Vehicle Smart Key Technology

The smart key technology found in vehicles allows drivers to unlock and start their car by just touching the door handle or putting the keys in the pocket. It also allows many other adjustments, including seat position and internal temperature settings as well as mirror positioning.

However, this could also lead to security concerns.

Security

Smart keys are highly sophisticated computerized key fobs that communicate with vehicles via one of the antennas in the car to unlock the doors and begin the engine. Contrary to conventional keys, which emit the same frequency signal each time they are used, smart keys transmit encrypted signals that only match the specific car they belong to. This makes it harder for thieves with the latest technology to spoof or intercept the signal and use the key to steal your car.

Mercedes' Keyless Go system, for example, has an internal transponder that can identify the key of the driver. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a car it will automatically unlock the door and tailgate and the engine will start when a button on the key is press.

Additionally some smart keys for cars keyslike those made by BMW come with individual user settings that allow the driver to adjust the mirrors, seat and steering wheel position and audio preferences at the touch of one button. They also have a backup lock that keeps the vehicle from starting if the key is not in the ignition.

This technology assists drivers from locking their cars, especially when searching through a purse or backpack to find keys in a parking lot packed with strangers or on a busy street with high crime rates. Some systems also notify drivers when their keys are low on battery, although this feature varies by manufacturer.

Convenience

The smart key is perfect for those trying to get to their destination. You can unlock, lock and start your car by pressing the door handle or trunk release. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can be used to track charging locations, charging, and other vehicle information.

The main benefit is that you don't be locked out. The key fob communicates with an antenna within the vehicle to determine if it's in range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This will deter thieves from stealing your vehicle and selling parts of it.

BMW reports that the smart key makes use of rolling codes in order to ward off hacking and cloning. The vehicle's computer detects and validates the code before starting the motor. Many systems also have a mechanical backup in the form of the key blade, which is hidden to be used for styling purposes.

How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys can also detect when the key is in use and adjust vehicle settings accordingly. For instance, if you switch on the car while holding the key fob in the palm of your hand, the windows and sunroof will open to ventilate the cabin. You can also set the speed limit which will only be in effect when the car smart key programming near me is started using the chosen key, which 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 Car Key Coding 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 prevent your smart key fob from transmitting or receiving radio waves, which will extend its battery's life by a significant amount. You can reactivate this feature by pressing the unlock and lock buttons again.

Certain smart keys have anti-theft features to prevent them from being copied by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart car key recoding keys employ rolling codes to block unauthorized access. The computer in the car examines the code in milliseconds after the smart key is inserted. BMW offers a similar system with its Display Key, which comes with a small LCD color touchscreen on the smart key to make it easier and enables drivers to lock or unlock their cars without ever removing it from their pockets.

Contact Pop-A-Lock if your need to replace the battery on your smart car key reprogramming key fob should you be thinking of purchasing a vehicle with a smart-key. Our mobile locksmiths can change the battery of any smart key and help to set it up so that your car can recognize it.

Special Cases

While smart keys aren't security-wise, they can be used to discourage thieves. Smart keys employ rolling security codes to avoid the hacking of keys, and when they are placed in the ignition, the vehicle's computer verifies the code within milliseconds. This technology was developed by Mercedes-Benz and is now utilized by a variety of high-end car brands.

A smart key repair key system will function even if you lose the key in the trunk or leave it in a restaurant. Some systems will alert the driver when the battery is depleted. Some brands offer key covers that are specifically designed for smart keys to guard the fob from damage.