How Smart Car Key Programming Can Be Your Next Big Obsession

Vehicle Smart Key Technology

The smart key technology found in automobiles allows drivers to open and start their car by just touching the door handle or by putting the key into the pocket. It also permits a variety of other adjustments like seats positions as well as internal temperature settings mirror positioning and stereo presets.

This could also raise security issues.

Security

Smart keys are advanced computerized key fobs that communicate with the vehicle using one of the antennas that are embedded in the vehicle to unlock doors and begin the engine. In contrast to conventional keys that emit the same frequency signal each time they are activated, smart keys transmit encrypted signals that are specific to the specific car they belong to. This makes it harder for tech-savvy criminals to intercept or fake the signal, and then use your key to steal your vehicle.

For example, Mercedes' system -- called Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder which can identify 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 allows you to start the engine by pressing a button on its key.

Additionally there are smart keys thatlike those made by BMW come with individual user settings that let the driver adjust the mirrors, seat and the position of the steering wheel as well as audio preferences at the click of a button. They also come with a backup lock that stops the car from starting if the key is not in the ignition.

This technology protects drivers from not locking their cars properly particularly when they are searching bags or purses for keys in an open parking lot with strangers or on a busy street where crime is high. Many systems also notify drivers when keys are in danger of being depleted, though this feature differs by manufacturer.

Convenience

If you're in a hurry to get somewhere the smart key makes entering your car as easy as it can be. You can lock, unlock and start your car simply by pressing a button on the door handle or the trunk release. The key fob can also communicate with your smartphone to track charging, location and other data about the vehicle, explains Popular Mechanics.

The main benefit is that you don't get locked out. The key fob communicates with 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 taking your vehicle and then selling parts of it.

The smart key uses rolling codes to deter hacking attempts and cloning, according to BMW. A computer in the vehicle reads the code and verifies it prior to starting the engine. Most systems have a mechanical backup system in the form of an invisible key blade.

Modern smart keys can also tell which key is in use and adjust the car settings in accordance with the key's use, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. For instance, if you turn on the car while holding the key fob in your palm the windows and sunroof will open to let the air in the cabin breathe. You can also set the speed limit which will only be applied when the vehicle is started using the selected key, which 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 you need to 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 greatly extend the life of your battery. You can always restart this feature by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.

Certain smart keys also come with anti-theft features that prevent them from being copied by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart keys employ rolling codes to block access by anyone who is not authorized to use it. The car's computer examines the code in milliseconds after the smart key is put in. BMW utilizes a Display Key that has a tiny LCD screen with a color. This allows drivers to lock their cars, unlock their doors, and start them without taking the smart key from their pockets.

Contact Pop-Alock if you need to replace the battery in your smart key fob, or should you be thinking of purchasing a car with smart-key. We can replace the battery on any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths can assist you in setting the system so that your vehicle recognizes it.

Special Cases

Smart keys aren't 100% secure against theft, but they do aid in deterring thieves. Smart keys employ rolling security codes to avoid hacking, and when placed in the ignition, the vehicle's computer verifies the code within milliseconds.  G28 Car Keys  was invented by Mercedes-Benz and is now employed by many luxury car brands.

A smart key system will work even if it is not possible to remember the key in your trunk or leave it in a restaurant. Certain systems will notify the driver when the battery is not fully charged. Certain brands have key covers specifically designed for smart keys that keep the key safe from harm.