Vehicle Smart Key Technology

The technology of smart car keys keys in automobiles allows drivers to open and start their vehicle by just touching the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also allows various other adjustments including seat position, internal temperature settings and mirror position.

However, this could cause security issues.

Security

Smart keys are highly sophisticated computerized key fobs that communicate with a vehicle through one of the antennas in the car to open the doors and to start the engine. As opposed to traditional keys, which emit the same frequency signal every time they are used, smart keys transmit encrypted signals that are specific to the Car Locksmith near Me they belong to. This makes it more difficult for thieves with a technological edge to impersonate or intercept the signal and use the key to take your car.

For instance, Mercedes' system -- called Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder that can identify the driver's keys. The Smart Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also begins the engine by pressing the key.

Furthermore there are smart keys thatsuch as those from BMW -- have individual user settings that allow the driver to alter the seat, mirrors, the position of the steering wheel as well as audio preferences at the push of the button. They also come with a backup lock that will stop the car from starting if the key is not in the ignition.

This technology assists drivers from accidentally locking their cars, particularly when they have to search their purse or backpack for keys in a parking space packed with strangers or on a busy street with high rates of crime. A lot of systems will also notify drivers when their keys are low on battery, although this feature is different for each manufacturer.

Convenience

The smart key is ideal for those who are trying to get somewhere. By pressing the button on your trunk release or door handle, you can unlock, lock and begin your vehicle. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used for tracking charging location, charging status, and other vehicle information.

A major benefit is that you aren't able to accidentally get locked out. The key fob connects to an antenna in the vehicle to determine whether it's within the range. If it's not, the engine won't start. This will deter thieves from taking your vehicle and then selling parts of it.

The smart key also uses rolling codes to protect against hacking attempts and cloning, according to BMW. A computer in the vehicle is able to recognize the code and verifies it prior to starting the engine. Most systems come with a mechanical backup system in the form of a hidden key blade.

Modern smart keys can also tell which key is in use and adjust the vehicle settings in accordance with the key's use, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. For instance, if turn on the car holding the key fob in the palm of your hand, the windows and the sunroof are opened to let the air in the cabin breathe. You can also set the speed limit which will only be applied when the vehicle is started using the selected key, a feature that could be useful when loaning your car to a new 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, hold the lock button, then press the unlock button.

This will block your smart key fob's smart chip from sending or receiving radio signals and will increase the battery's life considerably. You can always restart this function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.

Some smart car key recoding keys include anti-theft features to prevent them from being copied by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to prevent unauthorized vehicle access. The car's computer is able to verify the code within milliseconds following the smart key is placed. BMW uses a Display Key with a small LCD screen with a color. This lets drivers lock their vehicles, unlock them, and even start them without taking the replacement smart car key key from their pocket.

If you're thinking of buying the latest car equipped with a smart keys cars key, or if you require the battery in your smart key replaced, contact Pop-A-Lock for a fast and easy service. Our mobile locksmiths can change the battery of any smart key and also help you set it up so that your car recognizes it.

Special Cases

While smart keys aren't safe from theft, they do assist to hinder thieves. Smart keys employ rolling security codes to avoid hackers, and when put in the ignition, the vehicle's computer checks the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz created this technology, which is now utilized by luxury car brands.

A smart key system will continue to work even if you don't remember the key in the trunk or leave it at a restaurant. Some systems will alert the driver when the battery is low. Some brands offer keys with covers specifically designed for smart keys that protect the fob from damage.