The Good And Bad About Smart Car Key Programming

Vehicle Smart Key Technology Smart keys for vehicles allow a driver to unlock and start the car by touching the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also permits a variety of other adjustments including the position of the seat the internal temperature setting and mirror positioning. This could also create security concerns. Security Smart keys are computerized key fobs that communicate with vehicles via an embedded antenna to unlock doors and start the motor. Smart key fobs, as opposed to conventional keys that emit the same frequency each time they're used, transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the vehicle to which they belong to. This makes it more difficult for tech-savvy criminals to spoof or intercept the signal and use your key to steal your car. For instance, Mercedes' system — called Keyless Go — has an internal transponder that can identify the driver's key. smart fortwo key fob unlocks and opens the doors and tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also starts the engine by pressing a button on its key. Additionally, some smart keys -like those made by BMW come with individual user settings that let the driver adjust the mirrors, seat and the steering wheel's position and audio preferences at the touch of the button. They also have a backup lock that blocks the vehicle from running without the key. This technology helps keep drivers from accidentally locking their cars, especially when they are rummaging through their purses or backpack for keys in a parking area packed with people or on a busy street with high crime rates. Many systems will also inform drivers when the battery in their keys is depleted, though this feature varies from manufacturer manufacturer. Convenience If you're in a hurry get somewhere the smart key makes entering your vehicle as simple as it can be. You can lock, unlock and start your car simply by pressing a button on the door handle or the trunk release. Key fobs can also communicate with your phone to keep track of charging, location and other data regarding the vehicle, as explained by Popular Mechanics. You shouldn't lock your keys inside the car. The key fob communicates to an antenna in the vehicle to determine whether it's within range. If it's not, the engine won't start. This is a deterrent to thieves who might steal your vehicle to sell the parts. BMW reports that the smart key employs rolling codes, as well as to protect against hacking and cloning. A computer inside the vehicle is able to recognize the code and confirms it prior to starting the engine. The majority of systems also have a mechanical backup that is an unnoticed key blade to be used for styling purposes. How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys can be able to detect keys being used and adjust the vehicle settings accordingly. If you start the vehicle while holding the key in your hands, for example windows and the sunroof can be opened to allow fresh air to enter the interior. You can also set up the speed limit to only be in effect when the vehicle is powered by the selected key. This feature is beneficial if you're lending your car to someone with no 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 it, press the lock button, then press the unlock button. This will stop your smart key fob from sending or receiving any radio signals, which will extend its battery's life considerably. You can reactivate this function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more. Certain smart keys come with anti-theft features to prevent them from being copied by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorized access to the vehicle. When the smart key is inserted into the ignition, a computer inside the car confirms the code in milliseconds prior it starts the engine. BMW offers a similar system with its Display Key, which has a small LCD color touchscreen on the smart key for added convenience and allows drivers to lock or unlock their cars without ever removing it from their pockets. Call Pop-A-Lock if you need to replace the battery on your smart key fob, or in the event that you are thinking of buying a car with a smart-key. We can replace the battery on any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths can help you set it up to make sure your vehicle recognizes it. Special Cases While smart keys are not theft-proof, they do help to hinder thieves. Smart key fobs use rolling security codes to prevent hacking, and when placed in the ignition, the car's computer checks the code in milliseconds. This technology was developed by Mercedes-Benz and is now employed by a variety of premium car brands. Another great feature is that most smart key systems will continue to function in the event that the user forgets the key in the trunk or left it at the restaurant or if it is lost during hiking. Some systems will also notify the driver if the battery is running low. Certain brands provide key covers specifically made for smart keys that keep the fob protected from damage.