Vehicle Smart Key Technology

The smart key technology that is found in vehicles lets drivers unlock and start their car by simply touching the door handle or by putting the key into the pocket. It also permits a variety of other adjustments, such as seating positions as well as internal temperature settings stereo presets and mirror positions.

However, this could create security concerns.

Security

Smart keys are key fobs with computers that communicate with a vehicle through one of the car's embedded antennas to open doors and begin the engine. In contrast to conventional keys that emit the identical frequency signal each time they are press, smart key fobs transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the car they belong to. This makes it much more difficult for tech-savvy thieves to impersonate or intercept the signal and use the key to take your car.

For example, Mercedes' system -- called Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder which can identify 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 begins the engine by pressing a button on its key.

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

This technology prevents drivers from being unable to lock their vehicle particularly when they are searching a purse or a backpack for keys in parking lots with strangers, or on a street where crime is high. Many systems will also alert motorists when the battery for their key is depleted, though this feature varies by the manufacturer.

Convenience

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

You shouldn't lock your keys inside the car smart key. The key fob communicates with the antenna inside the vehicle to determine if it's in range. If it's not, the engine won't not start. This will deter thieves from taking your vehicle and then selling parts of it.

BMW reports that the smart key makes use of rolling codes to ward off hacking and cloning. The computer inside the vehicle can recognize and verify the code prior the start of the motor. Most systems come with a mechanical backup system in the form of a hidden key blade.

Modern smart keys also detect which key is in use and adjust the car smart key programming near me settings as needed, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. If you turn on your vehicle while holding the key in your hand for instance the windows as well as the sunroof will be opened to let air circulate the interior. You can also set the speed limit to only be in effect when the car is started using the specified key, a feature that could be helpful when lending 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 it make sure you press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.

This will prevent your smart key fob from transmitting or receiving radio signals which will increase its battery's life considerably. It is possible to reactivate the function by pressing the unlock and lock button again.

Some smart keys include anti-theft features to prevent them from being stolen by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart keys employ rolling codes to block unauthorised access. When the smart key is inserted into the ignition, a computer inside the car confirms the code in milliseconds, before beginning the engine. BMW utilizes a Display Key that has a small LCD screen with a color. This lets drivers lock their cars, open their doors, and start them without having to remove the smart key from their pockets.

Contact Pop-Alock if you need to replace the battery on your smart key fob or considering purchasing a car with smart car key Programming-key. We can replace the battery in any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths will help you set it up so that your vehicle recognizes it.

Special Cases

While smart keys are not theft-proof, they do help to discourage thieves. Smart key fobs use rolling security codes to protect against hackers, and when put in the ignition, the car's computer validates the code within milliseconds. This technology was invented by Mercedes-Benz and is now employed by a variety of luxury car brands.

Another great feature is that the majority of smart key systems will continue to function in the event that the user forgets the key in the trunk or left it in the restaurant or if it is lost on hiking. Certain systems will also notify the driver when the battery is depleted. Certain brands also offer key covers specifically designed for smart keys to guard the fob from damage.