Vehicle Smart Key Technology
The smart key technology in automobiles allows drivers to open and start their car by simply touching the door handle, or placing the key into the pocket. It also allows a variety of other adjustments like seating positions, internal temperature settings, mirror position and stereo presets.
This could also create security concerns.
Security
Smart keys are computerized key fobs that communicate with vehicles through an embedded antenna to unlock doors and start the motor. Unlike conventional keys, which emit the same frequency signal each time they are activated, smart keys transmit encrypted signals that only match the specific vehicle they belong to. This makes it more difficult for thieves with advanced technology to intercept or spoof the signal, and use your key to steal your vehicle.
Mercedes' Keyless Go system for instance, comes with an internal transponder, which can identify the driver's key. 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.
Certain smart keys, such as those made by BMW are also equipped with user-specific settings that allow drivers to alter the seat, mirrors and the steering wheel's position and audio preferences at the touch of a single button. They also have an emergency lock that stops the car from starting if the key is not in the ignition.
This technology prevents drivers from being unable to lock their vehicle especially when looking in a purse or a backpack for keys on a parking lot with strangers or on a busy street where crime is high. Many systems also alert drivers when their keys are not fully charged, however this feature varies by manufacturer.
Convenience
If you're in a hurry to get somewhere, the smart key makes entering your car as simple as it can be. By pressing the button on your trunk release or door handle, you can open, lock and get into your vehicle. Key fobs can also communicate with your phone to keep track of charging locations, charging times and other details about the vehicle, according to Popular Mechanics.
You can't accidentally lock your keys inside the car. The key fob communicates with an antenna inside the vehicle to determine if it's within range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This is a deterrent to thieves who could steal your vehicle in order to sell the parts.
The
smart key also makes use of rolling codes to prevent hacking attempts and cloning, reports BMW. The computer in the vehicle recognizes and verifies the code prior to starting the motor. The majority of systems also have a mechanical backup in the form of the key blade, which is hidden to enhance the appearance of the.
How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys can also detect the key in use and adjust vehicle settings in accordance with the key's use. If you turn on your vehicle while holding the key in your hand, 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 be in effect when the car is started using the selected key, which can be useful when loaning your vehicle to a novice 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 smart key replacement manufacturer-specific feature called Power Saving Mode. To activate it, press the lock button down and then press the unlock button.
This will block your smart key fob's smart chip from sending or receiving any radio waves and will increase the battery's life by a significant amount. You can always activate the function by pressing both the lock and unlock buttons again.
Certain smart keys have anti-theft capabilities that protect them from being copied by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart key uses rolling codes to prevent access by anyone who is not authorized to use it. The computer in the car is able to verify the code within milliseconds following the
smart Car key programming key is placed. BMW makes use of a Display Key with a small LCD color screen. This lets drivers lock their vehicles, unlock them, and start them without having to remove the smart key from their pockets.
Call Pop-A-Lock if you need to replace the battery on the smart key fob you have or in the event that you are thinking of buying a car with a smart-key. We can replace the battery on any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths are able to help you set it up to make sure your vehicle recognizes it.
Special Cases
While smart keys are not security-wise, they can be used to hinder thieves. Smart keys utilize rolling security codes that prevent the hacking of keys, and when they are placed in the ignition, the car's computer checks the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz invented this technology, which is currently used by luxury car manufacturers.
Another great feature is that most smart key systems will continue to work even if a user forgot the key in the trunk or left it in the restaurant or if it is lost on an excursion. Some systems will alert the driver when the battery is not fully charged. Some brands offer key covers designed specifically for smart keys to protect the fob from damage.
