10 Erroneous Answers To Common Smart Car Key Fob Replacement Questions: Do You Know The Correct Answers?
What Can a Smart Car Key Fob Do For You?
Also known as fobs, keyless entry or smart keys, they were introduced by Mercedes in 1998. These computer-controlled fobs are capable of performing many tasks including locking and unlocking the car, or getting it started.
They work by broadcasting an encrypted, rolling signal. This makes them more receptive to hackers with a technological edge.
Safety
A smart key fob communicates with a vehicle through radiofrequency waves. It transmits a low-power signal that, when pressed, instructs the car to open doors and start its engine. The car recognizes the unique encrypted code of a particular key fob. This means that if a key fob is stolen, the car will not be started.
A new vulnerability allows thieves to exploit this communication. Relay attacks are carried out using devices that transmit at the same frequency as keys. Thieves can put one of these gadgets in a purse or hiding location to thwart the lock command from a distance, says How Stuff Works Electronics. This is a problem which could become more frequent as more and more drivers switch over to smart keys.
A smart key fob is not only a security tool, but it can also make your life easier by automatically taking care of the needs of your vehicle. For instance the key fob connected to your smartphone can detect your proximity and unlock the doors, meaning you don't have to press the remote button. It can also detect when you're leaving the car and auto-lock the car, meaning you don't have to worry about not locking the doors. Many smart key fobs come with an indicator for the battery that alerts you ahead of time if the battery is at a low level. Most models allow you to replace the battery quickly and conveniently without any special tools.
Convenience
Smart keys are not required to be physically inserted in an ignition slot to open or start the car. BMW Group explains that the driver is only required to bring the key within the range of the car. Some smart keys, including the Display Key, have a small LCD touchscreen that gives drivers access to features like locking, unlocking and keyless start directly from their key fob without the need to connect to the Bluetooth system in the car.
Another way smart keys can help save time for drivers is by automatizing the process of locking their car doors when they leave it. This feature is offered in a wide range of automobiles, according to Consumer Reports, and can also help move into parking spots that are tight without causing injury to something or anyone.
Smart key systems generally do not send the same frequency signal repeatedly, as this could make them more vulnerable to relay attacks, as explained by Open Road Auto Group. Smart keys are unique to each vehicle, which means that a stolen car can't be hotwired. This technology makes it extremely difficult for thieves to steal a car.
Security
Today's newer cars pack in the most advanced electronic features ever before, and a few of those are located in the key fob. These devices do more than unlock and lock doors, or make chirping sounds that assist drivers in finding their vehicle in a parking lot However, some owners may not be aware of everything the things these smart key fobs are able to do.
Certain smart keys, for instance, will activate the automatic windows and sunroofs on a vehicle when you press. A auto editor from CR once walked out to her Honda Accord only to find all the windows down and sunroof open. This is one of the reasons she was so grateful for her Smart Key, which locked the car automatically.
Some smart keys use computer-encrypted signals to stop car thieves According to How Stuff Works. This technology prevents hotwiring, which is when thieves steal the vehicle's engine control module (ECM), which is typically located in the front of the engine block. The ECM manages a range of important functions, including engine power and transmission control.
Smart keys also come with anti-theft codes as well as a unique security code for ID assigned to each key. This could stop ignition if the wrong key is used. The security ID is a unique code that's transmitted from the ECM to the key when it's inserted into the ignition and then checked by a sensor inside the car.
Maintenance
Smart car key fobs do more than unlock the door. It can remotely start your engine, operate the brakes and suspension and even start your car. It also provides information about your car such as the level of your fuel and the oil temperature.
Like any piece of electronic equipment, a smart car key fob needs regular maintenance in order to function effectively. Modern key fobs have battery indicators to alert drivers when it's time to replace the battery. It's simple to replace the battery, and you don't need special tools.
In some cases the smart key might cease to function completely. If you suspect that this is the cause, try to reset the smart key by exiting the vehicle and coming back inside. This can help the car recognize that the fob is in place and allow it to get back to its normal function.
Contact a locksmith if you are not able to get your key fob working. They can reprogram it so that the car can recognize it and allows you to use all of its functions. It's generally cheaper to do this instead of buying an entirely new key fob and it can save you money in the long run. In certain instances, the locksmith can repair an existing key fob to be able to swap it as a replacement. This can save you money in the end.