5 Smart Car Key Programming Lessons Learned From The Pros

Vehicle Smart Key Technology

The smart key technology in vehicles allows drivers to unlock and start the car by touching the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also permits a variety of other adjustments, like seats positions and internal temperature settings, stereo presets and mirror positions.

However, this can also result in security issues.

Security

Smart keys are highly sophisticated key fobs with computers that communicate with a vehicle through one of the antennas built into the car to unlock doors and begin the engine. As opposed to traditional keys, which emit the same frequency signal each time they are used, Smart car key recoding keys transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the specific vehicle they belong to. This makes it much more difficult for thieves with the latest technology to steal or spoof the signal and use the key to steal your car.

For example, Mercedes' system -known as Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder which can identify the driver's keys. The smart key replacement near me Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also begins the engine by pressing the key.

Certain smart keys, such as those made by BMW, also have user-specific settings that permit users to alter the mirrors, seat and steering wheel's position and even the audio settings with the press of a single button. They also come with a backup lock, which prevents the vehicle from starting if the key is not in the ignition.

This technology can prevent drivers from locking their vehicles, particularly when they have to search their purse or backpack to find keys in a parking space packed with strangers or on a busy street with high rates of crime. A lot of systems will also notify drivers when keys are in danger of being depleted, though this feature is different for each manufacturer.

Convenience

If you're in a hurry to get to a place, the smart key makes getting into your vehicle as simple as it can be. By pressing the button on the trunk release lever or door handle, you can open, lock and begin your vehicle. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used to track charging or location as well as other vehicle information.

A major benefit is that you won't accidentally get locked out. The key fob communicates with the antenna inside the vehicle to determine whether it's in range. If it's not, the engine won't start. This will deter thieves who may steal your car to sell its parts.

BMW reports that the smart key makes use of rolling codes in order to protect against hacking and cloning. The computer inside the vehicle detects and validates the code before starting the motor. Most systems come with a mechanical backup in the form of an unnoticed key blade.

Modern smart keys also detect which key is in use and adjust the settings of the vehicle in line with the use of the key for smart car, says How Stuff Works Electronics. If you turn on your vehicle while holding the key in your hand, for example, the windows and the sunroof will open to allow air circulation to the interior. You can also set the speed limit to only be in effect when the car is started using the selected key, a feature that could be useful when loaning 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 block your smart key fob's smart chip from sending or receiving any radio signals, which will extend its battery's life considerably. It is possible to reactivate the function by pressing the lock and unlock buttons again.

Certain smart keys come with anti-theft capabilities that prevent them from being stolen by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart key uses rolling codes to stop access by anyone who is not authorized to use it. When a smart key is inserted into ignition, a computer within the car confirms the code in milliseconds prior starting the engine. BMW uses a similar method with its Display Key, which includes a small LCD color touchscreen on the smart key for convenience, and allows drivers to lock and unlock their cars without ever removing it from their pockets.

Contact us at Pop-A Lock if you require to replace the battery in the smart key fob you have or considering purchasing a vehicle with a smart-key. Our mobile locksmiths will change the battery of any smart key and help to set it up so that your car recognizes it.

Special Cases

While smart keys are not security-wise, they can be used to hinder thieves. smart car replacement key keys use rolling security codes to prevent hacking, and when placed in the ignition, the vehicle's computer verifies the code within milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz created this technology, which is now used by luxury car manufacturers.

Another useful feature is that the majority of smart key systems will continue to work even if a user forgot the key in the trunk, left it at an eatery or lost it on a hike. Some systems will alert the driver when the battery is low. Certain brands have key covers specifically designed for smart keys. They keep the key safe from damage.