10 Tips For Smart Car Key Programming That Are Unexpected
Vehicle Smart Key Technology Vehicle smart key technology allows drivers to open and start the car simply by pressing the door handle or placing the key in the pocket. It also allows a variety of other adjustments, such as seat positions, internal temperature settings, mirror position and stereo presets. However, it could also create security concerns. Security Smart keys are computerized key fobs that communicate with vehicles through an embedded antenna to unlock doors and activate the motor. Smart keys, unlike traditional keys that emit the same frequency every time they're used, transmit encrypted signals that are compatible with the vehicle to which they belong. This makes it more difficult for thieves with a technological edge to impersonate or intercept the signal and use the key to take your car. Mercedes' Keyless Go system, for example, has an internal transponder that identifies the key of the driver. The Smart Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also turns on the engine by pressing the key. Additionally smart key car keyslike those made by BMW — have individual user settings that allow the driver to alter the seat, mirrors, the steering wheel's position and audio preferences at the click of a button. They also have an emergency lock that stops the vehicle from running without the key. This technology can prevent drivers from locking their car, especially when searching through a purse or backpack to find keys in a parking area filled with strangers or on a busy street with high crime rates. Some systems also notify drivers when their keys are not fully charged, however this feature is different for each manufacturer. Convenience The smart key is ideal for those trying to get to their destination. You can lock, unlock and start your car by pressing a button on the door handle or the trunk release. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used for tracking charging location, charging status, and other information about your vehicle. A big benefit is that you won't accidentally lock yourself out. The key fob communicates to an antenna in the vehicle to determine if it is within the range. If it's not, the engine won't start. This will deter thieves from stealing your vehicle and selling its parts. The smart key also makes use of rolling codes to ward off hacking attempts and cloning, reports BMW. The computer inside the vehicle recognizes and verifies the code prior to starting the motor. Most systems have a physical back-up in the form an unnoticed key blade. How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys be able to detect keys used and adjust the car settings according to the situation. For instance, if turn on the car while holding the key fob in your palm, the windows and sunroof can be opened to let air circulate through the cabin. You can also set a speed limit that will only be in effect when the car is started using the chosen key, a feature that could be useful if you loan your car 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 manufacturer-specific feature called Power Saving Mode. To activate it, press down the lock button and press the unlock button. This will stop your smart key fob to send or receive any radio waves. This will greatly extend the battery's life. You can always reactivate this function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more. Certain smart keys also come with anti-theft features that prevent them from being copied by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorized access to vehicles. The car's computer is able to verify the code within milliseconds following the smart key is put in. BMW makes use of a Display Key with a small LCD color screen. This lets drivers lock their cars, unlock them, and then start them without having to remove the smart key from their pockets. If you're thinking about buying an automobile with a smart key, or if you require the battery in your smart key replaced, call us at Pop-Alock for a fast and easy service. We can replace the battery in any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths can assist you in setting the system so that your vehicle recognizes it. Special Cases While smart keys aren't secure against theft, they can help to deter thieves. Smart keys are designed to keep hackers from hacking the system. When they are inserted into the ignition of the car, the computer verifies the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz created this technology, which is now used by luxury car brands. Another useful feature is that many smart key systems will continue to function even if a user forgot the key in the trunk or left it at a restaurant or lost it during an excursion. Some systems will also notify the driver when the battery is not fully charged. Certain brands also offer key covers specifically designed for smart keys. They keep the fob protected from damage.