Vehicle Smart Key Technology

Smart keys in vehicles allow drivers to unlock and start the car simply by touching the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also permits various other adjustments, including seat position as well as internal temperature settings and mirror positioning.

However, it could also create security concerns.

Security

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

For example, 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 the tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also allows you to start the engine by pressing the key.

Furthermore certain smart key programing keyssuch as those from BMW include individual user settings that allow the driver to adjust the mirrors, seat and steering wheel position and audio preferences at the click of the button. They also come with an emergency lock that stops the car from starting if the key is not in the ignition.

This technology helps drivers avoid not locking their cars properly and causing damage to their vehicle, particularly when searching a purse or a backpack for keys on the parking lot of people who are not familiar with the area or where crime is high. Some systems also notify drivers when the key is not fully charged, however this feature differs by manufacturer.

Convenience

The smart key is ideal for those who are trying to get somewhere. By pressing the button on your trunk release lever or door handle, you can lock, unlock and get into your vehicle. Key fobs can also communicate with your phone to track charging and location as well as other information about the vehicle, says Popular Mechanics.

You can't accidentally lock your keys inside the car. The key fob communicates with an antenna within the vehicle to determine whether it's in range. If it's not, the engine won't start. This can deter thieves who might steal your vehicle in order to sell the parts.

The smart key also makes use of rolling codes to protect against hacking attempts and cloning, says BMW. The computer inside the vehicle is able to recognize the code and confirms it prior to launching the engine. The majority of systems have a mechanical backup in the form of a key blade hidden in the.

Modern smart keys also recognize the type of key being used and adjust the car settings as needed, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. For instance, if start the Car Smart Key Replacement while holding the key fob in your hand, the windows and sunroof open to let air circulate through the cabin. You can also set up the speed limit to only be used when the car is powered by the specified key. This feature is useful if you are lending your vehicle to a person with no 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 smart key replacement manufacturer-specific feature called Power Saving Mode. To activate it, press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.

This will prevent your smart key fob from sending or receiving any radio waves and will increase the battery's lifespan significantly. You can always restart the function by pressing the lock and unlock buttons again.

Some smart keys have anti-theft features that stop them from being copied by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to prevent unauthorized access to vehicles. When a smart key is inserted in the ignition, a computer in the car checks the code in milliseconds, before beginning the engine. BMW uses a similar method with its Display Key, which includes a small LCD color touchscreen on the smart key to make it easier and enables drivers to lock and unlock their cars without ever removing it from their pockets.

If you're thinking about buying the latest car equipped with a smart key, or need the battery of your smart key fob changed, contact us at Pop-A Lock for a quick and efficient service. Our mobile locksmiths can change the battery on any smart key and help you set it up so that your car can recognize it.

Special Cases

Smart keys aren't 100 100% secure against theft, but they do help deter thieves. Smart keys employ rolling security codes to prevent hacking, and when placed in the ignition, the vehicle's computer verifies the code within milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz created this technology, which is now used by luxury car manufacturers.

A smart key system will work even if you forget the key in your trunk or leave it in the restaurant. Certain systems will also inform the driver if the battery is not fully charged. Certain brands also offer key covers specifically designed for smart keys. They ensure that the fob is protected from damage.