Vehicle Smart Key Technology

smart key programming near me keys in vehicles allow a driver to unlock and start the car simply by grabbing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also allows for many other adjustments like seat position the internal temperature setting and mirror positioning.

This could also raise security worries.

Security

Smart keys are key fobs that are computerized which communicate with the vehicle via an embedded antenna to unlock doors and start the motor. As opposed to traditional keys, which emit the same frequency signal each time they are activated, smart keys transmit encrypted signals that are specific to the car they belong to. This makes it difficult for criminals with a technological edge to intercept or spoof the signal, and then use your key to steal your car.

Mercedes' Keyless Go system for instance, has an internal transponder which identifies the key of the driver. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a vehicle it instantly unlocks the tailgate and door, and the engine starts when a button on the key is press.

Additionally certain smart keys- like those from BMW -- have individual user settings that allow the driver to adjust the seat, mirrors and steering wheel position and audio preferences at the push of the button. They also have the backup lock, which stops the car from starting if the key is not in the ignition.

This technology can prevent drivers from locking their cars, particularly when searching through a purse or backpack to find keys in a parking lot full of strangers or in a busy street with high rates of crime. Many systems also notify motorists when their keys are running low on battery, but this feature varies by manufacturer.

Convenience

The smart car key fob replacement key is perfect for those who are trying to get to their destination. By pressing the button on your trunk release or door handle, you can lock, unlock and get into your vehicle. The key fob will also interact with your phone to track charging, location and other data about the vehicle, according to Popular Mechanics.

It isn't safe to lock your keys in the car. The key fob communicates with an antenna in the vehicle to determine if it is within the range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This is a deterrent to thieves who may steal your vehicle to sell its parts.

The smart key also makes use of rolling codes to deter hacking attempts and cloning, reports BMW. The computer inside the vehicle detects and validates the code prior to launching the motor. Many systems also have a mechanical backup in the form of an unnoticed key blade for styling purposes.

Modern smart keys also detect which keys are in use and adjust the vehicle settings in line with the use of the key, says How Stuff Works Electronics. If you turn on your vehicle while holding the key in your hands for instance, the windows and the sunroof can be opened to allow fresh air to enter the interior. You can also set an upper limit on speed that will only apply when the vehicle is started using the specified key, a feature that could be helpful when lending your car to a new smart car key 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 you need to press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.

This will stop your smart key fob's smart chip from sending or receiving radio waves and will increase the battery's lifespan significantly. You can always reactivate this feature by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.

Certain smart car Key Programming keys have anti-theft features to prevent them from being copied by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart fortwo key fob keys use rolling codes to block unauthorised access to vehicles. The computer in the car is able to verify the code within milliseconds following the smart key is introduced. BMW offers a similar system with its Display Key, which features an LCD touchscreen on the smart key to make it easier and allows drivers to lock or unlock their cars without ever removing it from their pockets.

Call Pop-A-Lock if you need to replace the battery on your smart key fob, or in the event that you are thinking of purchasing a car that has a smart fortwo key fob-key. Our mobile locksmiths will change the battery of any smart key and help to set it so that your car recognizes it.

Special Cases

Although smart keys aren't safe from theft, they do assist to discourage thieves. Smart keys utilize rolling security codes to protect against theft, and when placed in the ignition, the vehicle's computer verifies the code within milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz invented this technology, which is currently used by luxury car brands.

A smart key system will function even if you lose the key in the trunk or leave it in a restaurant. Some systems will alert the driver when the battery is low. Certain brands provide keys with covers specifically designed for smart keys to guard the fob from damage.