Are Smart Car Key Programming As Vital As Everyone Says?

Vehicle Smart Key Technology

Smart keys in vehicles allow drivers to unlock and start the car by pressing the door handle or placing the key in the pocket. It also enables a range of other adjustments, including seating positions and internal temperature settings, stereo presets and mirror positions.

However, this could also create security concerns.

Security

smart car replacement key keys are computerized key fobs that communicate with vehicles through an embedded antenna to unlock doors and activate the motor. Smart key fobs, unlike traditional keys that emit the same frequency each time they're pressed, transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the car to which they belong to. This makes it difficult for thieves with advanced technology 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 identifies the driver's key. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a car it instantly unlocks the door and tailgate and starts the engine when a button on the key is press.

Additionally, some smart keys -like those made by BMW include individual user settings that let the driver adjust the seat, mirrors and the steering wheel's position as well as audio preferences at the touch of the 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, especially when searching in backpacks or purses for keys on a parking lot with strangers or on a busy street where crime is high. A lot of systems will alert motorists when the battery for their key is low, but this feature varies from manufacturer manufacturer.

Convenience

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

You can't accidentally lock your keys in the car. The key fob is connected to an antenna inside the vehicle to determine whether it's within range. If it's not, the engine won't not start. This is a deterrent to thieves who may steal your car to sell the parts.

The smart key also makes use of rolling codes to protect against hacking attempts and cloning, according to BMW. The computer inside the vehicle is able to recognize and verify the code prior the start of the motor. Most systems have a physical back-up in the form a key blade hidden in the.

Modern smart keys also recognize the type of key being used and adjust the settings of the vehicle as needed, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. If you start the vehicle while holding the key in your hand for instance windows and the sunroof will open to ventilate the interior. You can also set a speed limit that will only be applied when the vehicle is started with the selected key, a feature that can be useful when loaning your vehicle 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 smart forfour key Key Replacement - Marvelvsdc.Faith, manufacturer-specific feature called Power Saving Mode. To activate it, press the lock button, then press the unlock button.

This will prevent your smart key fob from being able to send or receive any radio waves. This will significantly extend its battery life. You can always reactivate this feature by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.

Certain smart keys have anti-theft features that stop them from being copied by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart forfour key keys use rolling codes to block unauthorized vehicle access. When a smart key is put in the ignition, a computer in the car verifies the code in milliseconds prior to it starts the engine. BMW also has a similar system with its Display Key, which features a small LCD color touchscreen on the smart key for ease of use and enables drivers to lock, unlock, and start their vehicles without ever taking it from their pockets.

Call Pop-A-Lock if you need to replace the battery in your smart keys for cars key fob, or considering purchasing a car that has a smart-key. Our mobile locksmiths will replace the battery on any smart key, and will help you set it so that your car can recognize it.

Special Cases

While smart keys aren't safe from theft, they do assist to discourage thieves. Smart keys use rolling security codes that prevent hackers, and when put in the ignition, the vehicle's computer can verify the code within milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz developed this technology, which is now utilized by luxury car brands.

A smart key system will function even if you lose the key in your trunk or leave it in an establishment. Certain systems will also inform the driver when the battery is running low. Some brands offer keys with covers specifically designed for smart car key recoding keys that protect the fob from damage.