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Vehicle Smart Key Technology

Vehicle smart car key fob replacement key technology allows the driver to unlock and start the car simply by pressing the door handle or placing the key in the pocket. It also allows for a variety of other adjustments, such as seating positions and temperature settings inside the car, stereo presets and mirror positions.

This could also raise security issues.

Security

Smart keys are advanced computerized key fobs that communicate with a vehicle via one of the antennas in the car to open the doors and to start the engine. Smart key fobs, unlike traditional keys, which emit the same frequency each time they're pulled, transmit encrypted signals that are compatible with the specific car to which they belong to. This makes it more difficult for tech-savvy thieves to impersonate or intercept the signal and use the key to steal your car.

Mercedes' Keyless Go system for instance, has an internal transponder that can identify 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 begins the engine by pressing a button on its key.

Furthermore some smart keyslike those made by BMW have their own user settings that allow the driver to adjust the seat, mirrors and the position of the steering wheel as well as audio preferences at the click of the button. They also have an emergency lock that stops the vehicle starting without the key.

This technology prevents drivers from being unable to lock their vehicle especially when looking in the bag or purse to find keys in an open parking lot with strangers or on a busy street where crime is high. Some systems will also notify drivers when the battery of their key is depleted, though this feature may differ from manufacturer to the manufacturer.

Convenience

The smart key is ideal for those on the move and need to get to their destination. You can lock, unlock and start your car simply by pressing a button on the door handle or the trunk release. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can be used to track charging or location as well as other vehicle information.

You can't accidentally lock your keys inside the car. The key fob communicates with an antenna in the vehicle to determine if the key is in range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This will deter thieves from stealing your vehicle and selling its parts.

The smart key also makes use of rolling codes to prevent hacking attempts and cloning, says BMW. The computer inside the vehicle can recognize and verify the code prior to starting the motor. Most systems have a mechanical backup system that is an invisible key blade.

How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys also detect the key in use and adjust vehicle settings in line with the use of the key. If you turn on your vehicle while holding the key in your palm for instance, the windows and the sunroof can be opened to allow fresh air to enter the interior. You can also set a speed limit that will only apply when the vehicle is started using the specified key, which could be useful when loaning 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 do this simply press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.

This will block your smart key fob to send or receive any radio waves. This will dramatically extend the life of your battery. You can reactivate this function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.

Certain smart keys come with anti-theft capabilities that prevent them from being copied by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to prevent access by anyone who is not authorized to use it. The car's computer checks the code milliseconds after the smart key is inserted. BMW offers a similar system with its Display Key, which includes a small LCD color touchscreen on the smart key to make it easier and allows drivers to lock, unlock, and start their vehicles without ever taking the key from their pockets.

If you're considering purchasing an automobile with a smart key, or you need the battery in your smart key changed, contact us at Pop-A Lock for a quick and simple service. We can replace the battery in any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths will help you set the system so that your vehicle can recognize it.

Special Cases

While smart keys are not theft-proof, they do help to discourage thieves. Smart keys utilize rolling security codes that prevent theft, and when placed in the ignition, the car's computer validates the code within milliseconds. This technology was developed by Mercedes-Benz and is now employed by a variety of premium car brands.

A smart key system will work even if you forget the key in your trunk or leave it in the restaurant. Certain systems will notify the driver when the battery is running low. Certain brands have key covers specifically designed for smart keys to guard the fob from damage.