Vehicle Smart Key Technology

Smart keys in vehicles allow the driver to unlock and start the car by pressing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also enables a range of other adjustments, like seat positions and temperature settings inside the car, mirror positioning and stereo presets.

This could also create security concerns.

Security

Smart keys are highly sophisticated electronic keys that communicate with a vehicle via one of the antennas that are embedded in the vehicle to open doors and begin the engine. In contrast to conventional keys that emit the same frequency signal each time they are activated, smart keys transmit encrypted signals that only match the car they belong to. This makes it much 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. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a car it instantly unlocks the door and tailgate, and the engine starts when a button on the key is pressed.

Certain smart key programming near me keys, like the ones made by BMW additionally have user-specific settings. These allow users to alter the mirrors, seat, steering wheel position, and even audio preferences with the touch of a single button. They also come with the backup lock, which stops the vehicle from running without the key.

This technology prevents drivers from accidentally locking their cars, particularly when they are rummaging through their purses or backpack to locate keys in a parking space packed with strangers or on an area with high rates of crime. A lot of systems will alert drivers when the battery in their keys is low, but this feature varies from manufacturer manufacturer.

Convenience

If you're in a hurry to get to a place the smart key makes entering your vehicle as simple as it can be. You can unlock, lock and start your car by pressing the door handle or the trunk release. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used for tracking charging or location as well as other vehicle information.

A big benefit is that you can't accidentally be locked out. The key fob communicates to an antenna in the vehicle to determine if it's within range. If it's not, the engine won't start. This will stop thieves from taking your vehicle and then selling its parts.

BMW reports that the smart key employs rolling codes in order to protect against hacking and cloning. The vehicle's computer can recognize and verify the code prior the start of the motor. Most systems also have a backup mechanical system in the form of an unnoticed key blade to be used for styling purposes.

Modern smart keys can also tell which key is in use and adjust the vehicle settings as needed, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. For instance, if you turn on the car while holding the key fob in the palm of your hand the windows and sunroof can be opened to let the air in the cabin breathe. You can also set up a speed limit that will only be applied when the vehicle is powered by the chosen key. This feature could be beneficial if you're lending your car to a driver who is not experienced.

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 this feature simply press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.

This will disable your Smart Car Key Programming key fob from transmitting or receiving any radio waves which will increase its battery's life considerably. You can always reactivate this feature by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.

Certain smart keys also come with anti-theft features to prevent them from being copied by thieves. For example, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to stop unauthorized vehicle access. The computer in the car will check the code every millisecond after the smart key is introduced. BMW makes use of a Display Key that has a tiny LCD color screen. This allows drivers to lock their cars, unlock them, and even start them without removing the smart key from their pocket.

Call Pop-A-Lock if you need to replace the battery on the smart key fob you have or if you are thinking of buying a car with a smart-key. Our mobile locksmiths can change the battery of any smart key, and will help to set it so that your car recognizes it.

Special Cases

Smart keys are not 100 100% theft-proof, but they help deter thieves. Smart key fobs are designed to deter hackers from gaining access to the system. When they are inserted into the ignition of the vehicle the computer checks the code in milliseconds. This technology was invented by Mercedes-Benz and is currently used by a number of premium car brands.

Another great feature is that many smart key systems will continue to operate in the event that the user forgets the key in the trunk or left it at the restaurant, or lost it on hiking. Some systems will also alert the driver if the battery is depleted. Certain brands also offer key covers specifically designed for smart keys that protect the fob from damage.