Vehicle Smart Key Technology

Smart keys for vehicles allow drivers to unlock and start the car by pressing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also permits various other adjustments like seat position as well as internal temperature settings and mirror positioning.

This can also lead to security worries.

Security

smart car key replacement near me keys are computerized key fobs which communicate with the vehicle via an embedded antenna to unlock doors and activate the motor. In contrast to conventional keys that 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 tech-savvy thieves to steal or spoof the signal and use the key to steal your car.

For instance, Mercedes' system -known as Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder which can identify the key of the driver. The Smart Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also allows you to start the engine by pressing a button on its key.

Some smart keys, such as the ones made by BMW additionally have user-specific settings. These allow the driver to adjust the seat, mirrors, steering wheel position, and even the audio settings with the press of a single button. They also have a backup lock that prevents the vehicle from starting without the key.

This technology prevents drivers from not locking their cars properly, especially when searching in backpacks or purses for keys on a parking lot with people who are not familiar with the area or where crime is high. Many systems also notify drivers when the key is low on battery, although this feature is dependent on the manufacturer.

Convenience

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

It isn't safe to lock your keys inside the car. The key fob communicates with an antenna in the vehicle to determine if the key is in range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This will stop thieves from the vehicle and stealing parts of it.

BMW reports that the smart key uses rolling codes, as well as to prevent hacking and cloning. The computer in the vehicle can recognize and verify the code before starting the motor. Most systems have a mechanical backup in the form of an unnoticed key blade.

How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys can also detect when the key is being used and adjust the vehicle settings according to the situation. If you turn on your vehicle while holding the key in your hand for instance windows and the sunroof will open to allow air circulation to the interior. You can also set a speed limit that will only be applicable when the vehicle is started using the specified key, which can be useful when loaning your car 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 activate this feature, hold down the lock button and press the unlock button.

This will prevent your smart key replacement key fob from sending or receiving radio signals and will increase the battery's life by a significant amount. You can reactivate this feature by pressing the unlock and lock buttons again.

Some smart keys include anti-theft features to prevent them from being copied by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorized access to vehicles. The car's computer checks the code milliseconds after the smart key is introduced. BMW utilizes a Display Key that has a tiny LCD screen with a color. This lets drivers lock their cars, open them, and start the engine without having to take the smart key from their pocket.

Contact Pop-Alock if you need to replace the battery on your smart key fob, or if you are thinking of purchasing a car with smart-key. Our mobile locksmiths will change the battery on any smart forfour key programming key and assist you set it up so that your car can recognize it.

Special Cases

Smart keys are not 100% theft-proof but they can help deter thieves. Smart key fobs are designed to deter hackers from gaining access to the system. When they are placed in the ignition of the vehicle the computer validates the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz created this technology, which is currently used by luxury car brands.

Another useful feature is that most smart key systems will continue to operate even if a user forgot the key in the trunk, left it at a restaurant or lost it on an excursion. Certain systems will also notify the driver if the battery is depleted. Certain brands provide key covers designed specifically for smart keys to guard the fob from damage.