Vehicle Smart Key Technology

The smart key programing key technology that is found in vehicles enables drivers to unlock and start their vehicle by just touching the door handle, or putting the key in the pocket. It also permits a variety of other adjustments, including the position of seats, internal temperature settings, stereo presets, and mirror positioning.

However, it could also lead to security concerns.

Security

Smart keys are highly sophisticated computerized key fobs that communicate with a vehicle through one of the antennas built into the car to unlock the doors and to start the engine. Contrary to conventional keys, which emit the same frequency signal every time they are press, smart key Copy key fobs transmit encrypted signals that only match the car they belong to. This makes it harder for tech-savvy criminals to intercept or fake 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 vehicle, it automatically unlocks the tailgate and door and the engine will start when the key's button is press.

Certain smart keys, such as those from BMW are also equipped with user-specific settings, which allow users to alter the seat, mirrors and steering wheel's position and even the audio settings with the press of a single button. They also have an emergency lock that keeps the vehicle from starting without the key in the ignition.

This technology protects drivers from accidentally locking their vehicles, especially when searching in backpacks or purses for keys in a parking lot with people who are not familiar with the area or where crime is high. Many systems will also inform drivers when the battery of their key is low, though this feature may differ from manufacturer to manufacturer.

Convenience

The smart key is perfect for those in a hurry to get somewhere. By pressing the button on the trunk release or door handle, you can lock, unlock and open your vehicle. Key fobs can also interact with your phone to track charging locations, charging times and other details about the vehicle, says Popular Mechanics.

It isn't safe to lock your keys in the car. The key fob communicates with an antenna within the vehicle to determine if the key is in range. If not, the engine will not start. This will stop thieves from stealing your vehicle and selling its parts.

BMW reports that the smart key makes use of rolling codes to prevent hacking and cloning. A computer within the vehicle is able to recognize the code and confirms it prior to launching the engine. Most systems have a physical backup in the form of a hidden key blade.

Modern smart keys can also tell the key that is being used and adjust the vehicle settings accordingly, notes how to unlock a smart car without a key Stuff Works Electronics. For instance, if turn on the car while holding the key fob in your hand the windows and sunroof open to let air circulate through the cabin. You can also set the speed limit to only be applied when the vehicle is started using the selected key, which could be useful when loaning your car smart key replacement 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 you need to press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.

This will disable your smart key fob from sending or receiving any radio signals which will increase its battery life significantly. You can always activate the function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons again.

Certain smart keys come with anti-theft features that stop them from being stolen by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorized access to vehicles. When the smart key car key is inserted into ignition, a computer inside the car verifies the code in milliseconds prior to beginning the engine. BMW makes use of a Display Key with a small LCD screen with a color. This lets drivers lock their cars, unlock them, and even start them without having to remove the smart car key replacement near me key from their pockets.

Call Pop-A-Lock if you need to replace the battery in the smart key fob you have or considering purchasing a car that has a smart-key. Our mobile locksmiths will change the battery of any smart key and assist to set it up so that your car recognizes it.

Special Cases

Smart keys aren't 100 100% secure against theft, but they do assist in preventing thieves. Smart keys utilize rolling security codes to prevent the hacking of keys, and when they are placed in the ignition, the car's computer checks the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz created this technology, which is currently used by luxury car manufacturers.

A smart key system will work even if you forget the key in the trunk or leave it at the restaurant. Some systems will alert the driver when the battery is depleted. Certain brands also offer key covers specifically designed for smart keys. They ensure that the fob is protected from damage.