What's Everyone Talking About Smart Car Key Programming Right Now
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
Smart keys in vehicles allow a driver to unlock and start the car simply by pressing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also allows for a variety of other adjustments, including seats positions and temperature settings inside the car, stereo presets, and mirror positioning.
This can also cause security worries.
Security
Smart keys are computerized key fobs which communicate with the vehicle via an embedded antenna to unlock doors and activate the motor. As opposed to traditional keys, which emit the same frequency signal every time they are press, smart key fobs transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the specific car they belong to. This makes it more difficult for thieves with a technological edge to fake or intercept the signal and use the key to take your car.
Mercedes' Keyless Go system for instance, 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 the engine starts when the key's button is press.
Additionally certain smart keys- like those from BMW -- have individual user settings that let the driver adjust the mirrors, seat and the steering wheel's position as well as audio preferences at the click of a button. They also come with a backup lock that blocks the vehicle starting without the key.
This technology assists drivers from locking their cars, especially when fumbling in a purse or backpack to find keys in a parking space packed with people or on a busy street with high rates of crime. Some systems also notify motorists when their keys are low on battery, although this feature varies by manufacturer.
Convenience
If you're in a hurry get somewhere the smart key makes getting into your car as simple as it can be. By pressing the button on the trunk release or door handle you can lock, unlock and begin your vehicle. The key fob will connect to your phone to keep track of charging, location and other data regarding the vehicle, as explained by Popular Mechanics.
It isn't safe to lock your keys in the car. The key fob communicates with an antenna in the vehicle to determine whether it's within range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This will deter thieves from absconding with your vehicle and selling its parts.
The smart key uses rolling codes to ward off hacking attempts and cloning, according to BMW. The computer in the vehicle detects and validates the code prior to launching the motor. The majority of systems have a mechanical backup in the form of a hidden key blade.
How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys can be able to detect keys in use and adjust vehicle settings in accordance with the key's use. For example, if you turn on the car while holding the key fob in your hand, the windows and the sunroof are opened to let air circulate through the cabin. You can also set up an automatic speed limit that will only be applied when the car is powered by the selected key. This feature can be useful if you're loaning your vehicle to a driver who has no prior experience.
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 it, hold down the lock button and press the unlock button.
This will stop your smart key fob's smart chip from sending or receiving radio signals that could extend its battery's lifespan significantly. You can always reactivate this feature by pressing the unlock and lock buttons again.
www.g28carkeys.co.uk include anti-theft functions that prevent them being stolen by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorised access to vehicles. When a smart key is inserted into ignition, a computer in the car confirms the code in milliseconds prior starting the engine. BMW offers a similar system with its Display Key, which comes with an LCD touchscreen on the smart key for convenience, and enables drivers to lock, unlock, and start their cars without ever removing the key from their pockets.
Contact Pop-A-Lock if your need to replace the battery in your smart key fob, or considering buying a car with a smart-key. We can replace the battery in any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths are able to help you set the system so that your car can recognize it.
Special Cases
While smart keys aren't security-wise, they can be used to discourage thieves. Smart keys employ rolling security codes that prevent hacking, and when placed in the ignition, the car's computer validates the code within milliseconds. This technology was invented by Mercedes-Benz and is currently used by a number of high-end car brands.
A smart key system will function even if you lose the key in your trunk or leave it at an establishment. Some systems will also notify the driver when the battery is depleted. Certain brands provide keys with covers specifically designed for smart keys to guard the fob from damage.