Is Smart Car Key Programming As Important As Everyone Says?
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
Smart keys for vehicles allow drivers to open and start the car by touching the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also allows for many other adjustments such as the position of the seat the internal temperature setting and mirror position.
smart fortwo key fob can also cause security worries.
Security
Smart keys are key fobs that are computerized that communicate with vehicles through an embedded antenna. It can unlock doors and begin the motor. Smart keys, unlike conventional keys that emit the same frequency every time they're pressed, send encrypted signals that are only compatible with the vehicle to which they belong to. This makes it much more difficult for thieves who are tech-savvy to steal or spoof the signal and use the key to steal your car.
For instance, Mercedes' system -- called 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, some smart keys -like those made by BMW -- have individual user settings that allow the driver to adjust the mirrors, seat and the position of the steering wheel as well as audio preferences with the click of one button. They also have a backup lock that prevents the vehicle from running without the key.
This technology prevents drivers from locking their vehicles, particularly when fumbling in a purse or backpack to find keys in a parking lot full of strangers or in an area with high rates of crime. A lot of systems will also notify motorists when their keys are low on battery, although this feature is dependent on the manufacturer.
Convenience
The smart key is ideal for those in a hurry to get somewhere. By pressing the button on your trunk release or door handle you can unlock, lock and open your vehicle. The key fob can also connect to your phone to track charging, location and other data about the vehicle, according to Popular Mechanics.
You shouldn't lock your keys in the car. 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 deter thieves from stealing your vehicle and selling parts of it.
The smart key also makes use of rolling codes to deter hacking attempts as well as cloning, according BMW. The computer in the vehicle is able to recognize and verify the code before starting the motor. The majority of systems have a mechanical backup in the form of a key blade hidden in the.
Modern smart keys also know the key that is being used and adjust the settings of the vehicle as needed, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. If you turn on the vehicle while holding the key in your hand, for example windows and sunroof will open to ventilate the interior. You can also set up an automatic speed limit that will only be used when the car is powered by the selected key. This feature could be beneficial if you're lending 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 activate it make sure you press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.
This will prevent your smart key fob's ability to send or receiving radio waves which will increase its battery's life considerably. You can always activate the function by pressing both the unlock and lock button again.
Certain smart keys have anti-theft features to prevent them from being copied by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorised access. When the smart key is inserted in the ignition, a computer in the car checks the code in milliseconds before starting the engine. BMW utilizes a Display Key that has a small LCD color screen. This allows drivers to lock their cars, open them, and then start them without removing the smart key from their pocket.
If you're considering buying an automobile with a smart key, or need the battery of your smart key fob replaced, call Pop-A-Lock for a quick and simple service. Our mobile locksmiths will change the battery of any smart key, and will help you set it up so that your car can recognize it.
Special Cases
Smart keys aren't 100 100% theft-proof, but they assist in preventing thieves. Smart keys are designed to prevent hackers from hacking into the system. When they are inserted into the ignition of the vehicle the computer validates the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz developed this technology, which is currently used by luxury car brands.
A smart key system will work even if you forget the key in the trunk or leave it in the restaurant. Some systems will also alert the driver when the battery is low. Certain brands provide key covers designed specifically for smart keys to protect the fob from damage.