Smart Car Key Programming: The Good And Bad About Smart Car Key Programming

Vehicle Smart Key Technology The technology of smart keys in vehicles allows drivers to unlock and start their vehicle by simply pressing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also permits a variety of other adjustments, including the position of seats and internal temperature settings, mirror positioning and stereo presets. This can also cause security issues. Security Smart keys are computerized key fobs that communicate with the vehicle via an embedded antenna. smart car key programming allows them to unlock doors and begin the motor. Unlike conventional keys, which emit the identical frequency signal each time they are pressed, smart key fobs transmit encrypted signals that only match the specific vehicle they belong to. This makes it difficult for hackers with the latest technology to detect or spoof the signal, and use your key to steal your vehicle. For instance, Mercedes' system — called Keyless Go — has an internal transponder, which identifies the driver's keys. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a vehicle it instantly unlocks the door and tailgate, and the engine starts when a button on the key is activated. Furthermore certain smart keyssuch as those from BMW — have individual user settings that let the driver adjust seat, mirrors and steering wheel position and audio preferences with the click of a button. They also have a backup lock that prevents the vehicle from starting if it is not connected to the key. This technology prevents drivers from accidentally locking their cars, particularly when they are rummaging through their purses or backpack for keys in a parking lot full of strangers or in a busy street with high rates of crime. Many systems also notify motorists when their keys are running low on battery, but 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 easy as it can be. By pressing the button on the trunk release or door handle, you can lock, unlock and begin your vehicle. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can be used to track charging, location, and other vehicle information. You don't want to accidentally lock your keys in the car. The key fob communicates with the antenna inside the vehicle to determine if it's within range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This helps deter would-be thieves who could steal your vehicle in order to sell its parts. The smart key also uses rolling codes to deter hacking attempts as well as cloning, according BMW. The computer in the vehicle recognizes and verifies the code prior the start of the motor. Most systems come with a mechanical backup system that is a key blade hidden in the. How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys can also detect the keys being used and adjust the vehicle settings accordingly. If you switch on the vehicle while holding the key in your palm for instance windows and sunroof can be opened to allow fresh air to enter the interior. You can also set a speed limit that will only be applied when the car is powered by the specified key. This feature can be useful if you are lending your vehicle to a person 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 prevent your smart key fob to send or receive any radio waves. This will significantly extend the life of its battery. You can always reactivate 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. Mercedes-Benz smart keys utilize rolling codes to block the unauthorized access. When a smart key is put in the ignition, a computer within the car validates the code in milliseconds, before beginning the engine. BMW makes use of a Display Key with a small LCD color screen. This lets drivers lock their vehicles, unlock them, and even start them without removing the smart key from their pocket. Contact Pop-A-Lock if your need to replace the battery in 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 in any smart key and our mobile locksmiths will help you set it up so that your vehicle can recognize it. Special Cases Smart keys aren't 100% safe from theft, but they can help deter 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 verifies the code within milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz developed this technology, which is now used by luxury car manufacturers. Another helpful feature 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 on the trail. Some systems will alert the driver when the battery is low. Certain brands provide key covers specifically made for smart keys that ensure that the fob is protected from harm.