Vehicle Smart Key Technology
The smart key technology in vehicles allows drivers to unlock and start the car by pressing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also allows a variety of other adjustments like seating positions, internal temperature settings, stereo presets, and mirror positioning.
This could also create security concerns.
Security
Smart keys are computerized key fobs that communicate with the vehicle through an embedded antenna to unlock doors and activate the motor. Contrary to conventional keys, which emit the identical frequency signal each time they are pressed, smart key fobs transmit encrypted signals that only match the specific vehicle they belong to. This makes it much more difficult for criminals with a technological edge to intercept or spoof the signal, and then use your key to steal your vehicle.
Mercedes’ Keyless Go system for instance, comes with an internal transponder that can identify the key of the driver. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a car it automatically unlocks the tailgate and door and starts the engine when a button on the key is press.
Additionally certain smart keys- like those from BMW include individual user settings that allow the driver to adjust seat, mirrors and steering wheel position and audio preferences at the push of one button. They also have an emergency lock that stops the vehicle starting without the key.
This technology prevents drivers from not locking their cars properly particularly when they are searching backpacks or purses to find keys in an open parking lot with people who are not familiar with the area or where crime is high. Some systems will also notify drivers if the key battery is low, though this feature varies from manufacturer the manufacturer.
Convenience
If you’re in a hurry to get to a place, the smart key makes getting into your car as simple as possible. By pressing the button on the trunk release lever or door handle, you can open, lock and start 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, says Popular Mechanics.
A big benefit is that you don’t lose your keys. The key fob communicates with the antenna inside the vehicle to determine if it’s within range. If it’s not in range, the engine will not start. This can deter thieves who could steal your vehicle in order to sell the parts.
BMW reports that the smart key makes use of rolling codes to ward off hacking and cloning. The computer inside the vehicle detects and validates the code before starting the motor. Most systems have a physical backup in the form of an unnoticed key blade.
Modern smart keys also detect the key that is being used and adjust the settings of the vehicle accordingly, notes how to unlock a smart car without a key Stuff Works Electronics. If you turn on your vehicle while holding the key in your hand for instance windows and the sunroof can be opened to allow fresh air to enter the interior. You can also set an upper limit on speed that will only be applied when the vehicle is started using the chosen key, a feature that could be useful when loaning your car 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 manufacturer-specific feature called Power Saving Mode. To activate this feature, hold the lock button down and then press the unlock button.
This will stop your smart key fob to transmit or receive radio waves. This will significantly extend its battery life. You can always reactivate the function by pressing both the unlock and lock buttons again.
Some smart keys also have anti-theft features that prevent them from being copied by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart key uses rolling codes to block unauthorized access. When the smart key is inserted in the ignition, a computer within the car confirms the code in milliseconds, before starting the engine. BMW utilizes a Display Key that has a small LCD screen with a color. This allows drivers to lock their vehicles, unlock them, and even start them without taking the smart key from their pocket.
If you’re considering buying the latest car smart key programming near me equipped with a smart key, or need your smart key fob‘s battery replaced, call Pop-A-Lock to get a quick and easy service. We can replace the battery on any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths are able to assist you in setting the system to make sure your vehicle recognizes it.
Special Cases
While smart keys are not safe from theft, they do assist to hinder thieves. Smart keys use rolling security codes that prevent the hacking of keys, and when they are 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 many luxury car smart key programming near me brands.
A smart fortwo key programming key system will work even if you don’t remember the key in your trunk or leave it in a restaurant. Certain systems will also inform the driver when the battery is depleted. Some brands offer key covers specifically designed for smart keys to keep the key safe from harm.