8 Tips To Boost Your Smart Car Key Programming Game
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
Smart keys for vehicles allow a driver to unlock and start the car simply by pressing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also allows a variety of other adjustments like seat positions and internal temperature settings, stereo presets and mirror positions.
This can also cause security concerns.
Security
Smart keys are computerized key fobs that communicate with the vehicle through an embedded antenna to unlock doors and start the motor. Contrary to conventional keys, which emit the same frequency signal each time they are press, smart key fobs transmit encrypted signals that only match the specific vehicle they belong to. This makes it much more difficult for criminals with a technological edge to spoof or intercept the signal, and then use your key to steal your car.
For example, Mercedes' system -- called Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder that can identify the driver's key. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a vehicle it will automatically unlock the tailgate and door and starts the engine when the key's button is pressed.
Additionally some smart keyssuch as those from BMW include individual user settings that let the driver adjust the seat, mirrors and the steering wheel's position and audio preferences at the click of the button. They also have an emergency lock that prevents the vehicle from starting if the key is not in the ignition.
This technology assists drivers from locking their car, especially when they have to search their purse or backpack to find keys in a parking space filled with strangers or on an area with high crime rates. Many systems also notify drivers when their keys are in danger of being depleted, though this feature differs by manufacturer.
Convenience
If you're in a hurry get somewhere, the smart key makes entering your car as simple as it can be. You can lock, unlock and start your car simply by pressing the door handle or trunk release. Key fobs can also interact with your phone to keep track of charging, location and other data regarding the vehicle, as explained by Popular Mechanics.
You don't want to accidentally lock your keys inside the car. The key fob communicates with the antenna inside the vehicle to determine if the key is in range. If it's not, the engine won't not start. This can deter thieves who would take your vehicle and sell the parts.
BMW reports that the smart key makes use of rolling codes, as well as to ward off hacking and cloning. G28CarKeys in the vehicle is able to recognize the code and verifies it prior to launching the engine. Many systems also have a backup mechanical system that is an unnoticed key blade to enhance the appearance of the.
How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys can also detect the keys used and adjust the car settings accordingly. If you start the vehicle while holding the key in your hands for instance windows and sunroof can be opened to allow fresh air to enter the interior. You can also set up a speed limit that will only be applied when the vehicle is powered by the specified key. This feature could be useful when you lend your car to someone 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 do this you need to 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. It is possible to reactivate the function by pressing both the unlock and lock button again.
Some smart keys include anti-theft capabilities that prevent them from being copied by thieves. For example, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorized vehicle access. When the smart key is put in the ignition, a computer within the car confirms the code in milliseconds, before it starts the engine. BMW utilizes a Display Key with a small LCD screen with a color. This allows drivers to lock their cars, unlock their doors, and start the engine without having to take the smart key from their pocket.
If you're considering buying an automobile with a smart key, or if you require your smart key fob's battery changed, contact us at Pop-A Lock for a fast and easy service. We can replace the battery on any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths are able to help you set the system so that your vehicle recognizes it.
Special Cases
Smart keys are not 100 100% safe from theft, but they can help deter thieves. Smart keys use rolling security codes to avoid theft, and when placed in the ignition, the vehicle's computer verifies the code within milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz created this technology, which is currently utilized by luxury car brands.
A smart key system will continue to work even if you forget the key in the trunk or leave it in the restaurant. Some systems will alert the driver when the battery is low. Certain brands have key covers specifically made for smart keys that protect the fob from harm.