Vehicle Smart Key Technology

The smart key technology in vehicles allows a driver to unlock and start the car by grabbing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also permits a variety of other adjustments, like seating positions as well as internal temperature settings mirror positioning and stereo presets.

This could also create security concerns.

Security

Smart keys are advanced key fobs with computers that communicate with a vehicle through one of the car's embedded antennas to open doors and start the engine. Smart key fobs, unlike traditional keys that emit the same frequency each time they're pressed, send encrypted signals that are compatible with the vehicle to which they belong. This makes it more difficult for criminals with a technological edge to intercept or spoof the signal and use your key to steal your car.

For instance, Mercedes' system -known as Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder that can identify the key of the driver. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a car it will automatically unlock the door and tailgate and starts the engine when the key's button is activated.

Furthermore certain smart keyssuch as those from BMW come with individual user settings that let the driver alter the seat, mirrors, the steering wheel's position and audio preferences at the push of a button. They also have an emergency lock that stops the vehicle from starting if it is not connected to the key.

This technology prevents drivers from being unable to lock their vehicle, especially when searching in backpacks or purses for keys on a parking lot with strangers or on a busy street where crime is high. A lot of systems will alert drivers when the battery of their key is not fully charged, though this feature varies by manufacturer.

Convenience

If you're in a hurry to get to a place, 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 unlock, lock and open your vehicle. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can be used to track charging or location as well as other vehicle information.

A major benefit is that you won't accidentally lock yourself out. The key fob communicates with an antenna inside the vehicle to determine if the key is in range. If it's not in range, the engine will not start. This is a deterrent to thieves who may take your vehicle and sell the parts.

The smart key also makes use of rolling codes to prevent hacking attempts and cloning, according to BMW. A computer inside the vehicle detects the code and confirms it prior to starting the engine. The majority of systems also have a mechanical backup that is a key blade that's hidden for styling purposes.

Modern smart keys can also tell 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 hands, for example the windows as well as the sunroof can be opened to allow fresh air to enter the interior. You can also set a speed limit that will only be applicable when the vehicle is started using the selected key, a feature that could be useful when loaning your car to a novice driver.

Battery Life

If you're looking for a way to get more mileage out of your vehicle's smart car Key programming 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 make sure you press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.

This will prevent your smart key fob from sending or receiving radio signals and will increase the battery life significantly. You can always restart this feature by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.

Certain smart keys have anti-theft capabilities that prevent them from being copied by thieves. For example, Mercedes-Benz smart key for car keys use rolling codes to block unauthorized vehicle access. When the smart key is put in the ignition, a computer in the car validates the code in milliseconds before starting the engine. BMW uses a Display Key that has a tiny LCD color screen. This lets drivers lock their cars, open them, and start the engine without having to take the smart key from their pockets.

If you're considering purchasing an automobile with a smart key, or require the battery in your smart key replaced, call us at Pop-Alock to get a quick and easy service. Our mobile locksmiths will change the battery on any smart key and assist you set it so that your car can recognize it.

Special Cases

Smart keys are not 100 100% secure against theft, but they do aid in deterring thieves. smart keys cars key fobs are designed to prevent hackers from hacking into the system. When placed in the ignition of the car the computer validates the code in milliseconds. This technology was invented by Mercedes-Benz and is now employed by many high-end car brands.

Another benefit is that many smart key systems will continue to work in the event that the user forgets the key in the trunk, left it at a restaurant or lost it during a hike. Certain systems will also notify the driver when the battery is running low. Certain brands also offer key covers specifically designed for smart keys to keep the fob protected from harm.