Why Smart Car Key Programming Is Greater Dangerous Than You Think
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
The smart key technology that is found in vehicles enables drivers to unlock and start their vehicle by simply rubbing the door handle, or putting the keys in the pocket. It also permits many other adjustments, including the position of the seat as well as internal temperature settings and mirror position.
However, it could also lead to security concerns.
Security
Smart keys are highly sophisticated electronic keys that communicate with a vehicle through one of the antennas that are embedded in the vehicle to open the doors and start the engine. Contrary to conventional keys, which emit the identical frequency signal each time they are activated, smart keys transmit encrypted signals that are specific to the specific car they belong to. This makes it much more difficult for hackers with the latest technology to detect or spoof the signal, and then use your key to steal your car.
For example, Mercedes' system -known as Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder that can identify the driver's keys. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a car, it automatically unlocks the tailgate and door and starts the engine when the key's button is press.
Additionally some smart keyslike those made by BMW -- have individual user settings that allow the driver to alter the seat, mirrors, the position of the steering wheel as well as audio preferences at the push of the button. They also come with an emergency lock that stops the vehicle from running without the key.
This technology prevents drivers from locking their cars, particularly when fumbling in a purse or backpack to find keys in a parking area full of strangers or in an area with high crime rates. A lot of systems will also notify drivers when their keys are low on battery, although this feature is dependent on the manufacturer.
Convenience
If you're in a hurry get to a place the smart key makes entering your vehicle as easy as it can be. You can unlock, lock and start your car simply by pressing a button on the door handle or the trunk release. The key fob will also communicate with your smartphone to keep track of charging, location and other information about the vehicle, explains Popular Mechanics.
The main benefit is that you aren't able to accidentally lose your keys. car smart key with an antenna in the vehicle to determine if the key is in range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This is a deterrent to thieves who might take your vehicle and sell its parts.
The smart key also uses rolling codes to protect against hacking attempts and cloning, says BMW. A computer within the vehicle detects the code and verifies it prior to starting the engine. Most systems have a mechanical back-up in the form an invisible key blade.
Modern smart keys also know which key is in use and adjust the settings of the vehicle in line with the use of the key, says How Stuff Works Electronics. If you turn on the vehicle while holding the key in your hands, for example, the windows and the sunroof will open to allow air circulation to the interior. You can also set a speed limit that will only apply when the vehicle is started using the selected key, which could be useful if you loan 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 this feature simply press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.
This will block your smart key fob's ability to send or receiving any radio waves which will increase its battery's life considerably. You can always reactivate this function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.
Certain smart keys have anti-theft features to prevent them from being copied by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to stop unauthorised access. When a smart key is inserted into ignition, a computer within the car validates the code in milliseconds, before beginning the engine. BMW makes use of a Display Key that has a tiny LCD screen with a color. This lets drivers lock their vehicles, unlock their doors, and start them without having to remove the smart key from their pocket.
Contact Pop-Alock if you need to replace the battery on your smart key fob should you be thinking of purchasing a car that has a smart-key. Our mobile locksmiths can change the battery on any smart key, and will help to set it so that your car can recognize it.
Special Cases
Smart keys are not 100 100% safe from theft, but they can help deter thieves. Smart keys are designed to stop hackers from hacking the system. When they are inserted into the ignition of the vehicle, the computer verifies the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz invented this technology, which is currently used by luxury car brands.
Another useful feature is that the majority of smart key systems will continue to function in the event that the user forgets the key in the trunk or left it at an eatery or lost it during a hike. Certain systems will also notify the driver if the battery is running low. Certain brands also offer key covers specifically designed for smart keys that ensure that the fob is protected from harm.