Vehicle Smart Key Technology

The smart key technology in vehicles enables drivers to unlock and start their car by simply touching the door handle or putting the keys in the pocket. It also allows a variety of other adjustments, such as seat positions as well as internal temperature settings stereo presets and mirror positions.

However, this could also lead to security concerns.

Security

Smart keys are key fobs that are computerized which communicate with the vehicle through an embedded antenna. It can unlock doors and begin the motor. Smart key fobs, unlike traditional keys that emit the same frequency every time they're pressed, send encrypted signals which are only compatible with the specific car to which they belong. This makes it difficult for tech-savvy thieves to spoof or intercept the signal and use the key to steal your car.

For example, 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 vehicle it automatically unlocks the door and tailgate and the engine will start when the key's button is hit.

Additionally certain smart keys- like those from BMW include individual user settings that let the driver alter the seat, mirrors, the steering wheel's position as well as audio preferences at the click of a button. They also have a backup lock that will stop the car from starting without the key in the ignition.

This technology can prevent drivers from accidentally locking their vehicles, particularly when searching through a purse or backpack to find keys in a parking lot packed with people or on a busy street with high crime rates. Many systems will also alert motorists when the battery for their key is low, though this feature can vary by manufacturer.

Convenience

The smart key is ideal for those in a hurry to get somewhere. By pressing the button on the trunk release lever or door handle, you can unlock, lock and get into your vehicle. The key fob will communicate with your smartphone to track charging, location and other information about the vehicle, says Popular Mechanics.

You don't want to accidentally lock your keys in the car. The key fob connects to an antenna in the vehicle to determine whether it is within range. If not, the engine will not start. This will deter thieves from the vehicle and stealing its parts.

BMW reports that the smart key utilizes rolling codes in order to ward off hacking and cloning. A computer within the vehicle reads the code and validates it prior to starting the engine. Most systems come with a mechanical backup system that is a key blade hidden in the.

Modern smart keys also know the type of key being used and adjust the vehicle settings as needed, according to how much is a replacement smart car key Stuff Works Electronics. If you start the vehicle while holding the key in your hand, for example windows and the sunroof can be opened to allow fresh air to enter the interior. 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 could be useful if you loan 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 activate it, hold down the lock button and press the unlock button.

This will block your smart key fob's smart device from being able to transmit or receive radio waves. This will dramatically extend its battery life. You can always reactivate the function by pressing both the unlock and lock buttons again.

Some smart keys include anti-theft functions that prevent them being copied by thieves. For example, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to stop unauthorized access to vehicles. The computer in the car will check the code every millisecond after the smart car key programmer key is put in. BMW offers a similar system with its Display Key, which includes a small LCD color touchscreen on the smart key for ease of use and enables drivers to lock and unlock their cars without ever removing the key from their pockets.

Contact Pop-Alock if you need to replace the battery in your smart key fob, or should you be thinking of purchasing a car with smart-key. Our mobile locksmiths will replace the battery of any smart car key programming key, and will help you set it up so that your car recognizes it.

Special Cases

Smart keys aren't% theft-proof but they can assist in preventing thieves. Smart keys are designed to keep hackers from hacking into the system. When placed in the ignition of the car The computer confirms the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz invented this technology, which is currently used by luxury car brands.

Another helpful feature is that the majority of smart key systems will operate if the user forgot the key in the trunk, left it at the restaurant, or lost it on hiking. Some systems will alert the driver when the battery is depleted. Certain brands have key covers specifically designed for smart keys that ensure that the fob is protected from damage.