A wireless control apparatus for vehicles in that reduces the drain on an internal power source of a portable unit so that the internal power source can be used for a long period of time without being changed. The transverse drive unit is displaced relative to the valve body parallel to the longitudinal adjusting direction when the valve plate is adjusted from its intermediate position to its closed position and from its closed position to its intermediate position. The keypad assembly includes key buttons. The wedge-like member is asymmetrical, has feed and retard sides that engage the feed and retard roller bearings, respectively, and exerts reaction forces against each of the respective bearings. In another embodiment, the locking mechanism includes a latch that is pivotably attached to one of the collar ends and that is pivotable to a position in which it engages the other collar end and rim, whereby the collar ends are urged together to compress the collar against the rim.