7 Things You'd Never Know About Smart Car Key Programming
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
The smart key technology in vehicles allows drivers to open and start the car by touching the door handle or placing the key in the pocket. It also permits many other adjustments, including seat position as well as internal temperature settings and mirror positioning.
However, this can also create security concerns.
Security
Smart keys are computerized key fobs which communicate with the vehicle via an embedded antenna. This allows them to unlock doors and activate the motor. As opposed to traditional keys, which emit the same frequency signal every time they are used, smart keys transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the car they belong to. This makes it difficult for criminals with a technological edge to intercept or spoof the signal and use your key to steal your vehicle.
For instance, Mercedes' system -- called Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder that can identify the driver's keys. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a vehicle it automatically unlocks the door and tailgate, and the engine starts when a button on the key is activated.
Some smart keys, such as the ones made by BMW additionally have user-specific settings. These allow the driver to alter the mirrors, seat, steering wheel position, and even audio preferences with the press of a single button. They also come with a backup lock that stops the car from starting without the key in the ignition.
This technology protects drivers from getting their car locked accidentally especially when looking in a purse or a backpack for keys on parking lots with strangers or on a busy street where crime is high. A lot of systems will alert drivers when the battery of their key is not fully charged, though this feature varies from manufacturer the manufacturer.
Convenience
The smart key is ideal for those trying to get somewhere. You can lock, unlock and start your car by pressing the door handle or trunk release. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can be used to track charging, location, and other vehicle information.
It isn't safe to lock your keys in the car. The key fob communicates with an antenna in the vehicle to determine whether it's in range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This helps deter would-be thieves who might steal your vehicle in order to sell the parts.
BMW reports that the smart key utilizes rolling codes, as well as to protect against hacking and cloning. The computer inside the vehicle detects the code and validates it prior to launching the engine. Many systems also have a mechanical backup that is the key blade, which is hidden for styling purposes.
How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys also detect the keys when it is in use and adjust the vehicle settings according to the situation. If you turn on your vehicle while holding the key in your hand for instance windows and the sunroof will open to ventilate the interior. You can also set an upper limit on speed that will only be applicable when the vehicle is started using the specified key, which could be useful if you loan your car to an inexperienced 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, press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.
This will disable your smart key fob from transmitting or receiving any radio signals and will increase the battery life significantly. You can always activate the function by pressing both the unlock and lock button again.
Some smart keys also have anti-theft features to prevent them from being copied by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to stop unauthorized access to vehicles. The car's computer examines the code in milliseconds after the smart key is inserted. BMW offers a similar system with its Display Key, which comes with a small LCD color touchscreen on the smart key to make it easier, and lets drivers lock, unlock, and start their cars without ever removing it from their pockets.
Call Pop-A-Lock if you need to replace the battery on your smart key fob considering purchasing a car with smart-key. Our mobile locksmiths can replace the battery on any smart key and also help to set it up so that your car recognizes it.
Special Cases
Smart keys are not 100 100% secure against theft, but they do aid in deterring thieves. Smart keys are designed to stop hackers from hacking into the system. When they are placed in the ignition of the vehicle the computer checks the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz created this technology, which is now used by luxury car brands.
Another helpful feature is that the majority of smart key systems will continue to work if the user forgot the key in the trunk or left it at an eatery or lost it on the trail. G28 Car Keys will also notify the driver when the battery is low. Certain brands also offer key covers designed specifically for smart keys to protect the fob from damage.