How Smart Car Key Programming Has Changed My Life The Better
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
The smart key technology in vehicles allows drivers to open and start the car simply by touching the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also enables a range of other adjustments like seats positions, internal temperature settings, mirror positioning and stereo presets.
This could also raise security worries.
Security
Smart keys are advanced key fobs with computers that communicate with vehicles via one of the antennas in the car to unlock doors and start the engine. Unlike conventional keys, which emit the same frequency signal every time they are press, smart key fobs transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the car they belong to. This makes it difficult for thieves with advanced technology to intercept or spoof the signal and use your key to steal your car.
For instance, Mercedes' system -known as Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder that can identify the driver's keys. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a vehicle it instantly unlocks the tailgate and door, and the engine starts when a button on the key is pressed.
Furthermore certain smart keyssuch as those from BMW include individual user settings that let the driver alter the seat, mirrors, the steering wheel's position as well as audio preferences at the touch of one button. They also have an emergency lock that stops the car from starting if the key is not in the ignition.
This technology assists drivers from locking their car, especially when they have to search their purse or backpack for keys in a parking lot packed with people or on an area with high rates of crime. Many systems will also alert drivers when the battery in their keys is depleted, though this feature varies from manufacturer the manufacturer.
Convenience
The smart key is perfect for those who are in a rush to get to their destination. By pressing the button on your trunk release or door handle you can open, lock and open your vehicle. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used for tracking charging or location as well as other information about your vehicle.
A big benefit is that you won't accidentally lock yourself out. The key fob communicates with the antenna inside the vehicle to determine if the key is in range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This helps deter would-be thieves who could steal your vehicle to sell the parts.
The smart key also makes use of rolling codes to protect against hacking attempts and cloning, reports BMW. The vehicle's computer can recognize and verify the code before starting the motor. A majority of systems also have a backup mechanical system that is an unnoticed key blade to be used for styling purposes.
How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys also detect when the key is when it is in use and adjust the vehicle settings accordingly. For instance, if turn on the car while holding the key fob in your hand the windows and sunroof can be opened to let the cabin air dry. You can also set a speed limit that will only be applied when the vehicle is started with the selected key, a feature that can be useful when loaning your vehicle to a novice driver.
Battery Life
If you're looking for a way to get more mileage out of your vehicle's smart key, or just want to make sure it won't die during a trip to the grocery store, you can activate an auto manufacturer-specific feature called Power Saving Mode. To activate smart car key fob replacement need to press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.
This will stop your smart key fob from sending or receiving any radio signals which will increase its battery's life considerably. You can always restart this feature by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.
Certain smart keys also come with anti-theft capabilities that protect them from being copied by thieves. For example, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to stop unauthorized access to the vehicle. The car's computer is able to verify the code within milliseconds following the smart key is introduced. BMW utilizes a Display Key that has a tiny LCD screen with a color. This lets drivers lock their cars, unlock them, and start the engine without having to take the smart key from their pockets.
Contact Pop-A-Lock if your need to replace the battery on your smart key fob or should you be thinking of buying a car with a smart-key. Our mobile locksmiths will replace the battery of any smart key, and will help to set it so that your car can recognize it.
Special Cases
Smart keys aren't 100% theft-proof, but they assist in preventing thieves. Smart key fobs are designed to prevent hackers from gaining access to the system. When they are inserted into the ignition of the vehicle, the computer verifies the code in milliseconds. This technology was invented by Mercedes-Benz and is now used by many automobile brands that are luxury.
A smart key system will work even if you don't remember the key in your trunk or leave it at an establishment. Some systems will also notify the driver if the battery is depleted. Some brands offer key covers that are specifically designed for smart keys to guard the fob from damage.