There's A Good And Bad About Smart Car Key Programming
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
Smart keys for vehicles allow drivers to open and start the car simply by pressing the door handle or placing the key 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 cause security issues.
Security
Smart keys are sophisticated key fobs that are computerized and communicate with a vehicle through one of the antennas in the car to unlock the doors and to start the engine. smart fortwo key fob G28CarKeys , as opposed to 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 to. This makes it much more difficult for thieves with the latest technology to impersonate or intercept the signal and use the key to steal your car.
Mercedes' Keyless Go system for instance, comes with an internal transponder, which 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 turns on the engine by pressing a button on its key.
Some smart keys, such as those from BMW are also equipped with user-specific settings. These allow users to alter the mirrors, seat, steering wheel position, and audio preferences with the touch of a single button. They also have a backup lock that blocks the vehicle from starting without the key.
This technology prevents drivers from locking their vehicles, particularly when they are rummaging through their purses or backpack to find keys in a parking lot packed with strangers or on an area with high rates of crime. Many systems also notify drivers when keys are in danger of being depleted, though this feature varies by manufacturer.
Convenience
If you're in a hurry get to a place, the smart key makes getting into your car as easy as possible. By pressing the button on your trunk release lever or door handle, you can unlock, lock and open your vehicle. The key fob will also interact with your phone to keep track of charging locations, charging times and other details regarding the vehicle, as explained by Popular Mechanics.
The main benefit is that you aren't able to accidentally lock yourself out. The key fob communicates with an antenna in the vehicle to determine if it's within the range. If not, the engine will not start. This will stop thieves from taking your vehicle and then selling parts of it.
The smart key also uses rolling codes to deter hacking attempts and cloning, according to BMW. The computer inside the vehicle recognizes the code and confirms it prior to starting the engine. A majority of systems also have a backup mechanical system that is an invisible key blade for styling purposes.
How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys can also detect the keys when it is in use and adjust the vehicle settings in accordance with the key's use. For instance, if switch on the car while holding the key fob in the palm of your hand the windows and sunroof will open to let air circulate through the cabin. You can also set up a speed limit that will only be activated when the vehicle is powered by the chosen key. This feature is useful if you are lending your car to a driver 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 this feature, press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.
This will prevent your smart key fob's smart chip from sending or receiving radio waves that could extend its battery's life considerably. It is possible to reactivate the function by pressing both the unlock and lock buttons again.
Certain smart keys have anti-theft functions that prevent them being copied by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart keys employ rolling codes to prevent access by anyone who is not authorized to use it. The car's computer examines the code in milliseconds after the smart key is placed. BMW has a similar system with its Display Key, which has an LCD touchscreen on the smart key to make it easier and enables drivers to lock, unlock, and start their vehicles without ever taking the key from their pockets.
Contact us at Pop-A Lock if you require to replace the battery on the smart key fob you have or considering purchasing a car that has a smart-key. We can replace the battery in any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths will assist you in setting it up so that your car 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 deter hackers from hacking the system. When they are inserted into the ignition of the car, the computer verifies the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz developed this technology, which is now used by luxury car brands.
A smart key system will continue to work even if you forget the key in your trunk or leave it at a restaurant. Certain systems will also notify the driver when the battery is running low. Some brands offer key covers specifically designed for smart keys that keep the fob protected from harm.