8 Tips To Increase Your Smart Car Key Programming Game
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
The smart key technology in vehicles allows a driver to unlock and start the car by grabbing the door handle or placing the key in the pocket. It also permits a variety of other adjustments, including seat position as well as internal temperature settings and mirror positioning.
However, this can also cause security issues.
Security
Smart keys are key fobs that are computerized that communicate with the vehicle through an embedded antenna to unlock doors and begin the motor. As opposed to traditional keys, which emit the same frequency signal every time they are press, smart key fobs transmit encrypted signals that only match the car they belong to. This makes it difficult for tech-savvy criminals to detect or spoof the signal and use your key to steal your vehicle.
Mercedes' Keyless Go system For instance, it has an internal transponder that can identify the key of the driver. The Smart Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also starts the engine by pressing the key.
Some smart keys, like the ones from BMW are also equipped with user-specific settings that permit drivers to alter the mirrors, seat and steering wheel's position and even audio preferences with the push of a button. They also come with an emergency lock that stops the vehicle from running without the key.
This technology prevents drivers from locking their car, especially when fumbling in a purse or backpack for keys in a parking space filled with strangers or on an area with high rates of crime. A lot of systems will alert drivers when the battery in their keys is depleted, though this feature varies by manufacturer.
Convenience
The smart key is ideal for those trying to get somewhere. You can unlock, lock and start your car by pressing a button on the door handle or trunk release. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can be used to track charging location, charging status, and other information about your vehicle.
It isn't safe to lock your keys inside the car. The key fob connects to an antenna inside the vehicle to determine whether it is within the range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This is a deterrent to thieves who may steal your vehicle in order to sell its parts.
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. Most systems also have a mechanical backup in the form of the key blade, which is hidden to serve as a styling tool.
How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys can also detect when the key is when it is in use and adjust the vehicle settings according to the situation. For instance, if switch on the car while holding the key fob in your palm, the windows and sunroof open to let the cabin air dry. You can also set the speed limit to only be applicable when the vehicle is started using the selected key, which can be useful when loaning your car to a new 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 activate this feature, hold the lock button, then press the unlock button.
This will prevent your smart key fob's ability to send or receiving any radio waves that could extend its battery's life considerably. It is possible to reactivate the function by pressing the unlock and lock button again.
Some smart keys also have anti-theft capabilities that protect them from being copied by thieves. For example, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorized access to the vehicle. The car's computer will check the code every millisecond after the smart key is inserted. BMW also has a similar system with its Display Key, which has a small LCD color touchscreen on the smart key for ease of use, and allows drivers to lock and unlock their vehicles without ever taking the key from their pockets.
If you're thinking of buying an automobile with a smart key, or need the battery in your smart key replaced, call Pop-A-Lock for a fast and easy service. Our mobile locksmiths can replace the battery of any smart key, and will help to set it so that your car recognizes it.
Special Cases
Although smart keys aren't security-wise, they can be used to hinder thieves. Smart key fobs are designed to prevent hackers from hacking the system. When placed in the ignition of the vehicle the computer checks the code in milliseconds. This technology was invented by Mercedes-Benz and is now used by a variety of high-end car brands.
A smart key system will work even if you forget the key in the trunk or leave it at an establishment. Some systems will also alert the driver when the battery is low. Some brands offer key covers specifically designed for smart keys to protect the fob from damage.