I agree with Skuzzy. It came with a package on my MINI and I didn't think it sounded like it was worth while. Now that I have it, I love it. I just wish the key fob wasn't almost as big as the car, since you still have to have it with you.

 

hi all... sorry to repeat my question, but anyone got suggestions on how we would be able to lock and enter the car if we go to beach (and in the water) and just want to lock the car with the metal key and leave the fob inside the car?

 

You can lock and unlock the doors, but I don't see any place to use the key to start the car.

What about putting the fob in a heavy-duty (6 mil) small ziplock bag?
http://www.royalbag.com/6_mil_clear_zip_lock_bags.asp

 

thanks robin for your reply. as for starting the car, we were going to just leave the fob in the car... but then i read that would not allow us to lock the car from the outside... i should have tested this out before we purchased...

 

Even thouigh it would be a P.I.T.A., you could always remove the battery from the remote, then lock the battery & remote in the car with the "hidden" steel key.

 

so if I dont get Comfort access does the car still have a push button starter or just a key slot. Will probably trade 05 MC in later this year for MCS. Was also trying to decide if CA was worth 500 bucks.

 

if you have a food saver, you could vacuum seal the key in plastic to protect it from the water.

 

hey coffeeman... what is P.I.T.A. stand for??

 

Pain In The ****.

 

Yes, you still get a Start/Stop button.

I believe, but am not 100% sure, that without the Comfort Access you still get the fob and you have to put the fob in the slot. The only difference is that you can't keep it in your pants, purse, whatever. So, probably just as much of a pain at the beach.

This seems to be the way cars are going. I went with a friend to buy a RAV 4* today. The key has a chip in it that augments the security of the key and acts as a fob with a lock button, etc.

*He actually has a reasonable excuse for buying an SUV. He is an astronomer and has to make the drive up to the MIRA telescope on Chews ridge often. There are six miles of dirt road that climes 3,200 ft. In mud or snow, it can be a challenge.

 

Another really nice feature of the comfort access system is that you can leave the car running, get out and lock the car by pushing the button on the door. Run in to 7-11 to get a paper, then touch the button on the door to unlock. Really nice on 100 degree summer days...