What is a Smart Key Car Key?

Smart keys are also known as proximity keys or key fobs. They work to unlock doors as well as start engines without needing to insert physical keys. They communicate with each other using radiofrequency signals.

Among other things, this helps protect vehicles by blocking attempts to connect hotwires. Smart keys also broadcast unique encrypted signals to prevent them from being used by other vehicles owned by drivers.

Convenience

Instead of putting keys into the ignition slot to lock and unlock your car by simply touching the door handle or trunk. A lot of modern cars also have an option that allows you to start your engine from a distance. This is especially helpful when you're bringing groceries in or transferring equipment and passengers.

This technology is designed to deter theft of vehicles. Smart keys send out encrypted signals instead of a single frequency, like a standard keyfob. How Stuff Works Electronics explains that this is a way to prevent other cars from receiving and responding to the same signal.

Certain manufacturers also have a computer chip inside the vehicle that detects the unique fingerprint of each key. This helps to ensure that only authorized users are using it. This is particularly useful if you loan your vehicle to family members or friends.

Some smart key for car keys can store user settings, so that the steering wheel, seat mirror, seat, and stereo presets are automatically set when the key is within the range of the car. For added convenience, some smart keys can be configured to stop the car from exceeding a specific speed limit once it has been started with that particular key. This can help keep unexperienced drivers safe, and is particularly beneficial if you have young children in the back of the vehicle.

Security

Traditionally keys were made from metal to unlock the ignition. Smart keys eliminate this requirement. Smart keys have an exclusive chip that sends an alert to your car's antenna. This signal is recognized by the vehicle when the driver presses a button on the handle on the door or trunk release. It is now impossible to lock your keys into your vehicle.

The signal sent by the smart key to your vehicle is encrypted to ensure that only you have access to it. Most models also disable the engine when the vehicle hasn't been started in some time. This feature is particularly helpful when you are in a dangerous location or need to leave your vehicle for any reason.

There are many systems that also have a backup system for opening and re-starting the car if the battery of the smart key for car key goes out during a ride. The backup system involves inserting the key into a slot, or holding it close to a certain area of the cockpit where the energy is transferred to an electric motor. Certain manufacturers also include an key blade that is an emergency mechanical lock in the key which can be used to open the trunk and start the car should it be needed.

Battery Life

The majority of newer cars have keyless entry systems and push-button starters. They are controlled by a smart device that communicates with the car via proximity technology. These systems use a tiny transmitter powered by a coin-sized lithium battery. It will eventually have to be replaced, just like any other battery.

Even though smart key fobs are designed to last for several years, they can suddenly lose power. If the fob's battery is dead you won't have the ability to unlock or start your car holding it close to the front door.

It is not unusual for the transmitter of a smart key drain the battery. It sends a signal back to the car every time you press a button, but most times, the smart key does nothing. The battery of a smart key can be used to power several years of locking and unlocking signals.

The fob may also drain the battery when it is placed in proximity to other devices that emit electromagnetic field, such as phones and computers. These devices emit magnetic fields of their own that can interfere with and slow down the fob's transmitter. In some cases, the fob may even stop working altogether when the fob is placed too close to these devices, according to RepairPal.

Maintenance

As opposed to the traditional car key, a smart one utilizes technology to control the locks on your vehicle as well as perform other functions. It works by sending a signal to antennas situated inside and outside of your vehicle. They detect the fob's signals and communicate with the car's computer. The car interprets the signal and allows you to open or begin it without using the physical key.

The fob is now the hub of many electronic features that are now available in new automobiles. The most obvious functions include locking and unlocking your car, remote starting and chirping sound to help you locate your car in a parking area. Some fobs also let you store specific settings for various drivers and open windows remotely and sunroofs.

The fob is a complex electronic device that has an integrated circuit board that can be damaged if it is placed in a position that is too harsh or exposed to extreme cold or heat. The transmitter can be broken in the event of it being damaged by a fall or a bang or smashed. The battery contacts may also be bent.

These issues can be difficult to identify and solve. You could try using your smartphone to get around the problem and see if that helps however, it's a good idea to keep a backup key in your pocket to use in case. You can buy a generic replacement for most OEM smart key for car near me keys for up 70% less and comes with a three-year better-than-OEM warranty.