Vehicle Smart Key Technology

The smart key technology that is found in automobiles allows drivers to open and start their car by simply touching the door handle, or putting the key in the pocket. It also allows a variety of other adjustments like seats positions, internal temperature settings, mirror positioning and stereo presets.

This can also cause security issues.

Security

Smart keys are advanced electronic keys that communicate with vehicles via one of the antennas in the car to open doors and to start the engine. Smart key fobs, as opposed to conventional keys that emit the same frequency every time they're pressed, send encrypted signals which are only compatible with the specific car to which they belong to. This makes it much more difficult for criminals with a technological edge to detect or spoof the signal, and use your key to steal your car.

For example, Mercedes' system -known as Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder that 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.

Some smart keys, such as those from BMW are also equipped with user-specific settings that allow drivers to alter the mirrors, seat and steering wheel's location and audio preferences with the press of a single button. They also have an emergency lock that stops the vehicle from starting if it is not connected to the key.

This technology helps keep drivers from accidentally locking their cars, particularly when fumbling in a purse or backpack to locate keys in a parking space filled with strangers or on a busy street with high rates of crime. Some systems will also notify drivers when the battery of their key is depleted, though this feature can vary by manufacturer.

Convenience

If you're in a hurry get somewhere, the smart car key programming (click through the up coming webpage) key makes entering your vehicle as simple as it can be. You can unlock, lock and start your car by pressing the door handle or trunk release. Key fobs can also communicate with your smartphone to keep track of charging, location and other data about the vehicle, explains Popular Mechanics.

One of the biggest advantages is that you won't accidentally get locked out. The key fob communicates with an antenna in the vehicle to determine if it is within range. If it's not, the engine won't start. This will deter thieves from the vehicle and stealing parts of it.

BMW reports that the smart key makes use of rolling codes as well to prevent hacking and cloning. The computer inside the vehicle detects and validates the code prior to launching the motor. Most systems have a mechanical backup system that is an unnoticed key blade.

How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys also detect when the key is being used and adjust the vehicle settings according to the situation. For example, if you start the car while holding the key fob in the palm of your hand, the windows and sunroof can be opened to let the air in the cabin breathe. You can also set the speed limit which will only be in effect when the car is started using the chosen key, a feature that could 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 car key repair 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 it, hold the lock button until you release it and press the unlock button.

This will stop your smart key fob from sending or receiving radio waves and will increase the battery life significantly. You can always restart the function by pressing both the unlock and lock button again.

Some smart keys have anti-theft capabilities that prevent them from being copied by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorized vehicle access. The car's computer examines the code in milliseconds after the smart key is inserted. BMW offers a similar system with its Display Key, which includes a small LCD color touchscreen on the smart forfour key key for ease of use, and allows drivers to lock and unlock their cars without ever removing it from their pockets.

Contact Pop-A-Lock if your need to replace the battery in your smart key fob, or if you are thinking of purchasing a car that has a smart-key. We can replace the battery on any smart key and our mobile locksmiths will help you set the system so that your car can recognize it.

Special Cases

While smart keys are not theft-proof, they do help to hinder thieves. Smart keys employ rolling security codes that prevent hacking, and when placed in the ignition, the car's computer verifies the code within milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz invented this technology, which is now used by luxury car manufacturers.

Another benefit is that many smart key systems will continue to function in the event that the user forgets the key in the trunk or left it in an eatery or lost it on the trail. Certain systems will also notify the driver when the battery is running low. Certain brands have key covers specifically designed for smart keys to keep the key safe from harm.