8 Tips To Boost Your Smart Car Key Programming Game
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
The smart key technology that is found in vehicles lets drivers unlock and start their car by just touching the door handle, or putting the keys in the pocket. It also permits a variety of other adjustments like the position of seats as well as internal temperature settings mirror position and stereo presets.
However, this could also lead to security concerns.
Security
Smart keys are advanced key fobs with computers that communicate with a vehicle through one of the car's embedded antennas to open the doors and begin the engine. Smart keys, unlike traditional keys, which emit the same frequency each time they're pulled, transmit encrypted signals which are only compatible with the car to which they belong to. This makes it difficult for tech-savvy thieves to impersonate or intercept the signal and use the key to take your car.
For instance, Mercedes' system -- called Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder that identifies the driver's keys. 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 a button on its key.
Certain smart keys, like those made by BMW, also have user-specific settings that permit users to alter the mirrors, seat, steering wheel position, and even the audio settings with the push of a button. They also come with an emergency lock that prevents the vehicle from starting if the key is not in the ignition.
This technology can prevent drivers from locking their cars, particularly when fumbling in a purse or backpack to locate keys in a parking lot full of strangers or in an area with high crime rates. A lot of systems will alert motorists when the battery for their key is depleted, though this feature may differ from manufacturer to the manufacturer.
Convenience
If you're in a hurry to get to a place the smart key makes getting into your car as easy as possible. By pressing the button on the trunk release or door handle you can lock, unlock and start your vehicle. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used for tracking charging or location as well as other information about your vehicle.
The main benefit is that you don't lose your keys. The key fob is connected to an antenna inside the vehicle to determine whether it's within range. If it's not, the engine won't start. This will stop thieves from absconding with your vehicle and selling parts of it.
The smart key also uses rolling codes to ward off hacking attempts and cloning, says BMW. The computer inside the vehicle can recognize and verify the code prior to starting the motor. Many systems also have a backup mechanical system that is an invisible key blade for styling purposes.
Modern smart keys can also tell the type of key being used and adjust the vehicle settings in line with the use of the key, says How Stuff Works Electronics. For instance, if start the car while holding the key fob in your hands, the windows and the sunroof are opened to let air circulate through the cabin. You can also set the speed limit which will only be in effect when the car is started with the selected key, which could be helpful when lending 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, hold the lock button until you release it and press the unlock button.
This will prevent your smart key fob's smart device from being able to send or receive any radio waves. This will greatly extend the life of its battery. You can always activate the function by pressing the unlock and lock button again.
Certain smart keys also have anti-theft features that prevent them from being copied by thieves. For smart car key replacement G28 Car Keys , Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorized access to vehicles. When the smart key is inserted into the ignition, a computer within the car checks the code in milliseconds prior to starting the engine. BMW also has a similar system with its Display Key, which includes a small LCD color touchscreen on the smart key for ease of use, and enables drivers to lock, unlock, and start their vehicles without ever taking it from their pockets.
Contact Pop-A-Lock if your need to replace the battery in your smart key fob or if you are thinking of purchasing a car with smart-key. We can replace the battery in any smart key and our mobile locksmiths are able to help you set it up so that your vehicle can recognize it.
Special Cases
Smart keys are not 100 100% secure against theft, but they do help deter thieves. Smart keys are designed to keep hackers from gaining access to the system. When they are placed in the ignition of the car the computer checks the code in milliseconds. This technology was invented by Mercedes-Benz and is now employed by a number of automobile brands that are luxury.
A smart key system will continue to function even if you lose the key in your trunk or leave it in the restaurant. Certain systems will notify the driver when the battery is low. Some brands offer key covers that are specifically designed for smart keys, to shield the fob from damage.