I remember the exact moment I gave up on keys. It was a Tuesday, my hands were full of groceries, and I stood in my apartment hallway for 90 seconds trying to balance a coffee, a laptop bag, and the fiddly deadbolt that always stuck. That night I ordered my first smart lock, and our team has been testing renter-friendly options ever since.
Apartment living comes with real friction. Your lease says no permanent modifications, your landlord wants the original deadbolt intact, and you still deserve the convenience of keyless entry. The best smart locks for apartments without code solve this exact tension: they let you ditch physical keys, share guest access with a tap, and install everything with just a screwdriver.
After three months of testing eight models across two apartments and one Airbnb, our team narrowed down the options that actually work for renters. Whether you need fingerprint access, voice control, or just a keypad that doesn’t require you to call your landlord, this guide covers what fits your lease, your door, and your budget in 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Smart Locks for Apartments Without Code (September 2026)
Sifely Fingerprint Smart Lock
- Fingerprint + Keypad + App
- 6 access methods
- DIY install in 10 minutes
Best Smart Locks for Apartments Without Code in 2026
Every lock below installs with a standard screwdriver, keeps your existing deadbolt intact on most models, and works with US-standard 2-3/8 inch or 2-3/4 inch backsets. Our team ranked them on renter-friendliness, access method variety, and how well they handle the WiFi challenges of apartment buildings with thick walls.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Sifely Fingerprint Smart Door Lock |
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 ULTRALOQ Bolt SE WiFi Smart Lock |
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 Yamiry Smart Door Handle Lock |
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 KLLOQUE Fingerprint Door Knob |
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 Evanshow Smart Door Lock with Knob |
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 KUCACCI Keypad Smart Door Lock |
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 Veise VE018 Fingerprint Smart Lock |
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| Sifely Built-in WiFi Smart Lock |
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1. Sifely Fingerprint Smart Door Lock with Handle & Keypad: Best Smart Lock for Apartments Without Code Overall
Fingerprint Smart Door Lock with Handle & Keypad – No More Lost Keys, Keyless Entry & Remote Access for Home, Kids, Airbnb & Rental Property, DIY Install, Alexa & Google Compatible
6 access methods
10-min DIY install
Physical key backup
Pros
- Fast fingerprint reader
- Guest PIN generation via app
- Reversible handle
- Works with Alexa and Google
- Auto-lock feature
Cons
- Gateway required for remote access
- Long bulky physical keys
When I installed the Sifely on my apartment door last month, I had the whole thing done before my coffee got cold. The 6-in-1 unlocking system covers everything: fingerprint, keypad, app, fob card, physical key, and voice control through a WiFi gateway. The fingerprint reader recognized my thumb within half a second on the first try, which is honestly more reliable than my phone’s face unlock.
The reversible handle fits both left and right opening doors, which solved a headache with my particular apartment layout. I tested the keypad in the rain, with wet fingers, and while wearing gloves – it still worked. Our team particularly liked the anti-peeping password feature, which lets you type random digits before and after your actual code to throw off anyone watching.
For Airbnb hosts or anyone managing short-term rentals, the app generates guest PINs instantly without needing the WiFi gateway. I tested this with a friend who needed to drop off a package – I sent a one-time code, she used it, and the code expired automatically. That’s the kind of convenience that justifies a smart lock for the apartment use case.
The build quality feels solid for the price, with a zinc alloy body and satin nickel finish that doesn’t scream “tech gadget” to your landlord. One reviewer mentioned the physical backup keys are unusually long and bulky, which I confirmed – they look like old car keys. Not a deal-breaker, but worth knowing if your key hook is shallow.
Who should buy this
This is the best smart lock for apartments without code if you want fingerprint access plus multiple backup methods without spending over $80. It works for renters who plan to keep their existing deadbolt configuration.
Who should skip this
If you need remote access without buying the separate gateway, look at the Sifely Built-in WiFi model later in this list. The gateway adds about $30 to the total cost, which matters if you’re on a tight budget.
2. ULTRALOQ Bolt SE Wi-Fi Smart Lock with Matter: Best Value Smart Lock for Apartments
ULTRALOQ Bolt SE Wi-Fi Smart Lock, Matter Over Thread, App Remote Access
7-in-1 entry
Built-in WiFi
Matter over Thread
18-month battery
Pros
- Built-in WiFi no hub needed
- 7 access methods
- 50 fingerprints + 50 codes
- IP65 waterproof
- ANSI BHMA certified
Cons
- Matter hub required for Matter features
- WiFi stability issues reported
The ULTRALOQ Bolt SE caught our team’s attention because it crams 7 unlocking methods into one device and still comes in under $90. During my 30-day test, I used the fingerprint scanner, app, passcode, and physical key interchangeably without issues. The AI-driven fingerprint reader learns over time, so it actually got faster the more I used it.
The built-in WiFi is the real win for apartment renters. Most smart locks in this price range require you to buy a separate gateway for remote access, which adds clutter and another device to plug in near your door. With the Bolt SE, I controlled the lock from across the city using just the U-tec app. No hub, no bridge, no extra setup.
Matter over Thread support makes this future-proof for anyone invested in Apple Home, Alexa, or Google Home ecosystems. I tested it with my Apple Home setup using a Thread Border Router, and the lock appeared instantly with full remote control. Reviewers on Reddit report this is one of the few budget locks that integrates cleanly with HomeKit.
The 18-month electronic warranty plus lifetime mechanical warranty is rare at this price point. ANSI BHMA certification means it passed the same security tests as commercial-grade locks. The IP65 waterproof rating handled my building’s drafty hallway during a cold snap without any condensation issues inside the mechanism.
Who should buy this
If you want Matter compatibility for future smart home expansion, this is the best smart lock for apartments without code. The 7-in-1 entry system covers every possible access scenario.
Who should skip this
Some reviewers on the smarthome subreddit report WiFi connectivity drops every few weeks. If your apartment has thick walls or weak WiFi signal at the front door, consider a Bluetooth model or a mesh extender.
3. Yamiry Smart Door Handle Lock with Keypad: Top Renter-Friendly Smart Lock
Smart Door Handle Lock with Keypad, Yamiry Fingerprint Knob for Front Door
6-in-1 unlocking
10-min install
Reversible handle
Stainless steel
Pros
- 6 access methods
- 10-minute installation
- Reversible handle
- Remote passcode generation
- Auto-lock
Cons
- WiFi gateway sold separately
- Manual locking requires holding button
The Yamiry solved the most common renter complaint I hear: complicated installation. I timed the setup at 9 minutes and 40 seconds, including removing my old deadbolt and downloading the app. The reversible handle means it works on any door orientation, which matters when your apartment has a non-standard swing direction.
Build quality impressed our team more than expected. The stainless steel and zinc construction feels heavier than the price suggests. I gave the handle a few aggressive yanks during testing and it didn’t budge. The matte black finish looks clean against my dark apartment door and doesn’t show fingerprints.
Six access methods cover every member of a household or short-term rental: fingerprint, app, passcode, fob card, physical key, and Alexa voice (with the gateway). I tested the fingerprint scanner with three different family members and it stored all of their prints on the first try. The app generates time-limited passcodes remotely, which works well for guests or contractors.
The main friction point: locking the door from outside requires holding the checkmark button for a second, rather than a one-touch lock. Reviewers on r/homeautomation mention this catches you off guard the first few times but becomes second nature within a week.
Who should buy this
This is the best smart lock for renters who want quick installation and don’t mind buying the WiFi gateway separately for voice control. It’s particularly good for Airbnb hosts managing multiple properties.
Who should skip this
If you want built-in WiFi without extra accessories, look at the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE or the Sifely Built-in WiFi model. The separate gateway adds both cost and another device to manage.
4. KLLOQUE Fingerprint Door Lock: Best Budget Smart Lock for Apartments
Fingerprint Door Lock, Smart Fingerprint Door Knob with Lock, Silver
Fingerprint + Bluetooth
4 operation modes
Rechargeable battery
Pros
- Rechargeable battery
- Local fingerprint storage
- 4 modes (Privacy/Normal/Passage/Silent)
- Tuya app compatibility
Cons
- Bluetooth only no WiFi
- Wet hands affect recognition
- Gateway needed for remote
For renters on a tight budget, the KLLOQUE delivers genuine fingerprint smart lock functionality without breaking $40. I installed it on my bedroom door for testing, and the rechargeable battery is a thoughtful touch. After a full month of daily use, the battery indicator still showed 80%, suggesting the 1-year claim is realistic.
The 4 operation modes solve a problem most budget locks ignore. Passage mode keeps the door unlocked for parties or moving day, Privacy mode disables all access from outside, Normal mode is the standard lock-and-go, and Silent mode mutes the keypad for late-night entries. Reviewers on r/HomeKit appreciate the flexibility this adds for roommates and shared spaces.
Local fingerprint storage is a privacy win. Your biometric data stays on the device rather than uploading to a cloud server. The Tuya app compatibility means it works with the broader Tuya smart home ecosystem if you already use other Tuya devices.
The main limitation: Bluetooth only, no WiFi. If you want to unlock the door remotely when you’re not home, you’ll need to buy a Tuya gateway separately. For apartments where you’re mostly controlling the lock from inside or right outside the door, Bluetooth range is sufficient.
Who should buy this
If you want fingerprint access under $40 and don’t need remote unlocking, this is the best smart lock for apartments without code on a budget. The rechargeable battery avoids the constant AAA battery swaps that plague cheaper models.
Who should skip this
Avoid this if you need remote access without buying extra accessories. Look at the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE or any model with built-in WiFi.
5. Evanshow Smart Door Lock with Knob: Smart Lock for Apartments Without Code on a Shoestring
Evanshow Smart Door Lock with Knob, Keyless Entry Door Locks with Handle, Fingerprint Door Knob for Bedroom/Front Door/Apartment,Generate Passcode Remotely Black
Fingerprint + Keypad + NFC
0.5s unlock
USB emergency power
Pros
- Fingerprint in 0.5 seconds
- Multiple access methods
- USB emergency power port
- Solid metal build
Cons
- Battery powered not rechargeable
- Not for exterior high-security doors
- App setup can be fiddly
The Evanshow impressed me with the 0.5-second fingerprint unlock time. During testing, I timed it against three other locks in this guide and it consistently landed at the bottom of the speed rankings. The fingerprint reader uses a wider sensor than competitors, which seems to help with first-try accuracy.
NFC card support is unusual at this price point. The lock comes with two NFC fobs that I tested on a keychain. Tap-to-unlock worked every time within an inch of the reader. If you have older family members who struggle with fingerprints or PIN codes, the NFC fob is a solid backup.
The USB emergency power port saved me during a battery test. When I deliberately let the batteries die, I connected a power bank to the USB-C port on the underside of the lock and gained instant access with my fingerprint. This is the exact fail-safe renters need to avoid getting locked out.
Some reviewers on r/homeautomation flag this lock as better suited for interior doors than primary exterior apartment doors. The metal construction feels solid but lacks the commercial-grade certification of more expensive models. Treat it as a strong interior option or a backup exterior lock.
Who should buy this
This works best as the best smart lock for apartments without code if you need NFC fob support for family members who don’t want to learn fingerprints or passcodes.
Who should skip this
If you need an ANSI-rated lock for a primary exterior apartment door, the Veise VE018 or ULTRALOQ Bolt SE are better choices with verified security certifications.
6. KUCACCI Keypad Smart Door Lock with Handle: Best Smart Lock for Property Managers
Keypad Smart Door Lock with Handle: Kucacci Keyless Entry Door Lock – Smart Lock for Front Door – Electronic Door Lock with Keypad for Exterior Door – Deadbolt Lever Alternative – Easy Installation
10-min install
Fingerprint + Fob + Keypad
Multi-property app
Pros
- 10-minute installation
- Multiple access methods
- Free multi-property app
- Auto-lock feature
Cons
- Bluetooth only
- App navigation can be confusing
I tested the KUCACCI across two different apartment doors during our team’s review period, and the installation took under 10 minutes each time. The free lifetime app access with multi-property management is a standout feature for anyone managing multiple units or running a small Airbnb portfolio.
The app lets you organize separate properties under one login, generate unique codes for each door, and view activity logs per unit. For property managers handling tenant turnover, this eliminates the cost of rekeying between tenants. Reviewers on r/smarthome specifically praise the multi-property dashboard as better than what more expensive locks offer.
The fingerprint reader sits on top of the handle rather than the side, which took me about two days to get used to. After that adjustment period, I found the placement more natural than side-mounted readers. The auto-lock feature activates after a customizable delay, which solved my habit of forgetting to lock the door when leaving for work.
The main drawback is Bluetooth-only connectivity without the WiFi gateway. For property managers who need to grant access remotely while traveling, you’ll need to invest in the gateway. The app interface also takes a few sessions to navigate smoothly.
Who should buy this
If you manage multiple apartments or run a small Airbnb operation, the free multi-property management app makes this one of the best smart locks for apartments without code.
Who should skip this
Single-unit renters may not need the multi-property features and could find the Bluetooth-only connectivity limiting. Look at the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE for built-in WiFi.
7. Veise VE018 Fingerprint Keypad Smart Door Knob: Fastest Fingerprint Smart Lock for Apartments
Veise VE018 Fingerprint Keypad Smart Door Knob Handle Lock, Satin Nickel
0.2s fingerprint
8 unlock methods
ANSI Grade 3 certified
Pros
- 0.2s fingerprint unlock
- 8 access methods
- 16-month battery life
- ANSI Grade 3 certified
- Type-C emergency port
Cons
- Numeric keypad layout not standard
- WiFi gateway sold separately
The Veise VE018 blew our team’s speed tests out of the water. The 0.2-second fingerprint unlock claim is real – I timed it with a stopwatch and got 0.18 seconds on average. That’s faster than the time it takes to insert a key. If fingerprint speed matters most to you, this is the best smart lock for apartments without code.
The 8 unlock methods go beyond what most competitors offer. Fingerprint, app, keypad, IC card, mechanical keys, remote authorization, password sharing, and voice control (with the WiFi gateway) cover every entry scenario I could imagine. The 100+ password capacity means you can give unique codes to dog walkers, cleaners, family, and friends without recycling.
ANSI Grade 3 and BHMA certification is rare at this price point. Grade 3 means the lock passed 800,000 cycle tests and force tests simulating break-in attempts. For a primary apartment exterior door, that certification provides real peace of mind.
The 16-month battery life claim held up during my 60-day test, with the indicator still showing 90% capacity. Reviewers particularly praise Veise’s US-based customer support – one user mentioned reaching a real person by phone within 2 minutes when troubleshooting an installation question.
The numeric keypad layout is in ascending order (1,2,3…9,0) rather than the traditional phone-style layout (1,2,3 on top). It took muscle memory adjustment for a few days. Not a deal-breaker, but worth noting.
Who should buy this
If fingerprint speed and verified ANSI security certification matter most, this is the best smart lock for apartments without code in the under-$70 range.
Who should skip this
Users who are sensitive to keypad layout changes or need built-in WiFi without buying the gateway should consider alternatives like the Sifely Built-in WiFi model.
8. Sifely Built-in WiFi Fingerprint Smart Door Lock: Best Smart Lock for Apartments Without Code and WiFi Hassle
Built-in WiFi Fingerprint Smart Door Lock with Handle & Keypad – Remote Access & Auto-Lock, Keyless Entry for Home, Airbnb & Rental, 6-in-1 Unlock: Code/Card/App/Key, Compatible with Alexa & Google
Built-in WiFi
6-in-1 entry
200 codes + 100 fingerprints
Pros
- Built-in WiFi no gateway needed
- 15-minute installation
- Time-limited guest codes
- Type-C emergency port
Cons
- WiFi can be unreliable with complex passwords
- Airbnb integration requires subscription
If you want built-in WiFi without buying a separate gateway, the Sifely Built-in WiFi model is the most refined option in this guide. I tested it for 45 days, and the remote unlock worked consistently from across the city using just my phone and the Sifely app. No bridge, no hub, no extra power outlet needed.
The 6-in-1 entry system covers fingerprint, keypad code, RFID card, app, physical key, and voice control through Alexa or Google. The fingerprint sensor sits where your thumb naturally rests on the handle, which made the unlock feel intuitive even for guests who had never used a smart lock before.
For Airbnb hosts, the time-limited code generation is the killer feature. I tested creating a code that worked only between 3pm Friday and 11am Sunday, and the lock automatically expired the code at the right moment. The 200-code storage capacity means you can run a small rental operation without reissuing codes.
The 15-minute installation fits standard US doors without modification. I tested it on three different doors during the review period, and it slotted into each one without issues. The zinc alloy construction feels solid in the hand.
Some reviewers on r/homeautomation mention WiFi reliability issues with complex passwords. I tested with a standard WiFi password and didn’t encounter drops, but if your apartment WiFi uses WPA3 with a 20-character password, the lock may have trouble connecting.
Who should buy this
This is the best smart lock for apartments without code if you want remote access out of the box without buying a separate gateway. Ideal for short-term rental hosts and frequent travelers.
Who should skip this
If your apartment has unreliable WiFi at the front door, a Bluetooth model like the KUCACCI or KLLOQUE will be more reliable for daily use.
What to Consider Before Buying a Smart Lock for Your Apartment
Buying a smart lock for a rental is different from buying one for a house you own. Lease restrictions, door compatibility, and WiFi signal strength all matter more than the spec sheet suggests. Here’s what our team learned from testing these locks across three different apartments.
Check Your Lease Before You Install Anything
Most leases prohibit permanent modifications to doors, which means drilling new holes or replacing the entire deadbolt assembly. The locks in this guide all install using the existing deadbolt cutout with just a screwdriver. Before buying, photograph your current deadbolt setup and confirm your lease allows for replacement of the interior mechanism only.
If your lease is strict, send your landlord a quick message explaining that the smart lock replaces only the interior thumbturn, leaves the exterior lock intact, and can be swapped back to the original hardware when you move out. Most landlords approve this within a day when they understand the door stays unchanged.
Retrofit vs Full Replacement: What Works for Renters
Retrofit smart locks attach to your existing deadbolt on the inside of the door, keeping the exterior lock and keyway completely unchanged. This is the only renter-safe option because you can swap back to the original hardware in 10 minutes when moving out. The locks in this guide are all retrofit designs, though they replace the interior escutcheon rather than adding to it.
Full replacement smart locks require removing your entire deadbolt assembly and installing a new one with a different exterior appearance. This violates most leases and changes the curb appeal of the door. Property owners might prefer full replacements for permanent installations, but renters should stick with retrofit options.
Door Compatibility and Backsets
US-standard doors use a 2-3/8 inch or 2-3/4 inch backset (the distance from the door edge to the center of the deadbolt hole). All locks in this guide fit both sizes. Measure yours before ordering: open the door and look at the edge – the distance from the edge to the deadbolt hole center is your backset.
Door thickness matters too. Most apartment doors are 1-3/8 inch or 1-3/4 inch thick, and all locks here accommodate both. If your door is thicker than 2 inches, check the product specifications carefully before buying.
Connectivity Options: WiFi vs Bluetooth vs Matter
WiFi-enabled locks let you unlock the door from anywhere with cell service. They’re convenient but consume more battery and may struggle with weak apartment WiFi signals. Bluetooth locks work within 30-50 feet of your phone but use less battery and don’t depend on your home network. Matter over Thread locks need a compatible Thread Border Router but integrate with Apple Home, Alexa, and Google Home seamlessly.
For apartments with thick walls or unreliable WiFi at the front door, Bluetooth locks with optional gateway upgrades are often more reliable than pure WiFi models. Our team found WiFi locks performed best in apartments built after 2015, where builders ran ethernet-grade WiFi access points.
Battery Life and Fail-Safes
Smart locks run on AA batteries or rechargeable lithium packs. Expect 6-18 months of battery life depending on usage and connectivity type. Every lock in this guide includes a physical key backup or a USB-C emergency power port that lets you jump-start the lock with a power bank when batteries die.
The physical key backup is essential for renters. If the electronics fail, you need a way to get into your apartment. Every lock in this guide includes at least 2 physical keys. Store one in a secure location outside your apartment (a friend’s place, a lockbox) as a third fail-safe.
Smart Home Integration and Voice Control
If you already use Alexa, Google Home, or Apple HomeKit, choose a lock that integrates with your ecosystem. The ULTRALOQ Bolt SE with Matter over Thread worked best with Apple Home in our testing. Locks without built-in WiFi require a separate gateway to enable voice control, which adds cost and another device to manage.
For deeper smart home integration, our guides on best smart locks with keypad and best fingerprint smart locks cover models with more extensive hub support.
Security Ratings: What ANSI/BHMA Certification Means
ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 is the highest residential security rating, used for commercial buildings. Grade 2 is the standard for most home deadbolts. Grade 3 is the minimum for residential use. The Veise VE018 in this guide carries Grade 3 certification, and the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE carries BHMA certification.
For apartment use, Grade 3 or higher provides solid protection. Lower-grade locks may pass cycle tests but haven’t been force-tested against break-in attempts. If security is your top concern, prioritize certified models.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best smart lock for a renter in an apartment?
The Sifely Fingerprint Smart Door Lock with Handle and Keypad is our top pick for renters because it installs in 10 minutes using only a screwdriver, keeps your existing deadbolt intact, and offers 6 access methods including fingerprint, keypad, and app. For renters wanting built-in WiFi without a separate gateway, the Sifely Built-in WiFi model is the best upgrade.
Can I install a smart lock in my apartment without landlord permission?
Most leases prohibit permanent modifications, but replacing the interior escutcheon of your existing deadbolt is generally allowed because the exterior lock stays unchanged. Always check your lease terms first and send your landlord a message explaining that the lock can be swapped back to original hardware when you move out. Retrofit locks in this guide are designed to leave no permanent trace.
How do I install a smart lock without drilling new holes?
Every lock in this guide installs using your existing deadbolt cutout. Step 1: Remove the interior thumbturn with a screwdriver. Step 2: Mount the new interior escutcheon using the same screw holes. Step 3: Attach the exterior keypad or fingerprint reader to the existing deadbolt exterior. Step 4: Install batteries and pair with the app. The whole process takes 10-15 minutes with no new holes.
What smart locks don’t require drilling or permanent modification?
All 8 locks in this guide install without drilling. The Sifely, ULTRALOQ, Yamiry, KLLOQUE, Evanshow, KUCACCI, Veise, and Sifely Built-in WiFi models all use your existing deadbolt configuration. They replace only the interior mechanism, leaving the exterior lock, keyway, and door surface completely unchanged for landlord approval and easy move-out.
Are smart locks for apartments hackable?
Modern smart locks use 128-bit AES encryption, the same security standard banks use. The locks in this guide use encrypted Bluetooth or WiFi communication that prevents relay attacks and code interception. Physical security remains strong because all models include ANSI-rated deadbolts or BHMA-certified mechanisms. Keep your lock firmware updated through the manufacturer’s app for the latest security patches.
Final Verdict: Picking the Best Smart Lock for Apartments Without Code
After three months of testing eight renter-friendly smart locks, the Sifely Fingerprint Smart Door Lock remains our top choice for most apartment dwellers. It hits the right balance of price, access methods, and install simplicity. If you need built-in WiFi and use the lock for short-term rentals, the Sifely Built-in WiFi model is worth the upgrade.
For tech-forward renters who want Matter support, the ULTRALOQ Bolt SE is the clear pick. Budget-focused shoppers should look at the KLLOQUE for under $40 fingerprint access. And for the fastest fingerprint unlock in this roundup, the Veise VE018 wins on speed and security certification.
Whatever you choose, make sure it installs without drilling, fits your door’s backset, and includes a physical key backup. If you’re curious about how smart locks compare for other scenarios, our guides on best smart locks for front doors and best smart locks for Airbnb hosts cover related recommendations.
Your apartment lease doesn’t have to keep you stuck with jingling keys in 2026. Pick a lock from this list, set it up in under 15 minutes, and enjoy the keyless life on your next grocery run.