Vehicle Smart Key Technology

Smart keys for vehicles allow drivers to open and start the car simply by touching the door handle or placing the key in the pocket. It also allows a variety of other adjustments, such as seating positions and temperature settings inside the car smart key, mirror positioning and stereo presets.

However, it could also result in security issues.

Security

Smart keys are key fobs that are computerized that communicate with vehicles through an embedded antenna. It can unlock doors and activate the motor. Smart key fobs, unlike traditional keys that emit the same frequency every time they're used, transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the specific car to which they belong to. This makes it harder for tech-savvy criminals to detect or spoof the signal and use your key to steal your car.

For example, Mercedes' system -- called Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder which can identify the driver's key. The smart car key replacement near me Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also begins the engine by pressing the key.

Additionally certain smart keyssuch as those from BMW -- have individual user settings that let the driver adjust the seat, mirrors and the position of the steering wheel as well as audio preferences at the push of a button. They also have an emergency lock that stops the vehicle from starting if it is not connected to the key.

This technology stops drivers from accidentally locking their vehicles and causing damage to their vehicle, particularly when searching the bag or purse to find keys in a parking lot with strangers or on a busy street where crime is high. Some systems will also notify drivers when the battery in their keys is low, but this feature may differ from manufacturer to manufacturer.

Convenience

If you're in a hurry get somewhere the smart key makes getting into your car as simple as it can be. By pressing the button on the trunk release or door handle you can open, lock and open your vehicle. The key fob will communicate with your smartphone to keep track of charging, location and other information about the vehicle, according to Popular Mechanics.

One of the biggest advantages is that you aren't able to accidentally get locked out. The key fob communicates with an antenna inside the vehicle to determine whether it's in range. If it's not in range, the engine will not start. This will deter thieves who may take your vehicle and sell the parts.

BMW reports that the Smart Car Key Programming key makes use of rolling codes, as well as to stop cloning and hacking. A computer within the vehicle detects the code and verifies it prior to starting the engine. The majority of systems have a mechanical back-up in the form an unnoticed key blade.

How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys also detect the keys used and adjust the car settings in accordance with the key's use. If you switch on the vehicle while holding the key in your hand, for example, the windows and the sunroof will be opened to let air circulate the interior. You can also set an upper limit on speed that will only be applied when the vehicle is started using the selected key, a feature that could be useful when loaning 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 simply press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.

This will block your smart key fob's smart chip from sending or receiving any radio waves, which will extend its battery's lifespan significantly. You can always reactivate the function by pressing the unlock and lock button again.

Some smart keys have anti-theft features that stop them from being stolen by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart key replacement key uses rolling codes to prevent the unauthorized access. The car's computer will check the code every millisecond after the smart key is placed. BMW utilizes a Display Key that has a tiny LCD screen with a color. This allows drivers to lock their cars, open them, and even start them without having to remove the smart key from their pocket.

If you're thinking about buying a new car that has a smart key, or you need the battery in your smart key fob changed, contact us at Pop-A Lock to get a quick and easy service. Our mobile locksmiths can replace the battery on any smart key, and will help to set it so that your car can recognize it.

Special Cases

While smart keys aren't theft-proof, they do help to hinder thieves. Smart keys employ rolling security codes to prevent hacking, and when placed in the ignition, the vehicle's computer can verify the code within milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz developed this technology, which is currently utilized by luxury car brands.

A smart key system will work even if you forget the key in the trunk or leave it in the restaurant. Some systems will alert the driver when the battery is not fully charged. Some brands offer key covers specifically made for smart keys that protect the fob from harm.