Vehicle Smart Key Technology

Vehicle smart key technology allows drivers to open and start the car by touching the door handle or placing the key in the pocket. It also allows a variety of other adjustments, like the position of seats as well as internal temperature settings stereo presets, and mirror positioning.

This can also cause security worries.

Security

Smart keys are computerized key fobs that communicate with the vehicle using one of the antennas built into the car to unlock doors and to start the engine. In contrast to conventional keys that emit the identical frequency signal each time they are press, smart key fobs transmit encrypted signals that only match the specific vehicle they belong to. This makes it difficult for criminals with a technological edge to spoof or intercept the signal, and then use your key to steal your vehicle.

For instance, Mercedes' system -known as Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder that identifies the driver's key. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a car it instantly unlocks the tailgate and door and starts the engine when the key's button is pressed.

Additionally certain smart keys- like those from BMW come with individual user settings that let the driver adjust the seat, mirrors and the steering wheel's position as well as audio preferences at the push of a button. They also have the backup lock, which keeps the vehicle from starting if the key is not in the ignition.

This technology prevents drivers from accidentally locking their vehicles, particularly when they have to search their purse or backpack to find keys in a parking lot filled with strangers or on a busy street with high crime rates. Many systems will also alert drivers when the battery in their keys is low, but this feature varies from manufacturer manufacturer.

Convenience

The smart key is ideal for those in a hurry to get to their destination. By pressing the button on your trunk release or door handle, you can unlock, lock and get into your vehicle. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used for tracking charging location, charging status, and other information about your vehicle.

You don't want to accidentally lock your keys inside the car. The key fob is connected to an antenna inside the vehicle to determine whether it's within range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This helps deter would-be thieves who may steal your vehicle in order to sell its parts.

The smart key also uses rolling codes to deter hacking attempts and cloning, says BMW. A computer within the vehicle recognizes the code and confirms it prior to starting the engine. Most systems come with a mechanical back-up in the form a key blade hidden in the.

Modern smart keys also know 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 palm, the windows and sunroof open to let air circulate through the cabin. You can also set an upper limit on speed that will only be applied when the vehicle is started using the specified key, a feature that could be useful if you loan 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 make sure you 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 that could extend its battery's life considerably. You can always restart this feature by pressing the unlock and lock buttons again.

Some smart keys include anti-theft functions that prevent them being copied by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart keys utilize rolling codes to stop unauthorized access. When the smart key is inserted in the ignition, a computer inside the car verifies the code in milliseconds before 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 the engine without having to take the smart key from their pocket.

Contact us at Pop-A Lock if you require to replace the battery on your smart key fob, or considering purchasing a vehicle with a smart-key. We can replace the battery in any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths will assist you in setting it up so that your vehicle recognizes it.

Special Cases

While smart key replacement keys aren't safe from theft, they do assist to hinder thieves. Smart key fobs use rolling security codes that prevent theft, and when placed in the ignition, the vehicle's computer verifies the code within milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz invented this technology, which is currently utilized by luxury car brands.

Another benefit is that many smart key systems will continue to function even if the user has forgotten the key in the trunk or left it at an eatery or lost it on an excursion. Some systems will also notify the driver if the battery is not fully charged. Some brands offer key covers specifically designed for smart keys to protect the fob from damage.