7 Helpful Tricks To Making The Most Of Your Smart Car Key Programming
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
The smart key technology in vehicles allows drivers to unlock and start their car by simply rubbing the door handle, or putting the key in the pocket. It also permits various other adjustments like seat position the internal temperature setting and mirror positioning.
However, this could also lead to security concerns.
url are advanced computerized key fobs that communicate with a vehicle through one of the antennas built into the car to unlock doors and to start the engine. Smart key fobs, as opposed to traditional keys, which emit the same frequency each time they're used, transmit encrypted signals which are only compatible with the car to which they belong to. This makes it difficult for tech-savvy criminals to spoof or intercept the signal, and use your key to steal your car.
Mercedes' Keyless Go system for instance, comes with an internal transponder which identifies the key of the driver. The Smart Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and the tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also begins the engine by pressing the key.
Additionally certain smart keys- like those from BMW come with individual user settings that allow the driver to adjust the mirrors, seat and the steering wheel's position as well as audio preferences at the click of one button. They also come with a backup lock that will stop the car from starting if the key is not in the ignition.
This technology prevents drivers from being unable to lock their vehicle, especially when searching in bags or purses for keys in a parking lot with strangers or a busy street where crime is high. Many systems will also inform drivers if the key battery is low, but this feature may differ from manufacturer to the manufacturer.
Convenience
The smart key is ideal for those in a rush to get somewhere. By pressing the button on your trunk release lever or door handle, you can lock, unlock and start your vehicle. The key fob will also connect to your phone to keep track of charging locations, charging times and other details about the vehicle, explains Popular Mechanics.
One of the biggest advantages is that you don't be locked out. The key fob communicates with an antenna inside the vehicle to determine if it's in range. If not, the engine will not start. This will deter thieves from absconding with your vehicle and selling parts of it.
The smart key uses rolling codes to protect against hacking attempts as well as cloning, according BMW. The computer in the vehicle can recognize and verify the code before starting the motor. The majority of systems also have a mechanical backup that is an invisible key blade to be used for styling purposes.
Modern smart keys also detect the key that is being used 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 palm the windows and sunroof will open to let the cabin air dry. You can also set the speed limit to only be applied when the vehicle is started using the chosen key, a feature that could be helpful when lending your vehicle 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 do this simply press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.
This will disable your smart key fob from sending or receiving radio waves, which will extend its battery's life considerably. You can reactivate this function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.
Some smart keys have anti-theft features to prevent them from being stolen by thieves. For example, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to prevent unauthorized vehicle access. The car's computer checks the code milliseconds after the smart key is inserted. BMW utilizes a Display Key that has a tiny LCD screen with a color. This lets drivers lock their vehicles, unlock them, and then start them without removing the smart key from their pocket.
Contact Pop-A-Lock if your need to replace the battery on your smart key fob, or considering buying a car with a smart-key. Our mobile locksmiths will replace the battery of any smart key and also help to set it so that your car can recognize it.
Special Cases
Smart keys are not 100% theft-proof but they can help deter thieves. Smart keys are designed to deter hackers from hacking into the system. When they are inserted into the ignition of the car, the computer verifies the code in milliseconds. This technology was developed by Mercedes-Benz and is currently used by a number of high-end car brands.
Another great feature is that many smart key systems will continue to operate in the event that the user forgets the key in the trunk or left it in a restaurant or lost it on the trail. Certain systems will also inform the driver when the battery is not fully charged. Some brands offer key covers that are specifically designed for smart keys to protect the fob from damage.