15 Smart Car Key Programming Benefits Everybody Should Be Able To
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
Smart keys in vehicles allow a driver to unlock and start the car by pressing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also allows a variety of other adjustments, including seat positions, internal temperature settings, mirror position and stereo presets.
However, this could also lead to security concerns.
Security
Smart keys are sophisticated key fobs that are computerized and communicate with a vehicle via one of the antennas in the car to unlock doors and start the engine. Smart key fobs, as opposed to conventional keys that emit the same frequency every time they're used, transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the specific car to which they belong. This makes it more difficult for thieves with a technological edge to impersonate or intercept the signal and use the key to steal your car.
For example, Mercedes' system -- called Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder, which identifies the driver's key. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a vehicle it instantly unlocks the tailgate and door and starts the engine when the key's button is hit.
Furthermore there are smart keys that- like those from BMW include individual user settings that let the driver alter the seat, mirrors, the position of the steering wheel as well as audio preferences at the push of the button. They also come with a backup lock that prevents the vehicle from starting without the key in the ignition.
This technology assists drivers from locking their car, especially when they are rummaging through their purses or backpack to find keys in a parking lot packed with strangers or on an area with high rates of crime. A lot of systems will alert motorists when the battery for their key is depleted, though this feature varies from manufacturer manufacturer.
Convenience
If you're in a hurry get to a place the smart key makes getting into your car as simple as possible. You can lock, unlock and start your car simply by pressing a button on the door handle or trunk release. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can be used to track charging, location, and other vehicle information.
The main benefit is that you won't accidentally lock yourself out. The key fob communicates with an antenna inside the vehicle to determine if it's in range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This helps deter would-be thieves who may steal your vehicle to sell its parts.
BMW reports that the smart key employs rolling codes to prevent hacking and cloning. The computer inside the vehicle recognizes and verifies the code before starting the motor. Most systems also have a mechanical backup in the form of the key blade, which is hidden to be used for styling purposes.
Modern smart keys also know the type of key being used and adjust the settings of the vehicle in line with the use of the key, says How Stuff Works Electronics. For example, if you turn on the car holding the key fob in your hands, the windows and sunroof will open to ventilate the cabin. You can also set a speed limit which will only be activated when the vehicle is powered by the selected key. This feature could be useful if you're loaning your car to a driver who has no prior experience.
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 the lock button, then press the unlock button.
This will stop your smart key fob's smart device from being able to transmit or receive radio waves. This will significantly increase the battery's life. You can always reactivate the function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons again.
Certain smart keys come with anti-theft capabilities that prevent them from being stolen by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to prevent unauthorized access to vehicles. The computer in the car will check the code every millisecond after the smart key is introduced. BMW also has a similar system with its Display Key, which includes an LCD touchscreen on the smart key for convenience, and allows drivers to lock, unlock, and start their vehicles without ever taking it from their pockets.
Contact us at Pop-A Lock if you require to replace the battery on the smart key fob you have or in the event that you are thinking of purchasing a car with smart-key. We can replace the battery in any smart key and our mobile locksmiths can help you set the system so that your vehicle can recognize it.
Special Cases
Although smart keys aren't safe from theft, they do assist to deter thieves. Smart key fobs are designed to stop hackers from hacking the system. When smart car key programmer are placed in the ignition of the vehicle the computer validates the code in milliseconds. This technology was developed by Mercedes-Benz and is now used by many luxury car brands.
A smart key system will work even if you forget the key in your trunk or leave it at an establishment. Some systems will alert the driver when the battery is depleted. Certain brands provide key covers specifically designed for smart keys. They protect the fob from harm.