What Can a Smart Car Key Fob Do For You?

Mercedes introduced the first fobs in 1998. They are also referred to as smart forfour key replacement keys, keyless entry, or keyless entry fobs. Key fobs that are controlled by computers perform many tasks, including locking and unlocking a car as well as launching it.

They transmit an encrypted, rolling signal. They are protected from thieves who are tech-savvy.

Safety

A smart key fob continuously communicates with vehicles using radiofrequency signals. It sends a low-power signal that, when pressed, instructs the car to open doors and start its engine. The car recognizes the unique encrypted code of a particular keyfob. This means that if a key fob is stolen, the car will not be started.

A new hack allows thieves to exploit this communication. Relay attacks are carried out with devices that transmit at the same rate as a key fob. How Stuff Works Electronics says that thieves could put one of these devices inside an unnoticed pocket or a hidden location to stop the key fob's lock command remotely. This is a risk that could become more commonplace as more drivers adopt smart forfour key keys.

Apart from these security features, a smart key fob can simplify your life by automatically attending to the needs of your vehicle. A key fob connected to your smartphone, for instance, can detect your presence and then unlock the doors so you don't need to push the remote button. It also can detect that you're leaving the vehicle and automatically lock it, so that you will not forget to lock the doors. Many smart key fobs include a battery indicator that warns you ahead of time when the battery is low. The majority of models let you replace the battery quickly and easily without any tools or equipment required.

Convenience

Contrary to traditional keys made of metal smart key for car keys do not require physical inserting into an ignition slot in order to unlock or start a car. Instead, the user has to put it on their person and be able to bring it within range of the vehicle, as described by the BMW Group. Some smart keys, like the Display Key, come with a small LCD touchscreen that allows drivers to access features like locking, unlocking, and keyless start directly from their key fob, without the need to connect the Bluetooth system of the car.

Another way smart keys can save drivers time is by automating the process of locking their doors when they leave it. Consumer Reports says that this feature is available on a wide range of vehicles. It also makes it easier for drivers to maneuver around tight spaces without accidentally crushing someone or something.

Additionally, smart key systems typically do not send the same frequency signal over and over in order to make them more vulnerable to relay attacks, says Open Road Auto Group. Smart keys are specific to each vehicle, which means that a stolen car can't be connected to a hotwire. This technology makes it extremely difficult for thieves to steal a car.

Security

Some of the high-tech electronic features found in the latest automobiles are included in the key fob. These devices are capable of much more than locking and unlocking doors, or making chirping sounds to help drivers locate their car in parking spaces. However many owners are unaware of the full capabilities.

For instance, certain smart keys can activate windows that automatically open and sunroof once they are press. One auto editor at CR went into her Honda Accord to find the windows all down and the sunroof completely open. She was thankful for her Smart Key that automatically locked the car.

According to How Stuff Works, some smart keys use computer encrypted signals to deter car thieves. This technology blocks hotwiring, which thieves steal a vehicle's engine controller module (ECM), usually located at the front of the engine. The ECM manages a range of important functions, including engine power and transmission control.

Other smart keys' features include anti-theft coding and an individual security ID assigned to each key, which can turn off the ignition if it's not the right one. The security ID is a special code that's transmitted from the ECM to the key when it's put into the ignition. It is then confirmed by a device inside the car.

Maintenance

Smart car key fobs do much more than unlock the door. It can start your engine and operate suspension and brakes remotely. It can also provide information about your car, such as the fuel level and the oil temperature.

Like any piece of electronic equipment like a smart car key fob needs regular maintenance in order to function properly. Modern key fobs include indicators for the battery that inform the driver when it's time to replace the battery. It's simple to replace the battery and you don't need special tools.

In certain instances, however, a smart key might stop working entirely. If you suspect this to be the case, you can reset it by getting out of the car and then re-entering it. This will allow the car to know that the key fob is inside the vehicle, and allow it to function again.

Contact a locksmith if you cannot get your key fob to work. They can reprogram the fob in order that it can be recognized by the car and you can utilize all of its features. This is usually less expensive than purchasing a new key and can save you money over time. In some instances, a locksmith can even modify an existing fob so that it can be used to make new keys. This could save you more money in the end.