Why Replacement Key For Smart Car Isn't As Easy As You Think What is a Smart Key Car Key?

Differently referred to as keys for proximity, key fobs or remote keys, smart keys work to unlock doors and start engines without having to insert the key. They communicate by radiofrequency signals.

This helps keep vehicles secure by stopping hotwiring. Smart keys broadcast unique encrypted signals that block them from being used by other vehicles.

Convenience

You can lock and unlock your vehicle without needing to insert the key into the ignition slot. Simply press the handle of the door or trunk. A majority of modern cars also have a feature which allows you to start your car via the internet. This is particularly useful when you're bringing groceries in or transporting equipment and passengers.

This technology is designed to help stop theft of vehicles. Instead of sending a single frequency signal, like a traditional key fob smart keys send out several encrypted signals to a car's embedded antennas as you walk towards it. This stops other vehicles from receiving and responding to the same signal, explains How Stuff Works Electronics.

Some manufacturers also include an electronic chip in the vehicle that detects the unique fingerprint of every key. This makes sure that only authorized users are using it. This is useful if you lend your car to friends and family members.

Some smart keys also store user settings, so that seat, steering wheel, mirror and stereo presets are automatically set when the key is within the range of the vehicle. Some smart keys can also be set up to prevent the vehicle from crossing the speed limit once it is started using that key. This is a great way to keep new drivers safe, and it's also recommended when you have children in the back of the vehicle.

Security

Traditionally keys were made from metal to unlock the ignition. With smart key technology, it is no longer the case. Smart keys are equipped with a special chip that sends the signal to your car's antenna. The signal is then detected by the vehicle when the driver presses on the door handle or trunk release. It is now impossible to lock the keys inside your vehicle.

The signal sent by the smart key to your vehicle is encrypted so that only you have access to it. Additionally, the majority of models will turn off the engine if the vehicle is not launched in the past few minutes. This feature is particularly useful if you're in an unsafe area or you have to leave the vehicle for reasons other than at a gas station.

Furthermore, if the smart key battery runs out during a trip, many systems have a backup method to open and start the vehicle. The backup system typically involves placing the key in the slot or placing it near a specific area of the cockpit, which transfers energy to an electric motor. Some manufacturers have a motorized key blade that can be utilized in a situation of emergency to open the trunk or start the vehicle.

Battery Life

The majority of modern cars have keyless entry systems as well as push-button starters. These are controlled by a smart device that communicates with the car through proximity technology. These systems are powered by a tiny transmitter which is powered by a lithium coin-sized battery. As with all batteries that will eventually require replacement.

Most smart key fob batteries last for several years however, that doesn't mean they'll never lose power and stop working abruptly. If the fob battery is dead, it won't be able unlock or start your car if you hold it up near the front door.

It is not uncommon to see the transmitter of a smart key drain the battery. The smart key transmits an alert each when you press the button. But most of the time, it does nothing. A single signal to lock or unlock takes up a miniscule amount of the battery power in the fob and, therefore, there's several years worth of signals worth of battery life in an average smart key battery.

smart key fob G28 Car Keys may also drain the battery if located near other devices which emit electromagnetic field like phones and computers. These devices emit their own magnetic fields, which can interfere and slow down the fob's transmitter. RepairPal reports that the fob might cease to function if placed too close to the gadgets.

Maintenance

As opposed to the traditional car key, a smart one utilizes technology to control the locks on your vehicle, and also perform other functions. It functions by sending a signal from the fob to antennas in and outside the vehicle. These antennas sense the signal and communicate with your car's computer. The car responds to the signal and allows you to open and start it without the physical key.

New vehicles are loaded with the latest electronic technology, and the fob has become an interface for many of these functions. The most obvious ones are locking and unlocking, remote starting and chirping sounds to help you find your car in a parking space. Some fobs allow you to store specific settings for different drivers and remotely open windows and sunroofs.


The fob itself is a specialized device that has an integrated circuit board and it could be damaged by hard use or exposure to cold or hot. The transmitter may break if it's knocked or dropped. The battery contacts can become bent.

The issues are often difficult to identify and fix. You can try using your smartphone to get around the issue and see if that works however it's always a good idea to keep a spare key inside your pocket in a case. You can purchase a generic smart key replacement that's up to 70% less than OEM keys and comes with a three-year warranty.