Why Smart Car Key Programming Might Be Your Next Big Obsession
Vehicle Smart Key Technology The smart key technology found in vehicles enables drivers to unlock and start their vehicle by simply pressing the door handle or putting the keys in the pocket. It also enables a range of other adjustments, including seat positions and temperature settings inside the car, stereo presets and mirror positions. However, this can also create security concerns. Security Smart keys are computerized key fobs which communicate with the vehicle via an embedded antenna. This allows them to unlock doors and begin the motor. Smart key fobs, unlike traditional keys that emit the same frequency every time they're pulled, transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the specific car to which they belong to. This makes it more difficult for tech-savvy criminals to detect or spoof the signal, and use your key to steal your vehicle. Mercedes' Keyless Go system for instance, has an internal transponder that identifies the driver's key. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a vehicle it instantly unlocks the door and tailgate and starts the engine when a button on the key is press. Additionally there are smart keys that- like those from BMW come with individual user settings that allow the driver to adjust the seat, mirrors and the steering wheel's position and audio preferences at the touch of one button. They also have the backup lock, which stops the vehicle from starting without the key. This technology prevents drivers from locking their vehicles, particularly when they have to search their purse or backpack to find keys in a parking lot packed with people or on an area with high rates of crime. Many systems will also alert drivers if the key battery is not fully charged, though this feature can vary by the manufacturer. Convenience The smart key is ideal for those in a rush to get somewhere. You can unlock, lock and start your car by pressing the door handle or the trunk release. smart key repair will also interact with your phone to keep track of charging locations, charging times and other details about the vehicle, explains Popular Mechanics. One of the biggest advantages is that you aren't able to accidentally be locked out. The key fob communicates with the antenna inside the vehicle to determine if it's in range. If it's not, the engine won't start. This is a deterrent to thieves who would steal your car to sell the parts. The smart key also uses rolling codes to protect against hacking attempts and cloning, according to BMW. The computer inside the vehicle can recognize and verify the code prior to launching the motor. The majority of systems also have a mechanical backup that is an unnoticed key blade to enhance the appearance of the. How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys can also detect the keys used and adjust the car settings in line with the use of the key. For instance, if you switch on the car while holding the key fob in your palm, the windows and the sunroof are opened to let the air in the cabin breathe. You can also set a speed limit that will only be in effect when the car is started using the chosen 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 manufacturer-specific feature called Power Saving Mode. To do this you need to press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button. This will stop your smart key fob's smart device from being able to send or receive any radio waves. This will significantly extend the life of your battery. It is possible to reactivate the function by pressing both the unlock and lock buttons again. Some smart keys have anti-theft features to prevent them from being stolen by thieves. For example, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorized vehicle access. When a smart key is inserted into ignition, a computer inside the car validates the code in milliseconds, before even starting the engine. BMW utilizes a Display Key that has a small LCD color screen. This allows drivers to lock their vehicles, unlock them, and start them without taking the smart key from their pocket. If you're thinking of buying a new car that has a smart key, or require your smart key fob's battery changed, contact us at Pop-A Lock for a fast and easy service. Our mobile locksmiths will change the battery on any smart key and assist you set it up so that your car recognizes it. Special Cases Smart keys aren't 100% theft-proof but they can aid in deterring thieves. Smart key fobs are designed to stop hackers from hacking into the system. When placed in the ignition of the car the computer validates the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz developed this technology, which is currently used by luxury car manufacturers. A smart key system will continue to work even if you forget the key in your trunk or leave it in the restaurant. Some systems will alert the driver when the battery is low. Certain brands provide key covers specifically designed for smart keys that keep the key safe from damage.