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Can a Smartphone Be Used as a Car Key?

Mar 26, 2022
person holding a smart phone in front of a car

Yes, there are some car manufacturers that now offer digital key technology using apps through a smartphone. These apps allow users to operate their car door locks and even start the engine without needing a physical key or key fob. Digital keys can be used on both Apple and Android devices. Fortunately, both offer a straightforward setup process.


How Do I Add My Car Key to Apple Wallet?


If your pre-owned vehicle supports it, you can add your car key to the Wallet app, which will allow you to use your iPhone or Apple Watch to unlock, lock and start your vehicle. You will need:


  • A car that is compatible. Double-check with the dealership or manufacturer to determine if your car is compatible with digital key technology.
  • One of the following: An iPhone XS or newer, iPhone SE, Apple Watch Series 5 or newer, or Apple Watch SE. The device must have the latest version of iOS or watchOS.
  • An Apple ID. You must be signed into iCloud.


Use the vehicle’s app and follow the instructions to set up the digital key. You will be sent to the Wallet app, where you will be prompted to continue.


The onscreen instructions may prompt you to place your iPhone on the key reader while your iPhone pairs with your car. Once the pairing is complete, tap Done. If you have an Apple Watch, it may have automatically synced. If it did not, you may need to add it manually. This can be accomplished by going to Wallet & Apple Pay on the Apple Watch app. Then press the Add button while holding it next to your car key.


How Do I Add My Car Key to My Android Device?


If you have an Android device (A Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, or other select devices that run on Android 12) and a pre-owned vehicle that supports it, you can add a digital key to your smartphone a few different ways.


    1. Using an email link from the vehicle manufacturer. Using your phone, open the digital car key email that was sent from the car manufacturer. Then tap the option for “Add to Android.” (You may need to update your device before proceeding.)


Once you are on the welcome screen, sign in using your Google Account. Be sure to review the Terms of Service and choose Agree to continue. You will be prompted to edit the key’s name. Place your phone on the car key reader and wait while your car and phone pair. Once the process is complete, you can add a shortcut to the home screen.


    2. Use the car manufacturer’s app. Begin by opening the manufacturer’s app. Follow the prompted instructions to set up an account. Within the app, find “digital car key” to pair your car to your account. You will be prompted to sign in with a Google Account. Review and agree to the Terms of Service. Feel free to edit the key name. Place your phone upon the car key reader and allow the car and your phone to pair. Once complete, you may want to add a shortcut to the home screen for easy access.


    3. Use the car head unit. This option may not be available on all vehicles. Consult with your vehicle manufacturer to be sure. Using the car head unit, select the “digital key setup.” Unlock your phone if necessary. Place your phone upon the car key reader. Follow the instructions on the head unit. Select “Set Up Your Digital Key.” Sign into your Google Account and review the Terms of Service. You will then be prompted to enter an activation code. Once complete, you can change the name of the key. Place your phone upon the car key reader and wait for the two to pair. Add a shortcut to your home screen to access later.



Is a Digital Key a Good Idea for Baltimore or Washington, DC Drivers?


The convenience of utilizing your phone as a car key may seem intriguing, especially if you’re prone to locking your keys in your vehicle or misplacing them frequently. However, some manufacturers have noticed that many consumers still prefer the old-fashioned key fobs. What if your phone dies or you misplace it? It makes sense to have both options–just in case.


If you are in the market for a newer vehicle that utilizes some cutting-edge tech, browse our inventory or call us at 877-927-6093 for more information.

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