8 Tips To Up Your Smart Car Key Programming Game
smart key for car found in automobiles allows drivers to open and start their car by simply touching the door handle, or putting the keys in the pocket. It also allows a variety of other adjustments, including the position of the seat and internal temperature settings as well as mirror positioning.
However, it could also create security concerns.
Security
Smart keys are sophisticated electronic keys that communicate with a vehicle through one of the antennas in the car to unlock doors and start the engine. Smart keys, unlike traditional keys, which emit the same frequency every time they're pulled, transmit encrypted signals that are compatible with the particular car to which they belong. This makes it much more difficult for thieves who are tech-savvy to impersonate or intercept the signal and use the key to take your car.
For example, Mercedes' system -- called Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder, which identifies the key of the driver. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a car, it automatically unlocks the door and tailgate and the engine will start when a button on the key is activated.
Some smart keys, like those from BMW are also equipped with user-specific settings, which allow users to alter the seat, mirrors and steering wheel's position and audio preferences at the click of a button. They also have the backup lock, which stops the vehicle from starting if it is not connected to the key.
This technology stops drivers from not locking their cars properly, especially when searching in bags or purses for keys on an open parking lot with strangers or on a busy street where crime is high. Some systems also notify drivers when the key is running low on battery, but this feature differs by manufacturer.
Convenience
The smart key is ideal for those in a rush to get somewhere. You can unlock, lock and start your car simply by pressing a button on the door handle or the trunk release. The key fob can also communicate with your phone to keep track of charging and location as well as other information about the vehicle, according to Popular Mechanics.
A big benefit is that you aren't able to accidentally lose your keys. The key fob communicates with an antenna within the vehicle to determine if it's within range. If it's not, the engine won't start. This will stop thieves from taking your vehicle and then selling parts of it.
The smart key also makes use of rolling codes to protect against hacking attempts and cloning, reports BMW. A computer in the vehicle reads the code and confirms it prior to launching the engine. Most systems come with a mechanical back-up in the form a key blade hidden in the.
Modern smart keys also detect which keys are in use and adjust the settings of the vehicle in line with the use of the key, says How Stuff Works Electronics. If you start the vehicle while holding the key in your hand for instance the windows as well as the sunroof can be opened to allow fresh air to enter the interior. You can also set a speed limit that will only be applicable when the vehicle is started with the selected key, a feature that could be helpful when lending your car to a novice 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 you need to press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.
This will make it impossible for your smart key fob from being able to transmit or receive radio waves. This will greatly extend the life of its battery. You can always activate the function by pressing both the lock and unlock buttons again.
Some smart keys have anti-theft features that stop them from being stolen by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to stop unauthorized access to the vehicle. The car's computer will check the code every millisecond after the smart key is inserted. BMW uses a similar method with its Display Key, which has an LCD touchscreen on the smart key for convenience, and enables 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 if you require the battery in your smart key replaced, call us at Pop-Alock for a fast and easy service. We can replace the battery in any smart key and our mobile locksmiths can help you set it up to make sure your vehicle recognizes it.
Special Cases
Smart keys are not 100 100% safe from theft, but they can aid in deterring thieves. Smart keys use rolling security codes to prevent the hacking of keys, and when they are placed in the ignition, the car's computer can verify the code within milliseconds. This technology was invented by Mercedes-Benz and is now utilized by a number of automobile brands that are luxury.
A smart key system will continue to work even if you don't remember the key in the trunk or leave it in the restaurant. Certain systems will notify the driver when the battery is depleted. Certain brands provide key covers specifically designed for smart keys to protect the fob from damage.