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Are Smart Car Key Programming As Important As Everyone Says?
Vehicle Smart Key Technology

The smart key technology in vehicles allows the driver to unlock and start the car by grabbing the door handle or placing the key in the pocket. It also permits a variety of other adjustments, such as seating positions and internal temperature settings, mirror positioning and stereo presets.

This can also cause security issues.

Security

Smart keys are advanced key fobs that are computerized and communicate with a vehicle via one of the antennas that are embedded in the vehicle to open the doors and start the engine. Unlike conventional keys, which emit the identical frequency signal each time they are pressed, smart key fobs transmit encrypted signals that only match the car they belong to. This makes it harder for thieves with advanced technology to intercept or spoof the signal, and use your key to steal your car.

For instance, Mercedes' system -known as Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder that identifies the key of the driver. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a car, it automatically unlocks the door and tailgate and the engine will start when the key's button is activated.

Furthermore there are smart keys that- like those from BMW come with individual user settings that let the driver adjust the mirrors, seat and the steering wheel's position and audio preferences at the push of one button. They also come with a backup lock that prevents the vehicle from starting if the key is not in the ignition.

This technology assists drivers from accidentally locking their cars, particularly when searching through a purse or backpack for keys in a parking lot full of strangers or in a busy street with high rates of crime. A lot of systems will also notify drivers when their keys are in danger of being depleted, though this feature differs by manufacturer.

Convenience

The smart key is perfect for those who are in a rush to get somewhere. You can lock, unlock and start your car simply by pressing the door handle or trunk release. The key fob can also connect to your phone to keep track of charging, location and other data about the vehicle, explains Popular Mechanics.

You shouldn't lock your keys in the car. The key fob communicates with an antenna within the vehicle to determine whether it's in range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This helps deter would-be thieves who would take your vehicle and sell the parts.

BMW reports that the smart key makes use of rolling codes to protect against hacking and cloning. The computer inside the vehicle recognizes and verifies the code before starting the motor. Most systems also have a mechanical backup that is a key blade that's hidden for styling purposes.

Modern smart keys also know which keys are in use and adjust the settings of the vehicle in accordance with the key's use, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. For example, if you switch on the car while holding the key fob in your hands, the windows and sunroof can be opened to let air circulate through the cabin. You can also set a speed limit that will only be applied when the vehicle is powered by the chosen key. This feature could be beneficial if you're lending your vehicle to a driver who is not experienced.

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 do this, press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.

This will stop your smart key fob to transmit or receive radio waves. This will significantly extend the battery's life. You can always reactivate the function by pressing 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 employ rolling codes to prevent access by anyone who is not authorized to use it. When the smart key is inserted in the ignition, a computer inside the car confirms the code in milliseconds, before starting the engine. BMW uses a Display Key that has a small LCD color screen. www.g28carkeys.co.uk allows drivers to lock their cars, open them, and start them without removing the smart key from their pockets.

Contact Pop-Alock if you need to replace the battery on your smart key fob if you are thinking of buying a car with a smart-key. Our mobile locksmiths can replace the battery on any smart key, and will help to set it so that your car recognizes it.

Special Cases

Although smart keys aren't theft-proof, they do help to stop thieves. Smart keys employ rolling security codes to protect against hacking, and when placed in the ignition, the car's computer checks the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz invented this technology, which is now used by luxury car brands.

A smart key system will continue to function even if you lose the key in the trunk or leave it in an establishment. Certain systems will notify the driver when the battery is depleted. Certain brands also offer key covers specifically designed for smart keys that keep the key safe from harm.