Vehicle smart car spare key Key Technology

Vehicle smart key technology allows drivers to open and start the car by pressing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also permits a variety of other adjustments, like seats positions as well as internal temperature settings stereo presets, and mirror positioning.

This can also cause security concerns.

Security

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

Mercedes' Keyless Go system for instance, comes with an internal transponder which identifies the driver's keys. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a car it instantly unlocks the door and tailgate and the engine will start when a button on the key is activated.

Some smart car key programming keys, like those from BMW additionally have user-specific settings. These allow the driver to alter the seat, mirrors, steering wheel position, and audio preferences at the press of a single button. They also come with an emergency lock that stops the vehicle from running without the key.

This technology prevents drivers from not locking their cars properly particularly when they are searching bags or purses for keys on parking lots with strangers, or on a street where crime is high. Many systems also alert drivers when their keys are running low on battery, but this feature differs by manufacturer.

Convenience

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

You shouldn't lock your keys inside the car. The key fob is connected to an antenna in the vehicle to determine if it is within the range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This will stop thieves from absconding with your vehicle and selling parts of it.

BMW reports that the smart key utilizes rolling codes to stop cloning and hacking. A computer inside the vehicle reads the code and confirms it prior to starting the engine. Most systems also have a backup mechanical system that is the key blade, which is hidden to be used for styling purposes.

How to unlock a smart car without a key - https://elearnportal.science - Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys be able to detect keys being used and adjust the vehicle settings according to the situation. For instance, if start the car while holding the key fob in your palm, the windows and the sunroof are opened to let air circulate through the cabin. You can also set the speed limit to only apply when the vehicle is started with the selected key, a feature that 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 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, press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.

This will prevent your smart key fob's smart device from being able to send or receive any radio waves. This will greatly extend its battery life. You can always activate this function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.

Certain smart keys have anti-theft functions that stop them from being copied by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorised vehicle access. The car's computer will check the code every millisecond after the smart car key replacement key is inserted. BMW has a similar system with its Display Key, which includes an LCD touchscreen on the smart key for ease of use and lets drivers lock or unlock their vehicles without ever taking it from their pockets.

Contact us at Pop-A Lock if you require to replace the battery in your smart key fob or considering purchasing a car that has a smart-key. We can replace the battery on any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths are able to help you set it up so that your vehicle can recognize it.

Special Cases

While smart keys are not security-wise, they can be used to stop thieves. Smart key fobs are designed to stop hackers from gaining access to the system. When placed in the ignition of the car the computer validates the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz developed this technology, which is now used by luxury car brands.

A smart key system will continue to function even if you lose the key in the trunk or leave it at an establishment. Some systems will also alert the driver when the battery is running low. Certain brands provide key covers specifically made for smart keys that protect the fob from harm.