Vehicle Smart Key Technology

The smart key technology in vehicles allows a driver to unlock and start the car simply by pressing the door handle or placing the key in the pocket. It also permits many other adjustments like seat position as well as internal temperature settings and mirror position.

However, this could also result in security issues.

Security

smart car key not working keys are highly sophisticated key fobs with computers that communicate with a vehicle via one of the car's embedded antennas to open the doors and to start the engine. Smart key fobs, as opposed to traditional keys, which emit the same frequency each time they're pressed, transmit encrypted signals that are compatible with the particular car to which they belong. This makes it difficult for thieves with advanced technology to detect or spoof the signal and use your key to steal your vehicle.

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 car it instantly unlocks the tailgate and door and the engine will start when a button on the key is activated.

Some smart keys, like those made by BMW additionally have user-specific settings that allow the driver to adjust the seat, mirrors, steering wheel position, and even audio preferences with the press of a single button. They also have a backup lock that blocks the vehicle from running without the key.

This technology protects drivers from getting their car locked accidentally especially when looking in backpacks or purses to find keys in the parking lot of people who are not familiar with the area or where crime is high. Many systems also notify drivers when their keys are running low on battery, but this feature varies by manufacturer.

Convenience

If you're in a hurry get to a place, the smart key makes entering your car as simple as possible. You can lock, unlock and start your car by pressing the door handle or the trunk release. Key fobs can also communicate with your phone to keep track of charging locations, charging times and other details about the vehicle, according to Popular Mechanics.

A major benefit is that you can't accidentally lock yourself out. The key fob communicates with an antenna in the vehicle to determine whether it's within the range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This will deter thieves from stealing your vehicle and selling parts of it.

BMW reports that the smart key uses rolling codes to ward off hacking and cloning. The computer inside the vehicle recognizes the code and checks it before starting the engine. Many systems also have a mechanical backup that is an invisible key blade for styling purposes.

Modern smart keys can also tell the type of key being used and adjust the settings of the vehicle as needed, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. For example, if you switch on the car while holding the key fob in your palm the windows and sunroof can be opened to ventilate the cabin. You can also set the speed limit which will only apply when the vehicle is started using the chosen key, a feature that could be helpful when lending your car to an inexperienced 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 from having to send or receive any radio waves. This will significantly extend the battery's life. You can always activate this function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons again.

Certain smart keys have anti-theft functions that prevent them being stolen by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorized access to vehicles. The computer in the car will check the code every millisecond after the smart key is placed. BMW makes use of a Display Key that has a small LCD screen with a color. This lets drivers lock their vehicles, unlock them, and even start them without taking the smart key from their pocket.

Contact us at Pop-A Lock if you require to replace the battery on the smart key fob you have or if you are thinking of purchasing a car with smart-key. We can replace the battery on any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths can assist you in setting it up to make sure your vehicle recognizes it.

Special Cases

Smart keys aren't 100% safe from theft, but they can assist in preventing thieves. Smart keys are designed to deter hackers from hacking into the system. When placed in the ignition of the car the computer validates the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz invented this technology, which is now used by luxury car manufacturers.

A smart car key case forfour key programming - pop over here, key system will work even if you don't remember the key in your trunk or leave it at the restaurant. Some systems will also alert the driver when the battery is depleted. Certain brands provide key covers specifically designed for smart keys that keep the fob protected from harm.