The Most Successful Smart Car Key Programming Gurus Can Do Three Things
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
The smart key technology in vehicles allows drivers to open and start the car by touching the door handle or placing the key in the pocket. It also allows for a variety of other adjustments, including seats positions as well as internal temperature settings stereo presets, and mirror positioning.
However, this can also create security concerns.
Security
Smart keys are sophisticated key fobs with computers that communicate with the vehicle using one of the car's embedded antennas to unlock doors and begin the engine. Smart keys, unlike traditional keys, which emit the same frequency each time they're pressed, send encrypted signals that are compatible with the car to which they belong to. This makes it harder for thieves who are tech-savvy to impersonate or intercept the signal and use the key to steal your car.
For instance, Mercedes' system -- called Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder that identifies the key of the driver. The Smart Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and the tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also starts the engine by pressing a button on its key.
Certain smart keys, such as the ones made by BMW are also equipped with user-specific settings, which allow the driver to alter the mirrors, seat and the steering wheel's position and audio preferences at the click of a button. They also come with a backup lock, which will stop the car from starting if the key is not in the ignition.
This technology protects drivers from getting their car locked accidentally especially when looking in the bag or purse to find keys in a parking lot with strangers or a busy street where crime is high. A lot of systems will alert drivers when the battery of their key is depleted, though this feature may differ from manufacturer to manufacturer.
smart key replacement is ideal for those on the move and need to get to their destination. By pressing the button on the trunk release or door handle you can open, lock and get into your vehicle. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can be used to track charging, location, and other information about your vehicle.
You can't accidentally lock your keys inside the car. The key fob communicates with an antenna inside the vehicle to determine if the key is in range. If it's not, the engine won't start. This will deter thieves from taking your vehicle and then selling its parts.
The smart key also employs rolling codes to deter hacking attempts and cloning, reports BMW. A computer inside the vehicle recognizes the code and confirms it prior to starting the engine. The majority of systems have a mechanical back-up in the form an invisible key blade.
Modern smart keys also recognize the type of key being used and adjust the settings of the vehicle in accordance with the key's use, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. If you switch on the vehicle while holding the key in your palm, for example the windows as well as the sunroof can be opened to allow fresh air to enter the interior. You can also set the speed limit which will only apply when the vehicle is started with the selected key, a feature that could be useful if you loan 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 do this, hold the lock button until you release it and press the unlock button.
This will prevent your smart key fob to transmit or receive radio waves. This will greatly extend the life of your battery. You can always reactivate this feature by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.
Certain smart keys also come with anti-theft features that prevent them from being copied by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorized vehicle access. The car's computer will check the code every millisecond after the smart key is placed. BMW utilizes a Display Key with a small LCD color screen. This lets drivers lock their vehicles, unlock them, and then start the engine without having to take the smart key from their pocket.
If you're considering purchasing an automobile with a smart key, or require the battery in your smart key changed, contact us at Pop-A Lock for a quick and simple service. Our mobile locksmiths can replace the battery of any smart key and assist you set it up so that your car can recognize it.
Special Cases
While smart keys aren't safe from theft, they do assist to discourage thieves. Smart keys employ rolling security codes to avoid hacking, and when placed in the ignition, the vehicle's computer validates the code within milliseconds. This technology was invented by Mercedes-Benz and is now utilized by a variety of premium car brands.
A smart key system will work even if you forget the key in the trunk or leave it at a restaurant. Certain systems will also inform the driver if the battery is running low. Certain brands have key covers specifically designed for smart keys to protect the fob from damage.
