# Are there any cars with keypad access as a manufacturer option? Keypad cars been tried and flopped? **URL:** \ **Category:** Factual Questions\ **Created:** [August 28, 2009, 12:32pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020 "2009-08-28T12:32:45Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 20\ **Page:** 2
**Author:** ![RLGW](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/r/3e96dc/32.png) [@RLGW](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/RLGW)\ **Post date:** [October 5, 2018, 11:53pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020/21 "2018-10-05T23:53:29Z")
We have had an entry keypad ever since we bought our 1992 Mercury Grand Marquis in 1995 because we stayed true blue to the Grand Marquis. Alas, no more Mercuries. Our latest model is a 2005 and showing its age a bit. Decisions, decisions. We don’t know where to turn, especially since Ford has abandoned its entire line of sedans in favor of SUVs?!? After living with keypad entry for over 20 years, we don’t want to be without it! ---
**Author:** ![Cleophus](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/c/a88e57/32.png) [@Cleophus](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Cleophus)\ **Post date:** [October 6, 2018, 5:39am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020/22 "2018-10-06T05:39:05Z")
The modern equivalent is keyless entry (not remote). The door handle contains a sensor that detects when you touch the handle and unlocks the door, and a button on the handle to lock the door. It works when you are next to the car with the key fob. > [@Tim\_T-Bonham.net](#): > > Generally, you can get a key that is a plain metal key for the vehicle. That will open the doors & start the car, but none of the other fancy features. Such a key can easily be kept with you when running, swimming, etc., on a lanyard around your neck is a common location. All keyless start cars come with a backup mechanical key. It’s hidden inside the key fob and can be removed by sliding a small latch. The corresponding door keyway is sometimes hidden under a removable flap next to the door handle, and the ignition keyway is behind the start/stop button. ---
**Author:** ![Hilarity\_N.Suze](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/hilarity_n.suze/32/6223_2.png) [@Hilarity\_N.Suze](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Hilarity_N.Suze)\ **Post date:** [October 6, 2018, 6:34am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020/23 "2018-10-06T06:34:36Z")
My mother had some kind of a Ford that had a keypad entry. It was great. However, in cold weather it could be a little tricky and unreliable. It had to be really cold weather though. This was a car she got in the late '80s. However, the keypad didn’t start the car, just got you in, so it wouldn’t have worked if you just didn’t want to carry a key. And I don’t think the car allowed you to lock your keys in it, either. ---
**Author:** ![bob\_2](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/bob_2/32/3341_2.png) [@bob\_2](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/bob_2)\ **Post date:** [October 6, 2018, 8:55am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020/24 "2018-10-06T08:55:29Z")
You could, of course, buy something like this. > **[Aquapac Keymaster : Amazon.co.uk: PC & Video Games](https://www.amazon.co.uk/Aquapac-604-Keymaster/dp/B0012BQZ0A)** > > A submersible waterproof case for keeping small but vital essentials protected and on your person. Such as car electronic key fobs, cash and credit cards. Use all buttons and switches through the case. A perfect fit for Asthma inhalers. Also protects... ---
**Author:** ![jz78817](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/jz78817/32/1028_2.png) [@jz78817](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/jz78817)\ **Post date:** [October 6, 2018, 12:37pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020/25 "2018-10-06T12:37:20Z")
> [@RLGW](#): > > We don’t know where to turn, especially since Ford has abandoned its entire line of sedans in favor of SUVs?!? they’re still going to be made for a few more years, just doesn’t sound like they’ll be replaced when they’re done. and yes, the keypad is still available on Ford and Lincoln vehicles. ---
**Author:** ![kayaker](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/kayaker/32/441_2.png) [@kayaker](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/kayaker)\ **Post date:** [October 6, 2018, 2:41pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020/26 "2018-10-06T14:41:19Z")
I’ve left my key atop the driver’s side front tire many times. Works in a pinch, ideally place it discreetly (tie your shoe and place the key). ---
**Author:** ![ZipperJJ](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/zipperjj/32/211_2.png) [@ZipperJJ](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/ZipperJJ)\ **Post date:** [October 6, 2018, 4:34pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020/27 "2018-10-06T16:34:46Z")
My 2017 Ford Escape and my mom’s 2018 Escape have the keypad on the door. No keyless ignition, tho. At least not in our models. ---
**Author:** ![chappachula](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/c/d2c977/32.png) [@chappachula](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/chappachula)\ **Post date:** [October 6, 2018, 6:21pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020/28 "2018-10-06T18:21:47Z")
> [@kayaker](#): > > I’ve left my key atop the driver’s side front tire many times. You can also buy a [hidden magnetic keyholder box](https://www.walmart.com/ip/Hillman-Plastic-Magnetic-Key-Case/19512258) that you stick anywhere you want underneath the car. ---
**Author:** ![Riemann](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/riemann/32/3133_2.png) [@Riemann](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Riemann)\ **Post date:** [October 6, 2018, 6:38pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020/29 "2018-10-06T18:38:55Z")
> [@qazwart](#): > > …With more advanced key fobs (like on the Prius), you don’t even have to unlock the door. Just having the key fob in your possession while you open the door is enough to unlock it. Plus, many cars now start without even inserting the key into the ignition. The key (or the key fob since there is no real key) never leaves your pocket. > [@sharding](#): > > This also makes it virtually impossible to lock the keys in the car (at least, it does in our Audi). The door won’t lock if the key is inside the car. It’s pretty great. If you lock the door electronically using the key fob, it’s already impossible to lock the keys inside the car. I’m not a fan of having the doors automatically unlock when a key is in the vicinity. If I’m on a long trip, I like to take a spare key with me, but I can never leave it in the car. ---
**Author:** ![pool](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/pool/32/4152_2.png) [@pool](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/pool)\ **Post date:** [October 6, 2018, 9:47pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020/30 "2018-10-06T21:47:35Z")
I wish more cars had the keypad, I had a Ford Explorer with one and I loved having that option. Seems it never caught on with other manufacturers. ---
**Author:** ![busterpickle](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/b/258eb7/32.png) [@busterpickle](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/busterpickle)\ **Post date:** [October 6, 2018, 10:00pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020/31 "2018-10-06T22:00:35Z")
You could use keypad entry and place the key fob in a RF blocking bag? ---
**Author:** ![Cleophus](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/c/a88e57/32.png) [@Cleophus](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Cleophus)\ **Post date:** [October 6, 2018, 10:11pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020/32 "2018-10-06T22:11:39Z")
> [@Riemann](#): > > If you lock the door electronically using the key fob, it’s already impossible to lock the keys inside the car. > > I’m not a fan of having the doors automatically unlock when a key is in the vicinity. If I’m on a long trip, I like to take a spare key with me, but I can never leave it in the car. The doors don’t unlock/lock until you touch the handle or push its button. The cars I’ve used with this feature allow a key to be locked in the car as long as the key used to lock/unlock is different. In that case, the key inside the car was too far from the handle sensors to allow the car to be unlocked with it. ---
**Author:** ![BrotherCadfael](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/b/977dab/32.png) [@BrotherCadfael](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/BrotherCadfael)\ **Post date:** [October 8, 2018, 1:25pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020/33 "2018-10-08T13:25:40Z")
I want to have the chip inside my keyless remote fob built into my watch or watchband. That way I ALWAYS have it. ---
**Author:** ![control-z](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/c/eada6e/32.png) [@control-z](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/control-z)\ **Post date:** [October 8, 2018, 8:24pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020/34 "2018-10-08T20:24:17Z")
A lot of Fords have it, but it’s kinda hidden as this video shows: [How to Use the Ford Keypad Entry - YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Fz6SJS9VdA) ---
**Author:** ![Dewey\_Finn](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/dewey_finn/32/4222_2.png) [@Dewey\_Finn](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Dewey_Finn)\ **Post date:** [October 8, 2018, 8:34pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020/35 "2018-10-08T20:34:41Z")
> [@BrotherCadfael](#): > > I want to have the chip inside my keyless remote fob built into my watch or watchband. That way I ALWAYS have it. Some auto manufacturers have [Apple Watch apps](https://www.lifewire.com/using-apple-watch-with-your-car-3961155) that will unlock their cars. ---
**Author:** ![Tim\_T-Bonham.net](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/t/46a35a/32.png) [@Tim\_T-Bonham.net](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Tim_T-Bonham.net)\ **Post date:** [October 8, 2018, 8:53pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020/36 "2018-10-08T20:53:12Z")
> [@BrotherCadfael](#): > > I want to have the chip inside my keyless remote fob built into my watch or watchband. That way I ALWAYS have it. Showing your age, man. 75-80% of young people do NOT wear a wristwatch. In their 30’s, it goes up to about 50% wearing a watch – Mostly men, in white-collar jobs. ---
**Author:** ![psychonaut](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/psychonaut/32/4655_2.png) [@psychonaut](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/psychonaut)\ **Post date:** [October 8, 2018, 9:01pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020/37 "2018-10-08T21:01:44Z")
> [@Cleophus](#): > > The modern equivalent is keyless entry (not remote). The door handle contains a sensor that detects when you touch the handle and unlocks the door, and a button on the handle to lock the door. It works when you are next to the car with the key fob. If you need a physical object in your possession to unlock the car, then it is in no way an “equivalent” to a keypad. It doesn’t solve the OP’s problem of having to carry a key (or fob, or whatever) when running. It also wouldn’t solve certain other problems that a keypad would, such as remotely giving other people easy access to the interior of the car. Keyless entry with a fob is the modern equivalent of the key, not the keypad. ---
**Author:** ![naita](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/naita/32/5862_2.png) [@naita](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/naita)\ **Post date:** [October 8, 2018, 9:02pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020/38 "2018-10-08T21:02:55Z")
What does **Mops** drive these days, I wonder? Have they found a solution in the nine years since posting this? ---
**Author:** ![Procrustus](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/procrustus/32/2994_2.png) [@Procrustus](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Procrustus)\ **Post date:** [October 8, 2018, 9:07pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020/39 "2018-10-08T21:07:41Z")
I have an app that I can use to unlock my car doors. (You’d still have to carry your phone around) It also has a button to start the car, which I have never tried. I wonder if it would work without the keyfob present. ---
**Author:** ![saje](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/saje/32/3631_2.png) [@saje](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/saje)\ **Post date:** [October 9, 2018, 12:03pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020/40 "2018-10-09T12:03:16Z")
I was just thinking about this the other day, wondering if there is such a thing as a good aftermarket keypad. I have a little Mazda2 that I adore. Where I live I can leave my keys in the car (out of sight, but the car’s unlocked and the keys live in it). Lately the random crime in my area seems to be on the rise so I’m thinking this habit has to stop and I should lock my car, but I hate having to keep track of keys! I’m also really bad at it. Yes, I know about the hook near the door, the bowl, attach them to something that always goes with you. I know all the tricks, I just hab=ven’t found one that I can or will actually DO. A friend has an F-350 with a keypad and it’s so great. I’d love to have one put in my little cr, but I don’t think that’s possible ☹ [Previous page](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020.md?page=1) [Next page](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/are-there-any-cars-with-keypad-access-as-a-manufacturer-option-keypad-cars-been-tried-and-flopped/508020.md?page=3)