Vehicle Smart Key Technology

The smart key technology in vehicles enables drivers to unlock and start their car by simply rubbing the door handle, or placing the key into the pocket. It also allows for a variety of other adjustments, like seat positions and internal temperature settings, mirror positioning and stereo presets.

However, it could also create security concerns.

Security

Smart keys are computerized key fobs that communicate with the vehicle through an embedded antenna. It can unlock doors and begin the motor. Unlike conventional keys, which emit the same frequency signal each time they are activated, smart keys transmit encrypted signals that only match the specific vehicle they belong to. This makes it more difficult for thieves with a technological edge to fake or intercept the signal and use the key to take your car.

Mercedes' Keyless Go system For instance, it has an internal transponder that can identify the driver's keys. The Smart Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and the tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also starts the engine by pressing the key.

Furthermore, some smart keys -such as those from BMW -- have individual user settings that let the driver adjust the mirrors, seat and the steering wheel's position as well as audio preferences at the click of a button. They also have an emergency lock that keeps the vehicle from starting without the key in the ignition.

This technology prevents drivers from accidentally locking their cars, especially when searching through a purse or backpack to find keys in a parking area packed with strangers or on a busy street with high crime rates. Some systems will also notify drivers when the battery of their key is depleted, though this feature may differ from manufacturer to the manufacturer.

Convenience

The smart key for smart car is ideal for those who are in a hurry to get to their destination. By pressing the button on your trunk release or door handle you can open, lock and get into your vehicle. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used to track charging locations, charging, and other vehicle information.

It isn't safe to lock your keys inside the car. The key fob communicates to an antenna inside the vehicle to determine if it's within the range. If it's not in range, the engine will not start. This is a deterrent to thieves who would steal your vehicle in order to sell its parts.

BMW reports that the smart key utilizes rolling codes to protect against hacking and cloning. A computer inside the vehicle is able to recognize the code and verifies it before starting the engine. Most systems have a mechanical backup in the form of a key blade hidden in the.

How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys also detect the keys in use and adjust vehicle settings in line with the use of the key. If you turn on the vehicle while holding the key in your hand for instance windows and the sunroof can be opened to allow fresh air to enter the interior. You can also set up an automatic speed limit that will only be in effect when the car is powered by the specified key. This feature is useful if you are lending your vehicle to a person with no experience.

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 this feature you need to press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.

This will block your smart key fob to send or receive any radio waves. This will significantly extend the life of its battery. You can reactivate this feature by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.

Certain smart keys have anti-theft features to prevent them from being copied by thieves. For example, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle. When the smart key is inserted into ignition, a computer in the car confirms the code in milliseconds before beginning the engine. 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 allows drivers to lock and unlock their vehicles without ever taking the key from their pockets.

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

Special Cases

Smart keys aren't 100% theft-proof, but they aid in deterring thieves. Smart keys utilize rolling security codes to protect against hackers, and when put in the ignition, the car's computer can verify the code within milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz invented this technology, which is now utilized by luxury car brands.

Another benefit is that many smart key systems will continue to work in the event that the user forgets the key in the trunk, left it at a restaurant or lost it during a hike. Certain systems will also notify the driver when the battery is not fully charged. Some brands offer key covers specifically made for smart keys that protect the fob from damage.