Vehicle Smart Key Technology

The smart key technology that is found in vehicles lets drivers unlock and start their car by simply pressing the door handle or putting the keys in the pocket. It also allows for a variety of other adjustments, such as seat positions and internal temperature settings, stereo presets, and mirror positioning.

However, this could also lead to security concerns.

Security

Smart keys are key fobs that are computerized that communicate with vehicles through an embedded antenna. It can unlock doors and start the motor. In contrast to conventional keys that emit the same frequency signal each time they are pressed, smart key fobs transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the specific car they belong to. This makes it difficult for thieves with the latest technology to spoof or intercept the signal and use the key to steal your car.

Mercedes' Keyless Go system For instance, it has an internal transponder which identifies the driver's keys. The Smart Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and the tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also turns on the engine by pressing a button on its key.

Certain smart keys, like those made by BMW and Mercedes-Benz, also come with user-specific settings, which allow drivers to alter the seat, mirrors, steering wheel position, and audio preferences at the press of a single button. They also come with a backup lock that blocks the vehicle from running without the key.

This technology can prevent drivers from accidentally locking their car, especially when searching through a purse or backpack to find keys in a parking space full of strangers or in a busy street with high crime rates. Some systems will also notify drivers when the battery of their key is low, though this feature varies from manufacturer manufacturer.

Convenience

If you're in a hurry to get to a place the smart key makes getting into your car as simple as possible. You can lock, unlock and start your car by pressing the door handle or trunk release. Key fobs can also connect to your phone to keep track of charging and location as well as other information about the vehicle, explains Popular Mechanics.

A big benefit is that you aren't able to accidentally be locked out. The key fob communicates with the antenna inside the vehicle to determine if it's in range. If it's not, Smart Keys For Cars the engine won't start. This will deter thieves from absconding with your vehicle and selling its parts.

BMW reports that the smart car key key employs rolling codes as well to prevent hacking and cloning. The computer inside the vehicle detects the code and confirms it prior to launching the engine. Most systems also have a backup mechanical system that is an invisible key blade for styling purposes.

How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys also detect the key in use and adjust vehicle settings in line with the use of the key. If you switch on the vehicle while holding the key in your palm, for example the windows as well as the sunroof will open to allow air circulation to the interior. You can also set an upper limit on speed that will only be applicable when the vehicle is started with the selected key, a feature that could be useful if you loan your car to a new 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 this feature, hold the lock button, then press the unlock button.

This will prevent your smart key fob's smart chip from sending or receiving any radio signals and will increase the battery life significantly. You can always activate this function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.

Some smart keys also have anti-theft features that prevent them from being copied by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorized vehicle access. When the smart key is inserted into the ignition, a computer in the car verifies the code in milliseconds prior it starts the engine. BMW has a similar system with its Display Key, which features an LCD touchscreen on the smart fortwo key fob key to make it easier and allows drivers to lock, unlock, and start their cars without ever removing it from their pockets.

Contact us at Pop-A Lock if you require to replace the battery in your smart key fob or if you are thinking of purchasing a car that has a smart car key reprogramming-key. We can replace the battery in any smart key and our mobile locksmiths can assist you in setting the system to make sure your vehicle recognizes it.

Special Cases

Smart keys aren't 100 100% theft-proof, but they help deter thieves. Smart key fobs are designed to deter hackers from gaining access to the system. When they are inserted into the ignition of the car the computer validates the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz created this technology, which is now used by luxury car manufacturers.

Another useful feature is that many smart keys for cars (Suggested Reading) key systems will continue to function if the user forgot the key in the trunk or left it in a restaurant or lost it on a hike. Some systems will also notify the driver if the battery is low. Certain brands provide key covers specifically designed for smart key programming near me keys to guard the fob from damage.