Smartphone mobile apps will soon replace traditional car keys as well as "smart" keys and fobs currently in use, according to the Automobile Association of America, which dubs them "transitional technologies." Chevrolet and Nissan could be the first companies to introduce mobile apps to enter and exit a car.

"And, Hyundai recently unveiled a more advanced concept that allows motorists to enter and start a vehicle using a specially configured smartphone that can then interface with the vehicle to provide additional functions and services," John Nielsen, AAA director of automotive engineering and repair, told the Los Angeles Times. "Some of this technology could be seen in vehicles as soon as 2015." 

AAA responded to more than 4 million drivers who locked themselves out of their cars last year. The figure is similar to the previous five years, although more cars come with electronic keys and fobs today. According to Kicking Tires blog, AAA offers a number of tips for drivers using smart keys:  

• Familiarize yourself with the keys' capabilities and know what to do in an emergency.
• Become comfortable with smart-key features in a safe environment.
• To avoid keyless-entry or smart-key failure, replace the battery every two years or when recommended by the manufacturer or in-car battery warning system.
• Don't expose fobs or smart keys to harsh elements, especially water. Get a spare key and store it in a safe location for emergency use only.