What Is Smart Car Key Programming And Why Is Everyone Dissing It?
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
The technology of smart keys in vehicles allows drivers to unlock and start their vehicle by simply touching the door handle or by putting the key into the pocket. It also allows for a variety of other adjustments, including seats positions as well as internal temperature settings stereo presets, and mirror positioning.
However, this could result in security issues.
Security
Smart keys are highly sophisticated key fobs that are computerized and communicate with vehicles via one of the antennas that are embedded in the vehicle to open the doors and begin the engine. Unlike conventional keys, which emit the same frequency signal each time they are pressed, smart key fobs transmit encrypted signals that only match the specific car they belong to. This makes it more difficult for tech-savvy criminals to intercept or spoof the signal, and use your key to steal your vehicle.
Mercedes' Keyless Go system, for example, has an internal transponder that can identify 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 starts the engine when a button on the key is press.
Furthermore certain smart keyslike those made by BMW -- have individual user settings that let the driver adjust seat, mirrors and steering wheel position and audio preferences at the touch of one button. They also come with an emergency lock that stops the car from starting without the key in the ignition.
This technology helps drivers avoid getting their car locked accidentally especially when looking in a purse or a backpack for keys on an open parking lot with strangers or on a busy street where crime is high. A lot of systems will also notify drivers when the key is running low on battery, but this feature is different for each manufacturer.
Convenience
If you're in a hurry get somewhere the smart key makes getting into your car as easy as it can be. By pressing the button on your trunk release lever or door handle, you can open, lock and open your vehicle. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used to monitor charging, location, and other information about your vehicle.
You can't accidentally lock your keys inside the car. The key fob connects to an antenna inside the vehicle to determine if it is within range. If it's not in range, the engine will not start. This will deter thieves from stealing your vehicle and selling its parts.
BMW reports that the smart key uses rolling codes, as well as to prevent hacking and cloning. The computer in the vehicle detects and validates the code prior to starting the motor. Most systems also have a mechanical backup in the form of an invisible key blade for styling purposes.
Modern smart keys can also tell the type of key being used and adjust the car settings accordingly, notes How Stuff Works Electronics. For instance, if you turn on the car while holding the key fob in your palm, the windows and sunroof will open to let the air in the cabin breathe. You can also set the speed limit which will only apply when the vehicle is started using the selected key, which could be helpful when lending your vehicle 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 activate it, hold the lock button until you release it and press the unlock button.
This will block your smart key fob from sending or receiving radio waves and will increase the battery's life by a significant amount. You can always reactivate this feature by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.
Certain smart keys also have anti-theft capabilities that protect them from being copied by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle. When a smart key is put in the ignition, a computer in the car checks the code in milliseconds prior to beginning the engine. BMW uses a Display Key that has a small LCD screen with a color. This lets drivers lock their vehicles, unlock them, and even start them without removing the smart key from their pockets.
If you're considering purchasing the latest car equipped with a smart key, or if you require the battery in your smart key changed, contact us at Pop-A Lock for a fast and easy service. We can replace the battery in any smart key and our mobile locksmiths can assist you in setting the system so that your vehicle recognizes it.
Special Cases
Smart keys aren't 100% safe from theft, but they can help deter thieves. Smart keys employ rolling security codes to prevent theft, and when placed in the ignition, the vehicle's computer can verify the code within milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz developed this technology, which is now used by luxury car manufacturers.
smart forfour key replacement is that many smart key systems will continue to function even if the user has forgotten the key in the trunk, left it at the restaurant or if it is lost during a hike. Some systems will also alert the driver when the battery is depleted. Certain brands provide key covers specifically designed for smart keys to keep the key safe from damage.