every day. When it’s raining in Dublin, your hands are full of shopping and the key is buried in a pocket, being able to unlock the car without reaching for the fob is genuinely useful.

So, is keyless entry worth having on your next car? For most Irish drivers, yes. It adds convenient, everyday functionality and can make a well-equipped car more appealing, provided the system works correctly and you follow sensible security habits.

It’s not a feature we’d choose ahead of a strong service history, good tyres or modern safety equipment. But when comparing two otherwise similar cars with keyless entry, keyless entry can be the detail that makes one much easier to live with.

What Is Keyless Entry and How Does It Work?

Keyless entry uses a short-range wireless signal to recognise the car’s matching key fob. With the fob nearby, you can usually unlock a door by touching a handle button or sensor, without taking the key out of your pocket or bag. This feature is common in many cars with keyless entry, including models from BMW and other premium brands.

The key fob emits a low-frequency radio pulse for passive entry systems, which allows the vehicle to detect the fob's presence and enable unlocking and starting functions seamlessly.

Keyless start is closely related, but it isn’t exactly the same thing. It lets you start the engine by pressing a button while the fob is inside the vehicle.

Certain vehicles feature push-button start but still require pressing a button on the key fob to unlock the doors. It's important to verify the specific features before making a purchase.

The terminology can also vary between brands, model years and trim levels. A listing that says “remote central locking” doesn’t automatically mean passive keyless entry.

Ford, for example, introduced its keypad system in 1980 and as of 2019, 90% of Ford vehicles offered keypad entry systems, demonstrating how keypad and keyless entry systems can coexist and provide tiered access permissions for users.

The 2024 Range Rover also features keyless entry among its specifications, showcasing how this technology continues to be a standard in premium vehicles.

The Main Benefits of Keyless Entry

It’s Useful in Irish Weather

On a wet morning in South Dublin, nobody wants to stand beside the vehicle searching through a bag for a key. Keyless access makes getting in faster, particularly when you’re carrying a child seat, work gear or the weekly shop.

It’s one of those pieces of car technology that removes a small bit of hassle several times a day. That convenience adds up over years of ownership and is a true pleasure for customers.

Keyless Entry and Start Make Short Journeys Simpler

For school runs, city errands and regular stops around Terenure, Rathfarnham or Dundrum, push-button starting feels natural very quickly. You can leave the fob safely in a zipped pocket and get moving without handling it at every stop.

Most systems also prevent the engine from starting unless the correct fob is detected inside the cabin. Many keyless entry systems feature automatic locking when the fob is away, adding an extra layer of security.

Still, drivers should always switch the engine off deliberately and check that the vehicle is secure before walking away.

It Can Make Luxury Vehicles Feel More Premium

Buyers searching for high-spec cars often look for features they’ll notice every day. Heated seats, parking cameras, smartphone connectivity, sport chrono package options, and keyless operation can all improve the ownership experience.

These features don’t transform how a car drives, but they can make daily journeys more comfortable and convenient.

In our experience, a sensible specification can also help a used car stand out when it’s time to trade in. Keyless entry alone won’t guarantee a higher resale value, but it can strengthen the overall appeal of clean, premium used cars with the right history and condition.

Are There Any Drawbacks?

Security Needs a Little Thought

Some keyless systems have been associated with relay theft. This is where criminals try to extend the signal between a key inside a home and the vehicle parked outside.

That doesn’t mean every keyless car is easy to steal. Security technology differs between manufacturers, models and production years. Rolling code algorithms enhance the security of keyless entry systems by changing the code each time the fob is used.

It does mean owners should build good habits. Keep keys away from doors and windows, use a good-quality signal-blocking pouch where appropriate and check that the car has actually locked.

A visible steering-wheel lock can provide an additional deterrent. AA Ireland’s car security guidance also recommends parking securely and keeping car keys out of obvious locations.

If a fob has a sleep mode or the vehicle allows you to disable passive entry, ask the supplying dealer to show you how it works. Your insurer may also have model-specific security advice.

Replacement Keys Can Be Expensive

Modern key fobs contain electronics that need to be programmed to the vehicle. Losing one can therefore cost more than replacing an old-fashioned metal key.

When buying used, ask whether the car comes with two working keys. It’s a small check with potentially meaningful value.

Batteries and Sensors Can Fail

A weak fob battery may reduce the system’s range or make operation inconsistent. Door-handle sensors and buttons can also wear over time, particularly on older cars.

Most keyless vehicles include an emergency mechanical key and a backup starting procedure. Have the professional salesperson demonstrate both before collection and check the owner’s manual for the correct process.

Is Keyless Entry Worth It on a Used Car?

Yes — if the vehicle itself is right and the feature has been properly tested. Among desirable used car features, keyless entry is practical rather than essential.

Before buying, check that:

• The specification in the advert matches the actual vehicle, and that you’ve checked the full details in the listing.
• The emergency key and backup starting procedure are available.
• No key or immobiliser warning appears on the dashboard.
• The keyless start system recognises each fob.
• Both key fobs are present and working.
• Every door unlocks and locks as intended.

We often see buyers focus on a long equipment list and overlook the basics. A high-spec car still needs a sound service history, even tyre wear, clean bodywork, suitable warranty cover and a valid NCT where required.

Keyless entry itself isn’t a deciding factor in an NCT test, but warning lights, roadworthiness and the vehicle’s overall condition matter. Treat technology as part of the inspection, not a substitute for it.

Does Keyless Entry Affect VRT or Revenue Rules?

Not directly. Keyless entry is an equipment feature; it doesn’t create a separate VRT charge by itself.

For imported vehicles, Revenue assesses VRT using the applicable vehicle category and valuation rules. CO₂ emissions and NOx-related charges can also be relevant.

Revenue sets vehicle registration requirements and deadlines, so anyone considering an import should check the current Revenue VRT guidance before committing.

This matters when comparing an imported high-spec car with Irish dealer stock. A tempting equipment list can be outweighed by VRT, NOx charges, VAT or customs costs, warranty differences and the time involved in registration.

Always compare the full landed and registered cost, not just the advertised price.

Keyless Entry on Suzuki Models

Specifications change by model, trim level and year, so it’s important to confirm the individual vehicle rather than assume. Depending on the version, Suzuki models may combine keyless entry, keyless start and other comfort or safety technology.

The Suzuki Swift is a natural fit for Dublin driving, thanks to its compact footprint and easy manoeuvrability. It’s particularly well suited to city streets, tight parking spaces and daily commuting.

For buyers who want an elevated driving position and SUV versatility, the Suzuki Vitara is well worth exploring. Its practical shape makes it suitable for busy family life as well as longer trips beyond Dublin.

The Suzuki S-Cross offers additional space for passengers, luggage and family journeys. If you’re comparing new and used examples, look beyond one headline feature.

Consider the drivetrain, safety equipment, infotainment, parking assistance and complete trim specification.

New Versus Used: Where Is the Better Value?

A new car makes it easier to choose the model and specification you want. You’ll also benefit from current technology and manufacturer warranty support.

Buying new may give you access to new-car finance offers, subject to lending criteria and the terms available at the time. Competitive rates and flexible payment plans, including Hire Purchase, allow customers to take true ownership after all payments are made.

A used car may put a higher trim level within budget. The previous owner has absorbed some depreciation, while you may gain extras such as keyless operation, upgraded upholstery like black leather interior, or a reversing camera.

There’s no universal winner, so compare which option gives the better overall deal. Compare the cash price, deposit or trade-in, monthly payment, total cost of credit, warranty and expected running costs.

Gerry Caffrey Motors’ new and used car stock lets you compare available vehicles. You can also explore what the dealership can offer on the offers and finance page.

Finance is subject to approval and terms and conditions, so don’t view the monthly repayment in isolation. Ask what you’ll pay in total and whether a final payment applies.

What Should You Prioritise Alongside Keyless Entry?

For Irish roads and year-round use, we’d place these items high on the shortlist:

• The right cabin and boot space for your routine.
• A documented service history and suitable warranty.
• Smartphone connectivity and straightforward controls.
• Effective heating, demisting and air conditioning.
• A reversing camera or parking sensors for tight Dublin spaces.
• Good-quality tyres with healthy tread.
• Electronic stability control and modern driver-assistance systems.

Keyless entry is then a worthwhile extra, particularly if two cars meet your main requirements and one offers easier everyday access.

Find the Right Specification for Your Next Car

Keyless entry is worth having when it complements a good car at the right price. It’s convenient in busy daily life, useful in Irish weather and a welcome feature on both new and used vehicles.

Condition, service history, safety and total cost should still lead the decision.

Thinking about upgrading to a Suzuki? Browse the latest stock online or visit Gerry Caffrey Motors at 106–112 Terenure Road North, Dublin 6W.

The professional team, including Jason, can help you compare Suzuki Swift, Vitara and S-Cross specifications, discuss finance options, and value your current car as a trade-in.

For true pleasure in driving and ownership, consider the steps towards securing a car with keyless entry and other premium features like the sport chrono package or black leather interior.

Visit our website and explore the dedicated sections for deals and offers tailored to customers seeking quality and convenience.

When you collect your new car, you'll appreciate how keyless entry enhances everyday usability, making your driving experience seamless from the very first moment.