How To Recognize The Smart Car Key Programming That's Right For You
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
Smart keys in vehicles allow drivers to unlock and start the car simply by pressing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also allows many other adjustments such as seat position, internal temperature settings and mirror positioning.
This could also create security worries.
Security
Smart keys are key fobs that are computerized that communicate with vehicles via an embedded antenna to unlock doors and begin the motor. Smart key fobs, in contrast to traditional keys that emit the same frequency every time they're pressed, transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the specific car to which they belong to. This makes it harder for thieves with the latest technology to steal or spoof the signal and use the key to steal your car.
For example, Mercedes' system -- called Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder that can identify the driver's key. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a vehicle, it automatically unlocks the tailgate and door, and the engine starts when the key's button is press.
Certain smart keys, like those from BMW are also equipped with user-specific settings that allow the driver to alter the mirrors, seat and the steering wheel's position and even audio preferences with the click of a button. They also come with a backup lock that prevents the vehicle from starting without the key.
This technology helps keep drivers from accidentally locking their cars, especially when fumbling in a purse or backpack to locate keys in a parking lot filled with strangers or on an area with high crime rates. Some systems will also notify drivers when the battery in their keys is low, but this feature may differ from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Convenience
If you're in a hurry get to a place the smart key makes getting into your vehicle as simple as possible. By pressing the button on your trunk release or door handle you can open, lock and open your vehicle. Key fobs can also interact with your phone to track charging locations, charging times and other details about the vehicle, says Popular Mechanics.
You can't accidentally lock your keys inside the car. The key fob connects to an antenna in the vehicle to determine if it's within the range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This can deter thieves who could steal your vehicle to sell the parts.
BMW reports that the smart key utilizes rolling codes in order to stop cloning and hacking. The computer inside the vehicle detects and validates the code before starting the motor. Most systems also have a mechanical backup that is a key blade that's hidden to be used for styling purposes.
Modern smart keys can also tell the type of key being used and adjust the car settings in line with the use of the key, says How Stuff Works Electronics. If you start the vehicle while holding the key in your hands, for example, the windows and the sunroof will open to ventilate the interior. You can also set up a speed limit which will only be in effect when the car is powered by the chosen key. This feature is useful if you're loaning your vehicle to a driver who is not experienced.
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 you need to press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.
This will make it impossible for your smart key fob from having to send or receive any radio waves. This will significantly increase the battery's life. You can always activate the function by pressing both the unlock and lock button again.
Some smart keys have anti-theft functions that prevent them being stolen by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to stop unauthorized vehicle access. When a smart key is inserted in the ignition, a computer inside the car validates the code in milliseconds before beginning the engine. BMW offers a similar system with its Display Key, which includes an LCD touchscreen on the smart key to make it easier, and allows drivers to lock or unlock their cars without ever removing the key from their pockets.
Contact us at Pop-A Lock if you require to replace the battery in the smart key fob you have or in the event that you are thinking of purchasing a car that has a smart-key. Our mobile locksmiths can replace the battery of any smart key and help to set it so that your car recognizes it.
Special Cases
While smart keys are not secure against theft, they can help to deter thieves. Smart keys are designed to stop hackers from hacking the system. When car smart key replacement are placed in the ignition of the car, the computer verifies the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz created this technology, which is currently used by luxury car manufacturers.
Another benefit is that many smart key systems will continue to function even if the user has forgotten the key in the trunk or left it at the restaurant, or lost it during the trail. Certain systems will notify the driver when the battery is low. Certain brands have key covers that are specifically designed for smart keys to protect the fob from damage.