One of the more innovative features of the Toyota Prius is the “Smart Key” feature. It looks like a typical electronic key unit and has the standard “Open, lock, panic” buttons (as well as a secret retractable key) but you actually don’t need to use any of these features in order to operate the vehicle — you simply need to carry the key unit with you.
If you need to unlock the car, for instance, all you need to do is reach for the door handle, and the Prius automatically recognizes that you have the key and will unlock and open the door. To start the car, you just need to have a key and push the “Power” button for the car to power up. No need to put it in the ignition or anything. Lastly, to close and lock the car, you just need to press a button on the car’s door handle that locks the car (assuming you have the key on you). If the key is still inside the car, it’s impossible to lock the door — clever, huh?
After having the car for only a few days, both MP and I have both agreed that we would like to see more “Smart Keys.” Having to dig and fetch out our house keys to open the front door, is such a let down after using the neat features of the Prius. In time, I guess we’ll see this technology become more prevalent.
Smart keys are good until you need to replace one. I just came from my Toyota dealer to replace a Prius smart key and found out it cost $278 to buy the part, and the #&*! dealer is charging me another $144 to program it, coming in well over $400 for a replacement key. I’ll take the old metal key any day of the week!