8 Tips For Boosting Your Smart Car Key Programming Game
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
Vehicle smart key technology allows the driver to unlock and start the car simply by pressing the door handle or placing the key in the pocket. It also enables a range of other adjustments, such as seat positions and temperature settings inside the car, stereo presets and mirror positions.
However, it could also lead to security concerns.
Security
Smart keys are sophisticated computerized key fobs that communicate with a vehicle through one of the antennas built into the car to open the doors and to start the engine. In contrast to conventional keys that emit the identical frequency signal each time they are press, smart key fobs transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the car they belong to. This makes it more difficult for tech-savvy thieves to impersonate or intercept the signal and use the key to take your car.
For instance, Mercedes' system -known as Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder that can identify the driver's key. The Smart Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and the tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also allows you to start the engine by pressing the key.
Additionally there are smart keys thatsuch as those from BMW include individual user settings that allow the driver to adjust seat, mirrors and the steering wheel's position as well as audio preferences with the click of one button. They also have an emergency lock that stops the vehicle from running without the key.
This technology helps keep drivers from locking their cars, especially when they have to search their purse or backpack to locate keys in a parking space packed with strangers or on an area with high rates of crime. Some systems also notify drivers when their keys are not fully charged, however this feature is different for each manufacturer.
Convenience
If you're in a hurry to get to a place, the smart key makes getting into your vehicle as simple as possible. You can unlock, lock and start your car simply by pressing a button on the door handle or trunk release. The key fob will communicate with your smartphone to keep track of charging locations, charging times and other details regarding the vehicle, as explained by Popular Mechanics.
You don't want to accidentally lock your keys inside the car. The key fob is connected to an antenna inside the vehicle to determine if it's within range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This will stop thieves from taking your vehicle and then selling parts of it.
BMW reports that the smart key employs rolling codes as well to ward off hacking and cloning. The computer inside the vehicle is able to recognize the code and confirms it prior to starting the engine. Most systems have a mechanical backup system that is a key blade hidden in the.
How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys also detect when the key is being used and adjust the vehicle settings in accordance with the key's use. If you start the vehicle while holding the key in your palm, for example windows and the sunroof can be opened to allow fresh air to enter the interior. You can also set up the speed limit to only be applied when the vehicle is powered by the specified key. This feature can be beneficial if you're lending your car to a driver with no 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, press down the lock button and press the unlock button.
This will prevent your smart key fob's smart chip from sending or receiving any radio signals which will increase its battery life significantly. You can always activate this function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons again.
Certain smart keys also have anti-theft functions that stop them from being copied by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to stop unauthorized vehicle access. smart keys cars examines the code in milliseconds after the smart key is put in. BMW utilizes a Display Key that has a small LCD color screen. This allows drivers to lock their cars, open them, and even start them without removing the smart key from their pocket.
If you're thinking of buying a new car with a smart key, or if you require the battery in your smart key fob changed, contact us at Pop-A Lock for a quick and efficient service. Our mobile locksmiths will replace the battery on any smart key and also help you set it up so that your car recognizes it.
Special Cases
Smart keys are not 100 100% safe from theft, but they can assist in preventing thieves. Smart keys are designed to prevent hackers from hacking into the system. When placed in the ignition of the vehicle the computer checks the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz created this technology, which is now utilized by luxury car brands.
Another great feature is that many smart key systems will continue to work even if the user has forgotten the key in the trunk or left it at the restaurant, or lost it during a hike. Some systems will alert the driver when the battery is running low. Certain brands have key covers specifically designed for smart keys to keep the fob protected from damage.