15 Interesting Facts About Smart Car Key Programming You've Never Heard Of
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
Smart keys for vehicles allow drivers to unlock and start the car simply by touching the door handle or placing the key in the pocket. It also allows for a variety of other adjustments, including the position of the seat the internal temperature setting and mirror position.
However, it could also cause security issues.
Security
Smart keys are highly sophisticated key fobs with computers that communicate with a vehicle through one of the antennas built into the car to unlock doors and to start the engine. Smart keys, unlike conventional keys that emit the same frequency every time they're pressed, transmit encrypted signals which are only compatible with the particular car to which they belong. smart key replacement near me makes it more difficult for tech-savvy thieves to fake or intercept the signal and use the key to take your car.
Mercedes' Keyless Go system for instance, has an internal transponder that can identify the driver's keys. The Smart Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also starts the engine by pressing the key.
Additionally some smart keyslike those made by BMW come with individual user settings that allow the driver to alter the seat, mirrors, the steering wheel's position and audio preferences at the touch of a button. They also have a backup lock that prevents the vehicle from running without the key.
This technology prevents drivers from locking their vehicles, particularly when searching through a purse or backpack for keys in a parking lot packed with strangers or on a busy street with high crime rates. Many systems also alert motorists when their keys are in danger of being depleted, though this feature is dependent on the manufacturer.
Convenience
The smart key is ideal for those who are trying to get somewhere. By pressing the button on the trunk release lever or door handle, you can unlock, lock and open your vehicle. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used for tracking charging or location as well as other information about your vehicle.
It isn't safe to lock your keys inside the car. The key fob communicates with an antenna in the vehicle to determine whether it's within range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This helps deter would-be thieves who may steal your car to sell the parts.
The smart key uses rolling codes to prevent hacking attempts as well as cloning, according BMW. The computer inside the vehicle recognizes and verifies the code prior to starting the motor. The majority of systems also have a backup mechanical system in the form of an unnoticed key blade for styling purposes.
Modern smart keys also detect which key is in use and adjust the settings of the vehicle accordingly, notes How Stuff Works Electronics. For instance, if switch on the car while holding the key fob in your hand, the windows and sunroof open to let air circulate through the cabin. You can also set the speed limit which will only be applied when the vehicle is started using the chosen key, a feature that can be useful when loaning your car to a new 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 it, hold down the lock button and press the unlock button.
This will block your smart key fob from being able to send or receive any radio waves. This will dramatically extend the life of its battery. You can always activate this function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.
Some smart keys have anti-theft capabilities that prevent them from being stolen by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorized vehicle access. When the smart key is inserted in the ignition, a computer within the car checks the code in milliseconds prior to starting the engine. BMW also has a similar system with its Display Key, which features an LCD touchscreen on the smart key for ease of use and allows drivers to lock or unlock their cars without ever removing it from their pockets.
If you're thinking about buying the latest car equipped with a smart key, or if you require the battery in your smart key replaced, call Pop-A-Lock for a fast and easy service. We can replace the battery on any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths are able to assist you in setting the system so that your vehicle can recognize it.
Special Cases
Smart keys are not 100% theft-proof but they can assist in preventing thieves. Smart keys use rolling security codes to prevent theft, and when placed in the ignition, the vehicle's computer can verify the code within milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz invented this technology, which is currently used by luxury car brands.
Another great feature is that most smart key systems will operate in the event that the user forgets the key in the trunk, left it at the restaurant, or lost it on an excursion. Certain systems will also inform the driver if the battery is running low. Some brands offer keys with covers specifically designed for smart keys that protect the fob from damage.