10 Things We Love About Smart Car Key Fob Replacement
What Can a Smart Car Key Fob Do For You?
Known as fobs, keyless entry or smart keys, they were first introduced by Mercedes in 1998. These key fobs controlled by computers can perform a variety of functions, including locking and unlocking a vehicle and even starting it.
They operate by broadcasting an encrypted, rolling signal. This keeps them safer from thieves who are tech-savvy.
Safety
A smart key fob communicates constantly with a vehicle via radiofrequency waves. It transmits a low-power signal that, when pressed tells the car to unlock doors and begin its engine. The car is programmed to recognize the unique encryption code of a specific key fob. This means that even if the key fob is stolen, it can't be used to start the car.
A new vulnerability allows thieves to exploit this method of communication. Relay attacks employ devices which transmit on the same frequency as the key fob. Thieves can put one of these gadgets in a pocket or hiding spot to jam the lock command from a distance, says How Stuff Works Electronics. This is a risk that may become more common as more people are switching to smart keys.
Apart from these security features, the smart key fob can make life easier by automatically tending to your vehicle's needs. A key fob linked to your smartphone, for example it can detect your presence and open the doors so you don't need to push the remote button. It also can detect when you're leaving the car and auto-lock the vehicle, so you don't have to worry about forgetting to lock the doors. A lot of smart key fobs come with an indicator of the battery that tells you in advance that the battery is low. Most models allow you to replace the battery quickly and conveniently without any special tools.
Convenience
Unlike a traditional metal key Smart keys do not require physical insertion into an ignition slot in order to unlock or start the vehicle. BMW Group explains that the driver is only required to bring the key within the range of the car. Some smart keys, like the Display Key, come with a small LCD touchscreen that grants drivers access to features such as locking, unlocking, and keyless starting directly from their key fob, without the need to connect the Bluetooth system of the car.
Another way that smart keys can help drivers save time is by automating the process of locking their doors when they leave it. Consumer Reports says that this feature is offered on a number of vehicles. It also makes it easier for drivers to maneuver into tight spots without accidentally squeezing the door or something else.
Additionally, smart key systems do not typically transmit the same frequency signal repeatedly and this can make them more vulnerable to relay attacks, according to Open Road Auto Group. In this way it is impossible for a stolen car to be hotwired if it is equipped with a smart key because the encrypted signal that the key fob transmits is unique to each car. This technology makes it incredibly difficult for thieves to steal a car.
smart key for car of the high-tech electronic features in today's newer automobiles can be found in the key fob. These devices can do more than just unlock and lock doors, or make chirping sounds to help drivers find their car in a parking space However, some drivers may not be aware of all that smart key fobs do.
Certain smart keys, for instance, will activate the auto windows and sunroofs of an automobile when they are pressed. One auto editor at CR was able to walk into her Honda Accord to find the windows closed and the sunroof completely open. She was grateful for her Smart Key that automatically locked the car.
Some smart keys employ computer-encrypted signals to thwart car burglars, according to How Stuff Works. This technology is able to prevent hotwiring in which thieves steal the engine control module (ECM), which is typically located on the front of the engine block. The ECM regulates a variety of vital functions, such as engine power and transmission control.
Other technologies in smart keys include anti-theft codes and a unique security ID assigned to each key, which could disable the ignition in the event that it's not the right one. The security ID is a digit that is transmitted by the ECM from the key to the ignition followed by verification by a sensor inside the car.
Maintenance
Smart car key fobs can do more than unlock the door. It can remotely start your engine, trigger suspension and brakes, and even start your car. It can also provide information about your car including the level of fuel and the temperature of your oil.
Like any piece of electronic equipment like a smart car key fob needs regular maintenance to ensure it functions effectively. Modern key fobs feature battery indicators to alert the driver when it is time to replace the battery. It's simple to replace the battery, and you don't need any special tools.
In some cases the smart key might stop working completely. If you suspect that's the case, attempt to reset it by getting out of the car and then returning inside. This will help the car recognize that the fob is active and allow it be functional again.
Contact a locksmith in the event that you have trouble getting your key fob to work. They can reprogram your fob so that it can be recognized by your car and you can use all its features. This is usually less expensive than buying a new fob and could save you money over the course of time. In some cases locksmiths are able to repair an existing fob to allow it to be used to make new keys. This can help you save more money in the long run.