7 Things You Didn't Know About Smart Car Key Programming
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
Smart keys for vehicles allow drivers to unlock and start the car simply by grabbing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also allows for a variety of other adjustments, including seat position as well as internal temperature settings and mirror position.
However, it could also create security concerns.
Security
Smart keys are highly sophisticated key fobs that are computerized and communicate with vehicles via one of the antennas in the car to open the doors and to start the engine. In contrast to conventional keys that emit the identical frequency signal each time they are used, smart keys transmit encrypted signals that are specific to the car they belong to. This makes it much more difficult for tech-savvy criminals to intercept or spoof the signal, and use your key to steal your vehicle.
For instance, Mercedes' system -- called Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder that 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.
Furthermore there are smart keys that- like those from BMW come with individual user settings that allow the driver to alter the seat, mirrors, the steering wheel's position as well as audio preferences at the touch of a button. They also come with a backup lock that blocks the vehicle from running without the key.
This technology assists drivers from accidentally locking their vehicles, particularly when they are rummaging through their purses or backpack to find keys in a parking area filled with strangers or on a busy street with high rates of crime. Many systems will also alert drivers if the key battery is depleted, though this feature can vary by manufacturer.
Convenience
If you're in a hurry get to a place the smart key makes entering your vehicle as easy as possible. By pressing the button on the trunk release lever or door handle, you can unlock, lock and start your vehicle. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used to monitor charging location, charging status, and other vehicle information.
You don't want to accidentally lock your keys in the car. The key fob communicates with an antenna within the vehicle to determine if it's within range. If it's not, the engine won't start. smart key replacement will stop thieves from taking your vehicle and then selling its parts.
BMW reports that the smart key employs rolling codes in order to stop cloning and hacking. A computer inside the vehicle detects the code and confirms it prior to launching the engine. Most systems have a physical backup in the form of a hidden key blade.
Modern smart keys also recognize the type of key being used and adjust the car settings as needed, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. For example, if you switch on the car while holding the key fob in your hand the windows and sunroof open to let air circulate through the cabin. You can also set the speed limit to only apply when the vehicle is started using the specified key, a feature that could be useful if you loan your car to an inexperienced 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 do this, hold the lock button down and then press the unlock button.
This will stop your smart key fob's ability to send or receiving any radio waves that could extend its battery life significantly. It is possible to reactivate the function by pressing the unlock and lock button again.
Some smart keys have anti-theft functions that prevent them being stolen by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorized access to the vehicle. When the smart key is inserted in the ignition, a computer within the car verifies the code in milliseconds, before even starting the engine. BMW also has a similar system with its Display Key, which features a small LCD color touchscreen on the smart key for convenience and enables drivers to lock or unlock their cars without ever removing the key from their pockets.
If you're considering purchasing the latest car equipped with a smart key, or you need the battery in your smart key fob replaced, contact Pop-A-Lock for a quick and efficient service. We can replace the battery in any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths are able to assist you in setting the system so that your car can recognize it.
Special Cases
Smart keys are not 100 100% safe from theft, but they can help deter thieves. Smart key fobs are designed to stop hackers from hacking the system. When they are placed in the ignition of the vehicle The computer confirms the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz developed this technology, which is now used by luxury car manufacturers.
A smart key system will continue to work even if you don't remember the key in the trunk or leave it in the restaurant. Certain systems will notify the driver when the battery is not fully charged. Certain brands provide key covers specifically designed for smart keys to protect the fob from damage.