What Can a Smart Car Key Fob Do For You?

Known as fobs or keyless entry or smart keys, they were introduced by Mercedes in 1998. Key fobs that are controlled by computers accomplish many things, including locking and unlocking vehicles as well as launching it.

They transmit an encrypted, rolling message. This makes them more secure to hackers with a technological edge.

Safety

A smart key fob communicates constantly with a vehicle via radiofrequency waves. It sends out a low-power signal that, upon pressing it, signals the vehicle to unlock doors and start the engine. The car is programmed to recognize the unique encrypted code of a particular key fob. This means that if a key fob is stolen, the car cannot be started.

A new hack allows thieves to take advantage of this type of communication. Relay attacks are carried out with devices that transmit at the same rate as a key fob. The thief could place one of these devices in a pocket or a hiding area to disable the lock command from a distance. How Stuff Works Electronics. This is a problem that is likely to become more prevalent, as more drivers switch over to smart fortwo key programming keys.

A smart key fob isn't only a security feature but can also make your life easier by automatically taking care of the needs of your vehicle. For instance, a key fob that's linked to your smartphone could detect your presence and then unlock the doors so that you don't need to push a button on the remote. It also can detect when you're leaving and automatically lock the car, meaning you don't need to worry about not locking the doors. Many smart key fobs also have an indicator for batteries that informs you ahead of time if the battery is low. Most models allow you to replace the battery quickly and easily, without any tools or equipment required.

Convenience

In contrast to a traditional key made of metal smart keys do not require physically inserting into the ignition slot to unlock or start a car. Instead, the user has to put it on them and bring it within the range of the vehicle, as described by the BMW Group. In reality, some smart keys, including the Display Key, have small LCD color touchscreen that allows drivers to access features such as locking or unlocking and keyless start directly from their key fob without needing to connect with the car's Bluetooth system.

Another way smart keys can save drivers time is by automatizing the process of locking their car doors when they leave it. Consumer Reports says that this feature is available on many vehicles. It can also make it easier for drivers to maneuver around tight spaces without accidentally crushing the door or something else.

Smart key systems generally do not transmit the same frequency signal over and over which could make them more vulnerable to relay attacks, says Open Road Auto Group. Smart keys are specific to each vehicle so a stolen car cannot be wired. This technology makes it extremely difficult for thieves to steal a car.

Security

Today's newer cars pack in more high-tech electronic features than ever before, and a few of those are located on the key fob. These devices can do more than just lock and unlock doors or emit chirping sounds to aid drivers in finding their car in a parking area, but some owners may not be aware of everything that these smart key fobs are able to do.

For example, some smart keys can activate windows that automatically open and sunroof when they are activated. One auto editor from CR walked into her Honda Accord to find the windows all down and the sunroof wide open. She was grateful for her Smart Car Key Recoding Key that automatically locked the car.

According to How Stuff Works, some smart keys make use of computer-encrypted signals to deter car thieves. This technology can prevent hotwiring in which thieves steal a vehicle's engine controller module (ECM) which is usually located at the front of the engine. The ECM controls many vital functions such as engine power, transmission control, and many more.

Other technologies in smart keys include anti-theft encryption and an individual security ID assigned to each key, which can turn off the ignition if it's not the correct one. The security ID is a code that is transmitted by the ECM from the key to the ignition and then verified by a sensor inside the car.

Maintenance

Smart car key fobs can do more than simply unlock the door. It can start your engine, and also activate suspension and brakes remotely. It can also provide details about your vehicle, such as the fuel level and the oil temperature.

A smart car key fob, as every other electronic device requires regular maintenance to work properly. Modern key fobs come with battery indicators to alert the driver that it is time to replace the battery. Replacing the battery is a straightforward procedure, and no specialist tools are required.

In certain instances the smart key might stop working completely. If you suspect that this is the problem, try to reset the smart key by leaving the vehicle and then returning to it. This will allow the car to recognize that the fob is in place and allow it to be functional again.

Contact a locksmith in the event that you are not able to get your key fob to function. They can reprogram your fob so that it can be recognized by your car and you are able to use all its features. It's generally cheaper to do this rather than purchasing the new fob for your key, and it could save you money in the end. In certain instances, the locksmith can fix an existing key fob to be able use it to purchase a new one. This can save you money in the end.