Why Smart Car Key Programming Might Be Your Next Big Obsession

Vehicle Smart Key Technology Smart keys for vehicles allow a driver to unlock and start the car simply by touching the door handle or placing the key in the pocket. It also permits a variety of other adjustments, like seat positions and internal temperature settings, mirror positioning and stereo presets. This could also raise security worries. Security Smart keys are highly sophisticated computerized key fobs that communicate with vehicles via one of the car's embedded antennas to unlock doors and begin the engine. Unlike conventional keys, which emit the same frequency signal every time they are used, smart keys transmit encrypted signals that only match the car they belong to. This makes it harder for thieves who are tech-savvy to impersonate or intercept the signal and use the key to take your car. Mercedes' Keyless Go system, for example, has an internal transponder, which can identify the key of the driver. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a vehicle it automatically unlocks the door and tailgate and the engine will start when the key's button is pressed. Certain smart keys, such as those made by BMW are also equipped with user-specific settings. These allow users to alter the mirrors, seat and steering wheel's location and even the audio settings with the press of a single button. They also have a backup lock that blocks the vehicle starting without the key. This technology assists drivers from locking their cars, especially when they are rummaging through their purses or backpack to locate keys in a parking space filled with strangers or on a busy street with high crime rates. Some systems will also notify drivers when the battery in their keys is depleted, though this feature varies by the manufacturer. Convenience If you're in a hurry get somewhere the smart key makes getting into your vehicle as easy as possible. By pressing the button on your trunk release lever or door handle, you can lock, unlock and open your vehicle. Key fobs can also connect to your phone to keep track of charging and location as well as other information about the vehicle, explains Popular Mechanics. It isn't safe to lock your keys in the car. The key fob communicates to an antenna inside the vehicle to determine whether it's within range. If it's not, the engine won't start. This is a deterrent to thieves who may steal your vehicle in order to sell its parts. BMW reports that the smart key utilizes rolling codes as well to prevent hacking and cloning. A computer inside the vehicle recognizes the code and verifies it prior to starting the engine. The majority of systems have a mechanical backup system that is an invisible key blade. How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys can also detect when the key is being used and adjust the vehicle settings according to the situation. For instance, if switch on the car while holding the key fob in the palm of your hand the windows and sunroof will open to let the air in the cabin breathe. You can also set the speed limit which will only be applicable when the vehicle is started using the selected key, which could be useful if you loan your car to a new 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 manufacturer-specific feature called Power Saving Mode. To activate this feature, hold the lock button, then press the unlock button. This will stop your smart key fob's ability to send or receiving radio signals that could extend its battery life significantly. You can always activate this feature by pressing the unlock and lock buttons again. Certain smart keys have anti-theft features to prevent them from being copied by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block access by anyone who is not authorized to use it. The car's computer checks the code milliseconds after the smart key is put in. BMW makes use of a Display Key with a small LCD screen with a color. This lets drivers lock their cars, unlock them, and then start them without having to remove the smart key from their pocket. Contact us at Pop-A Lock if you require to replace the battery in your smart key fob, or should you be thinking of purchasing a car with smart-key. We can replace the battery on any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths can assist you in setting the system so that your vehicle recognizes it. Special Cases Smart keys aren't 100% safe from theft, but they can assist in preventing thieves. Smart keys are designed to prevent hackers from hacking into the system. When G28CarKeys are placed in the ignition of the car the computer checks the code in milliseconds. This technology was invented by Mercedes-Benz and is now utilized by many luxury car brands. A smart key system will continue to work even if you don't remember the key in the trunk or leave it at an establishment. Some systems will also notify the driver when the battery is running low. Certain brands have keys with covers specifically designed for smart keys, to shield the fob from damage.