7 Things You Didn't Know About Smart Car Key Programming
Vehicle Smart Key Technology Smart keys for vehicles allow drivers to unlock and start the car simply by pressing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also permits a variety of other adjustments like seat position the internal temperature setting and mirror position. However, this could also lead to security concerns. Security Smart keys are computerized key fobs that communicate with vehicles through an embedded antenna to unlock doors and begin the motor. Contrary to conventional keys, which emit the same frequency signal every time they are activated, smart keys transmit encrypted signals that only match the car they belong to. This makes it more difficult for tech-savvy criminals to intercept or spoof the signal, and use your key to steal your vehicle. For example, Mercedes' system -known as Keyless Go — has an internal transponder, which identifies the driver's keys. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a car it automatically unlocks the tailgate and door and starts the engine when the key's button is hit. Furthermore, some smart keys -like those made by BMW have their own user settings that let the driver adjust the mirrors, seat and steering wheel position and audio preferences at the click of one button. They also have an emergency lock that stops the vehicle starting without the key. This technology protects drivers from accidentally locking their vehicles and causing damage to their vehicle, particularly when searching backpacks or purses for keys in an open parking lot with strangers or on a busy street where crime is high. Many systems will also alert drivers if the key battery is low, but this feature varies by the manufacturer. Convenience If you're in a hurry to get somewhere the smart key makes getting into your vehicle as simple as it can be. By pressing the button on the trunk release or door handle you can unlock, lock and begin your vehicle. The key fob will also connect to your phone to keep track of charging locations, charging times and other details about the vehicle, explains Popular Mechanics. You shouldn't lock your keys in the car. The key fob connects to an antenna inside the vehicle to determine whether it's within the range. If it's not, the engine won't start. This helps deter would-be thieves who may take your vehicle and sell the parts. BMW reports that the smart key makes use of rolling codes in order to prevent hacking and cloning. The vehicle's computer detects and validates the code prior the start of the motor. Many systems also have a mechanical backup that is the key blade, which is hidden to be used for styling purposes. How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys also detect when the key is in use and adjust vehicle settings accordingly. If you switch on the vehicle while holding the key in your hands, for example windows and sunroof will open to allow air circulation to the interior. You can also set a speed limit that will only be applied when the vehicle is started using the specified 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 it, press the lock button, then press the unlock button. This will make it impossible for your smart key fob from having to transmit or receive radio waves. This will dramatically extend the life of its battery. It is possible to reactivate the function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons again. Certain smart keys have anti-theft features that prevent them from being copied by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart keys utilize rolling codes to block unauthorised access. When the smart key is inserted into the ignition, a computer within the car confirms the code in milliseconds prior it starts the engine. BMW also has a similar system with its Display Key, which features an LCD touchscreen on the smart key for added convenience and enables drivers to lock or unlock their vehicles without ever taking it from their pockets. If you're considering buying an automobile with a smart key, or require the battery in your smart key fob replaced, contact Pop-A-Lock to get a quick and easy service. Our mobile locksmiths will replace the battery on any smart key and help to set it up so that your car recognizes it. Special Cases Although smart keys aren't security-wise, they can be used to discourage thieves. Smart key fobs use rolling security codes that prevent hacking, and when placed in the ignition, the vehicle's computer checks the code in milliseconds. smart key repair -Benz developed this technology, which is now utilized by luxury car brands. Another helpful feature is that most smart key systems will operate in the event that the user forgets the key in the trunk or left it in the restaurant, or lost it during a hike. Certain systems will notify the driver when the battery is low. Some brands offer key covers specifically designed for smart keys to keep the fob protected from harm.