Vehicle Smart Key Technology

The smart key technology in vehicles enables drivers to unlock and start their car by simply touching the door handle, or putting the keys in the pocket. It also permits a variety of other adjustments, including the position of seats as well as internal temperature settings mirror positioning and stereo presets.

However, this could also cause security issues.

Security

Smart keys are sophisticated key fobs that are computerized and communicate with vehicles via one of the antennas in the car to open doors and start the engine. Smart key fobs, in contrast to traditional keys, which emit the same frequency each time they're pressed, transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the specific car to which they belong to. This makes it much more difficult for thieves with a technological edge to steal or spoof the signal and use the key to take your car.

Mercedes' Keyless Go system for instance, comes with an internal transponder which identifies the key of the driver. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a vehicle, it automatically unlocks the tailgate and door, and the engine starts when a button on the key is activated.

Certain smart keys, such as those from BMW are also equipped with user-specific settings that allow users to alter the mirrors, seat, steering wheel position, and audio preferences with the touch of a single button. They also come with a backup lock that prevents the vehicle from running without the key.

This technology protects drivers from not locking their cars properly especially when looking in a purse or a backpack for keys in parking lots with strangers or a busy street where crime is high. Some systems also notify motorists when their keys are low on battery, although this feature differs by manufacturer.

Convenience

If you're in a hurry to get to a place, the smart car spare key key makes getting into your vehicle as simple as possible. You can unlock, lock and start your car simply by pressing the door handle or the trunk release. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used to monitor charging location, charging status, and other information about your vehicle.

You don't want to accidentally lock your keys in the car. The key fob connects to an antenna inside the vehicle to determine whether it is within range. If it's not, the engine won't start. This can deter thieves who might steal your vehicle to sell its parts.

The smart key uses rolling codes to prevent hacking attempts and cloning, according to BMW. The computer inside the vehicle recognizes and verifies the code prior to starting the motor. Most systems come with a mechanical back-up in the form a key blade hidden in the.

How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys also detect the keys being used and adjust the vehicle settings in line with the use of the key. If you turn on the vehicle while holding the key in your palm, for example windows and the sunroof can be opened to allow fresh air to enter 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, which could be helpful when lending your car 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 do this make sure you press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.

This will block your smart key fob from having to send or receive any radio waves. This will significantly increase the life of your battery. You can reactivate this function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.

Certain smart car replacement key keys have anti-theft capabilities that protect them from being copied by thieves. For example, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorized access to the vehicle. The car's computer will check the code every millisecond after the smart key is placed. BMW has a similar system with its Display Key, which comes with an LCD touchscreen on the smart fortwo key fob key for added convenience and lets drivers lock, unlock, and start their cars without ever removing it from their pockets.

If you're considering purchasing a new car with a smart key, or you need the battery of your smart key fob changed, contact us at Pop-A Lock for a quick and efficient service. Our mobile locksmiths will replace the battery on any smart key and help you set it up so that your car can recognize it.

Special Cases

Smart keys aren't% theft-proof but they can assist in preventing thieves. Smart key fobs use rolling security codes to prevent theft, 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 brands.

Another helpful feature is that many smart roadster key programming key systems will continue to work even if the user has forgotten the key in the trunk or left it at the restaurant or if it is lost on hiking. Certain systems will notify the driver when the battery is low. Some brands offer key covers specifically designed for smart keys to guard the fob from damage.