When keyless vehicles initially came out in Nigeria, many people believed that only the “big boys”—the people who drive fancy cars and press a button to start the engine—were allowed to drive them. On Nigerian highways, keyless ignition is becoming more common as more models embrace the technology. The hidden realities of these cars, however, are something that most people are unaware of.
Here’s what you might not have known about keyless cars in Nigeria:
They are not foolproof
Although keyless ignition is convenient, there are drawbacks to it as well. Your car won’t start if the battery in your key fob becomes low, which happens frequently and without warning. This can be a major inconvenience in a nation with erratic power supplies, especially when it may be necessary to travel across town to get a new battery.
The fuel economy myth
Some believe that keyless cars are more fuel-efficient. That’s not entirely true. Fuel efficiency depends on the car’s engine, weight, and usage—not the keyless feature. In Lagos traffic, whether you start your car with a key or a button, the fuel will burn just the same.
Security is still a major concern
You think your keyless system is thief-proof? Omo, some boys in Ladipo can steal your car without touching the door. One even hacked a Toyota from the back seat (don’t ask me how). Moral lesson: padlock mentality still is still very important.
Advanced, but not adapted for our realities
In Nigeria’s severe weather, keyless cars often depend on sensors and software that could fail. These systems can be impacted by dust, wetness, and bad roads. Some owners claim problems with automatic door locks or ignition delays, especially after heavy rain or excessive heat.
Misplaced fobs can cause real drama
Your car may become totally useless if you misplace or forget your key fob. It is expensive and time-consuming to replace a lost keyless fob, in contrast to conventional vehicle keys that a roadside locksmith might make. In case something goes wrong, some drivers even keep a spare fob at home.
Although keyless cars provide a modern driving experience, owning one in Nigeria necessitates a blend of traditional pragmatism and technological knowledge. Staying informed is crucial, whether that means keeping an additional battery on hand, enhancing security, or simply being ready for power-related problems.
Technology is a tool—how well it works often depends on how well it’s adapted to its environment. In Nigeria, even the most advanced cars still need a little street sense to survive. Leave your comment on your key fob experience in the comments section below, let’s discuss.