15 Smart Car Key Programming Benefits Everybody Must Know
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
The smart key technology in vehicles allows drivers to open and start the car simply by grabbing the door handle or placing the key in the pocket. smart fortwo key programming allows various other adjustments, including seat position and internal temperature settings as well as mirror positioning.
This could also create security issues.
Security
Smart keys are highly sophisticated electronic keys that communicate with a vehicle via one of the car's embedded antennas to unlock the doors and begin the engine. Smart key fobs, as opposed to traditional keys, which emit the same frequency each time they're pressed, transmit encrypted signals that are compatible with the particular car to which they belong. This makes it more difficult for thieves with advanced technology to detect or spoof the signal and use your key to steal your vehicle.
For example, Mercedes' system -- called Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder, which identifies the key of the driver. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a vehicle it will automatically unlock the tailgate and door and starts the engine when the key's button is activated.
Furthermore some smart keys- like those from BMW include individual user settings that allow the driver to adjust seat, mirrors and steering wheel position and audio preferences at the click of the button. They also have an emergency lock that prevents the vehicle from starting without the key in the ignition.
This technology assists drivers from locking their cars, especially when searching through a purse or backpack to find keys in a parking lot packed with people or on a busy street with high rates of crime. Many systems also notify motorists when their keys are running low on battery, but this feature is dependent on the manufacturer.
Convenience
The smart key is ideal for those who are on the move and need to get somewhere. By pressing the button on your trunk release or door handle you can unlock, lock and get into your vehicle. The key fob will connect to your phone to keep track of charging and location as well as other information about the vehicle, according to Popular Mechanics.
You can't accidentally lock your keys in the car. The key fob is connected to an antenna inside the vehicle to determine if it's within the range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This will deter thieves from stealing your vehicle and selling parts of it.
The smart key also employs rolling codes to prevent hacking attempts and cloning, says BMW. A computer within the vehicle detects the code and verifies it prior to launching the engine. Most systems have a physical backup in the form of an invisible key blade.
Modern smart keys also detect which key is in use and adjust the vehicle settings in line with the use of the key, says How Stuff Works Electronics. If you turn on your vehicle while holding the key in your palm for instance windows and sunroof will open to ventilate the interior. You can also set the speed limit which will only be applied when the vehicle is started using the selected key, a feature that could be useful if you loan 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, hold the lock button down and then press the unlock button.
This will stop your smart key fob's ability to send or receiving radio waves that could extend its battery's life by a significant amount. You can always activate the function by pressing both the unlock and lock button again.
Certain smart keys also have anti-theft features that prevent them from being copied by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart keys utilize rolling codes to stop unauthorised access. When the smart key is inserted into the ignition, a computer within the car checks the code in milliseconds prior starting the engine. BMW has a similar system with its Display Key, which features a small LCD color touchscreen on the smart key for convenience, and lets drivers lock or unlock their vehicles without ever taking it from their pockets.
If you're thinking of buying the latest car equipped with a smart key, or you need the battery in your smart key fob replaced, call us at Pop-Alock for a quick and efficient service. We can replace the battery on any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths will help you set the system so that your car can recognize it.
Special Cases
Smart keys aren't 100% theft-proof, but they assist in preventing thieves. Smart keys are designed to prevent hackers from hacking the system. When they are inserted into the ignition of the vehicle, the computer verifies the code in milliseconds. This technology was developed by Mercedes-Benz and is now employed by a number of luxury car brands.
Another great feature is that most smart key systems will operate even if a user forgot the key in the trunk or left it in the restaurant, or lost it during the trail. Certain systems will notify the driver when the battery is running low. Certain brands provide key covers specifically designed for smart keys to keep the key safe from damage.