Is Smart Car Key Programming As Important As Everyone Says
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
Vehicle smart key technology allows a driver to unlock and start the car simply by grabbing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also permits a variety of other adjustments, such as seating positions and internal temperature settings, stereo presets, and mirror positioning.
However, this could create security concerns.
Security
Smart keys are computerized key fobs that communicate with the vehicle through an embedded antenna to unlock doors and begin the motor. Smart key fobs, unlike conventional keys that emit the same frequency every time they're pressed, transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the vehicle to which they belong. This makes it harder for tech-savvy thieves to spoof or intercept the signal and use the key to take your car.
Mercedes' Keyless Go system for instance, has an internal transponder that can identify the key of the driver. The Smart Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also turns on the engine by pressing a button on its key.
Certain smart keys, like those from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, also come with user-specific settings, which allow drivers to alter the seat, mirrors, steering wheel position, and audio preferences with the touch of a single button. They also come with an emergency lock that stops the car from starting without the key in the ignition.
This technology protects drivers from getting their car locked accidentally, especially when searching in backpacks or purses for keys in a parking lot with people who are not familiar with the area or where crime is high. Many systems will also inform motorists when the battery for their key is depleted, though this feature varies by manufacturer.
Convenience
The smart key for car near me key is perfect for those who are trying to get to their destination. By pressing the button on the trunk release or door handle, you can lock, unlock and open your vehicle. Key fobs can also connect to your phone to keep track of charging and location as well as other information about the vehicle, according to Popular Mechanics.
A big benefit is that you won't accidentally be locked out. The key fob communicates with an antenna in the vehicle to determine if it's within range. If not, the engine will not start. This will deter thieves who would steal your car to sell its parts.
BMW reports that the smart key makes use of rolling codes as well to prevent hacking and cloning. The computer inside the vehicle recognizes the code and confirms it before starting the engine. Most systems come with a mechanical backup in the form of an invisible key blade.
How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys can also detect the key when it is in use and adjust the vehicle settings according to the situation. If you turn on the vehicle while holding the key in your hands 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 activated when the car is powered by the chosen key. This feature could be beneficial if you're lending your car to someone 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 do this, hold the lock button until you release it and press the unlock button.
This will prevent your smart key fob's smart device from being able to send or receive any radio waves. This will dramatically extend the life of its battery. You can always reactivate this function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.
Certain smart keys have anti-theft features to prevent them from being copied by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart key uses rolling codes to stop access by anyone who is not authorized to use it. The car's computer examines the code in milliseconds after the smart key is put in. BMW makes use of a Display Key with a small LCD color screen. This allows drivers to lock their cars, unlock them, and start them without having to remove the smart key from their pockets.
Contact Pop-A-Lock if your need to replace the battery in the smart key fob you have or should you be thinking of purchasing a car that has a smart car key not working-key. We can replace the battery on any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths can help you set the system so that your vehicle recognizes it.
Special Cases
Although smart keys aren't secure against theft, they can help to stop thieves. Smart keys use rolling security codes that prevent hacking, and when placed in the ignition, the vehicle's computer checks the code in milliseconds. This technology was invented by Mercedes-Benz and is now used by a variety of luxury car smart key brands.
Another useful feature is that many smart key systems will continue to work even if a user forgot the key in the trunk or left it in an eatery or lost it during the trail. Some systems will also alert the driver when the battery is running low. Certain brands provide key covers that are specifically designed for smart car spare key keys to protect the fob from damage.