What Smart Car Key Programming Experts Want You To Be Educated
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
The smart key technology found in vehicles enables drivers to unlock and start their vehicle by just touching the door handle or putting the keys in the pocket. It also allows for a variety of other adjustments such as seat position as well as internal temperature settings and mirror position.
However, it could also cause security issues.
Security
Smart keys are computerized key fobs which communicate with the vehicle via an embedded antenna. This allows them to unlock doors and activate the motor. Unlike conventional keys, which emit the same frequency signal each time they are used, smart keys transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the specific vehicle they belong to. This makes it much more difficult for thieves with the latest technology to impersonate or intercept the signal and use the key to take your car.
Mercedes' Keyless Go system, for example, has an internal transponder that can identify the driver's key. 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 the key.
Furthermore some smart keyssuch as those from BMW come with individual user settings that allow the driver to adjust the mirrors, seat and steering wheel position and audio preferences at the push of a button. They also come with an emergency lock that stops the vehicle from starting if it is not connected to the key.
This technology prevents drivers from getting their car locked accidentally especially when looking in the bag or purse to find keys in a parking lot with strangers or on a busy street where crime is high. A lot of systems will also notify drivers when their keys are not fully charged, however this feature varies by manufacturer.
Convenience
The smart key is perfect for those in a hurry to get somewhere. By pressing the button on your trunk release lever or door handle, you can unlock, lock and begin your vehicle. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used to track charging location, charging status, and other information about your vehicle.
It isn't safe to lock your keys in the car. The key fob communicates with the antenna inside the vehicle to determine if it's in range. If it's not in range, the engine will not start. This will stop thieves from the vehicle and stealing its parts.
BMW reports that the smart key makes use of rolling codes as well to stop cloning and hacking. The computer inside the vehicle is able to recognize and verify the code prior the start of the motor. Many systems also have a mechanical backup that is an invisible key blade for styling purposes.
How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys also detect when the key is in use and adjust vehicle settings in accordance with the key's use. For instance, if you turn on the car holding the key fob in your palm the windows and the sunroof are opened to let air circulate through the cabin. You can also set the speed limit to only be applied when the vehicle is powered by the selected key. This feature could be useful when you lend your car to a driver who has little experience.
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 until you release it and press the unlock button.
This will stop your smart key fob's smart chip from sending or receiving any radio waves that could extend its battery life significantly. You can always reactivate the function by pressing the lock and unlock buttons again.
Some smart keys also have anti-theft features to prevent them from being copied by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart keys utilize rolling codes to stop access by anyone who is not authorized to use it. smart car keys replacement examines the code in milliseconds after the smart key is inserted. BMW offers a similar system with its Display Key, which includes an LCD touchscreen on the smart key to make it easier, and enables 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 considering purchasing a vehicle with a smart-key. We can replace the battery on any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths are able to help you set the system so that your vehicle can recognize it.
Special Cases
While smart keys are not safe from theft, they do assist to discourage thieves. Smart key fobs are designed to deter hackers from hacking into the system. When placed in the ignition of the vehicle the computer checks the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz invented this technology, which is now used by luxury car brands.
A smart key system will continue to function even if you lose the key in your trunk or leave it at an establishment. Certain systems will also notify the driver if the battery is depleted. Some brands offer key covers specifically designed for smart keys to ensure that the fob is protected from damage.