Why Smart Car Key Programming Is Your Next Big Obsession

Vehicle Smart Key Technology

Vehicle smart key technology allows drivers to unlock and start the car simply by grabbing the door handle or placing the key in the pocket. It also allows a variety of other adjustments, including seating positions as well as internal temperature settings stereo presets and mirror positions.

This could also create security issues.

Security

Smart keys are advanced key fobs with computers that communicate with the vehicle using one of the antennas built into the car to unlock doors and start the engine. In contrast to conventional keys that emit the same frequency signal each time they are pressed, smart key fobs transmit encrypted signals that only match the specific car they belong to. This makes it more difficult for criminals with a technological edge to intercept or spoof the signal, and then use your key to steal your car.

Mercedes' Keyless Go system for instance, comes with an internal transponder which identifies the driver's keys. The Smart Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and the tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also starts the engine by pressing a button on its key.

Some smart keys, such as the ones made by BMW additionally have user-specific settings, which allow the driver to alter the mirrors, seat and steering wheel's location and audio preferences at the touch of a single button. They also come with the backup lock, which stops the vehicle starting without the key.

smart key for car G28  protects drivers from getting their car locked accidentally especially when looking in a purse or a backpack for keys in an open parking lot with strangers or a busy street where crime is high. Many systems will also inform drivers if the key battery is not fully charged, though this feature varies from manufacturer the manufacturer.

Convenience

The smart key is ideal for those who are on the move and need to get to their destination. By pressing the button on your trunk release lever or door handle, you can open, lock and open your vehicle. The key fob will also interact with your phone to track charging, location and other data about the vehicle, explains Popular Mechanics.

A big benefit is that you aren't able to accidentally be locked out. The key fob communicates to an antenna in the vehicle to determine whether it is within range. If it's not, the engine won't start. This will deter thieves from taking your vehicle and then selling its parts.

The smart key also employs rolling codes to deter hacking attempts and cloning, says BMW. The vehicle's computer is able to recognize and verify the code prior the start of the motor. A majority of systems also have a mechanical backup in the form of an invisible key blade to be used for styling purposes.

Modern smart keys also detect the type of key being used and adjust the settings of the vehicle in accordance with the key's use, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. For example, if you turn on the car holding the key fob in your palm, the windows and sunroof open to ventilate the cabin. You can also set up a speed limit which will only be in effect when the car is powered by the selected key. This feature could be useful if you are lending your vehicle to a person who has little experience.

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 and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.

This will block your smart key fob's smart device from being able to transmit or receive radio waves. This will significantly increase its battery life. You can always restart the function by pressing the lock and unlock buttons again.

Certain smart keys have anti-theft functions that prevent them being stolen by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to prevent unauthorized vehicle access. When a smart key is inserted in the ignition, a computer inside the car confirms the code in milliseconds prior to beginning the engine. BMW makes use of a Display Key that has a tiny LCD screen with a color. This allows drivers to lock their cars, unlock them, and even start them without taking the smart key from their pockets.

Call Pop-A-Lock if you need to replace the battery in the smart key fob you have or in the event that you are thinking of purchasing a vehicle with a smart-key. We can replace the battery on any smart key and our mobile locksmiths will help you set the system so that your vehicle recognizes it.

Special Cases

Smart keys are not 100% theft-proof but they can help deter thieves. Smart keys use rolling security codes to avoid hackers, and when put in the ignition, the car's computer checks the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz invented this technology, which is now utilized by luxury car brands.

Another great feature is that the majority of smart key systems will operate even if a user forgot the key in the trunk or left it in a restaurant or lost it during a hike. Some systems will also notify the driver when the battery is low. Certain brands also offer keys with covers specifically designed for smart keys to guard the fob from damage.