Why Everyone Is Talking About Smart Car Key Programming Right Now
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
The smart key technology found in vehicles lets drivers unlock and start their vehicle by simply rubbing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also permits various other adjustments including seat position and internal temperature settings as well as mirror positioning.
This can also cause security issues.
Security
Smart keys are key fobs that are computerized and communicate with a vehicle via one of the antennas that are embedded in the vehicle to unlock the doors and start the engine. Contrary to conventional keys, which emit the same frequency signal each time they are activated, smart keys transmit encrypted signals that only match the specific car they belong to. This makes it harder for thieves with advanced technology to spoof or intercept the signal and use your key to steal your vehicle.
Mercedes' Keyless Go system, for example, has an internal transponder that identifies the driver's key. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a car it will automatically unlock the tailgate and door and the engine will start when the key's button is press.
Furthermore there are smart keys that- like those from BMW have their own user settings that allow the driver to adjust seat, mirrors and the steering wheel's position and audio preferences with the click of the button. They also have an emergency lock that stops the vehicle starting without the key.
This technology assists drivers from accidentally locking their cars, especially when fumbling in a purse or backpack for keys in a parking lot full of strangers or in an area with high rates of crime. Many systems will also alert drivers when the battery of their key is not fully charged, though this feature varies by the manufacturer.
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If you're in a hurry to get to a place the smart key makes getting into your vehicle as simple as possible. By pressing the button on your trunk release or door handle you can unlock, lock and begin your vehicle. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used to monitor charging, location, and other information about your vehicle.
The main benefit is that you aren't able to accidentally lock yourself out. The key fob communicates to an antenna in the vehicle to determine whether it is within range. If not, the engine will not start. This will deter thieves who might steal your vehicle in order to sell its parts.
The smart key also employs rolling codes to deter hacking attempts as well as cloning, according BMW. The computer inside the vehicle recognizes the code and checks it before starting the engine. Most systems also have a backup mechanical system that is the key blade, which is hidden to be used for styling purposes.
How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys also detect the key being used and adjust the vehicle settings accordingly. If you turn on the vehicle while holding the key in your hand, for example the windows as well as the sunroof will be opened to let air circulate the interior. You can also set the speed limit which will only be applicable when the vehicle is started using the specified key, a feature that can be useful when loaning 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 activate this feature simply press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.
This will disable your smart key fob's smart chip from sending or receiving any radio waves that could extend its battery's life by a significant amount. You can always reactivate the function by pressing the unlock and lock button again.
Some smart keys also have anti-theft functions that stop them from being copied by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorised access to the vehicle. The car's computer is able to verify the code within milliseconds following the smart key is placed. BMW uses a Display Key that has a tiny LCD color screen. This allows drivers to lock their cars, open them, and even start them without having to remove the smart key from their pocket.
If you're considering buying a new car that has a smart key, or if you require the battery of your smart key fob changed, contact us at Pop-A Lock for a quick and efficient service. Our mobile locksmiths will change the battery of any smart key and help you set it up so that your car can recognize it.
Special Cases
Smart keys aren't 100% safe from theft, but they can help deter thieves. Smart keys are designed to keep hackers from gaining access to the system. When they are placed in the ignition of the car the computer validates the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz developed this technology, which is currently used by luxury car manufacturers.
Another helpful feature is that the majority of smart key systems will continue to operate if the user forgot the key in the trunk, left it at a restaurant or lost it during the trail. Certain systems will also inform the driver when the battery is depleted. Some brands offer keys with covers specifically designed for smart keys that protect the fob from damage.