New technologies permeate all aspects of our lives. Our vehicles are no exceptions.

Microchips have sparked critical advancements such as air bags, stability control and engine-control systems. But we found that some innovations can leave you spinning your wheels. Among them:

¢ Electronic keys. The days of having a replacement key cut at the local hardware store are coming to an end as car keys become more sophisticated. In a nod to added convenience and theft protection, many cars now use electronic keys or transponders. Some transponders allow the driver to open doors and start the car just by pressing buttons. But some electronic keys are annoying. And woe to the driver who loses a high-tech key: They can cost more than $200 to replace and must be purchased and programmed at the dealership.

¢ Complicated radios. Some radios are simple: Knobs control volume and tuning, and each mode and tuner preset has its own button. However, other radios add layers of redundancy. Instead of a tuning knob, a few radios have a knob that scrolls between audio modes or presets through an onscreen menu – despite those functions having their own individual buttons.

¢ Dash displays and DRLs. Continually backlighted instrument displays in many cars increase legibility. As well, daytime running lights (DRLs) improve safety by partially lighting the headlights during the day. At night, however, these two features combined can lead drivers to think they have all their lights on full strength when they don’t.

As you might expect, servicing and repairing many of these advanced electronics systems can be an elaborate affair, requiring the use of specialized equipment that is sometimes too expensive for smaller, independent shops. The result is that more repairs need to be done at dealers, which generally charge higher rates. A bill before Congress, the Right to Repair Act, would require automakers to provide technical information to independent shops. We think that’s a good idea, as it would increase repair options for consumers.