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Vehicle Smart Key Technology

Vehicle smart key technology allows the driver to unlock and start the car by pressing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also allows a variety of other adjustments, like seating positions and internal temperature settings, mirror position and stereo presets.

However, it could also lead to security concerns.

Security

Smart keys are sophisticated electronic keys that communicate with a vehicle via one of the car's embedded antennas to unlock the doors and start the engine. Smart keys, unlike traditional keys that emit the same frequency every time they're used, transmit encrypted signals which are only compatible with the specific car to which they belong. This makes it harder for tech-savvy thieves to impersonate or intercept the signal and use the key to steal your car.

Mercedes' Keyless Go system for instance, has an internal transponder that 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 a button on the key is hit.

Some smart keys, such as those from BMW additionally have user-specific settings. These allow the driver to adjust the seat, mirrors, steering wheel position, and even audio preferences with the push of a button. They also come with an emergency lock that stops the vehicle from running without the key.

This technology assists drivers from accidentally locking their vehicles, particularly when searching through a purse or backpack to find keys in a parking space full of strangers or in an area with high crime rates. Some systems will also notify drivers if the key battery is low, but this feature can vary by the manufacturer.

Convenience

If you're in a hurry get somewhere, the smart key makes getting into your car as simple as it can be. By pressing the button on the trunk release or door handle you can lock, unlock and start your vehicle. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used to monitor charging locations, charging, and other vehicle information.

You can't accidentally lock your keys in the car. The key fob communicates with an antenna inside the vehicle to determine if it's within range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This will deter thieves from the vehicle and stealing its parts.

BMW reports that the smart key utilizes rolling codes to stop cloning and hacking. A computer within the vehicle reads the code and checks it prior to launching the engine. Most systems have a physical backup system in the form of an unnoticed key blade.

How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys also detect the key when it is in use and adjust the vehicle settings accordingly. For instance, if switch on the car while holding the key fob in your palm, the windows and sunroof open to let the air in the cabin breathe. You can also set a speed limit that will only apply when the vehicle is started using the specified key, a feature that could be useful when loaning your car to an inexperienced 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 prevent your smart key fob's smart device from being able to send or receive any radio waves. This will significantly increase the life of your battery. You can always restart the function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons again.

Certain smart keys come with anti-theft features that stop them from being stolen by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart key uses rolling codes to prevent the unauthorized access. The computer in the car examines the code in milliseconds after the replacement smart car key key is introduced. BMW uses a Display Key that has a small LCD color screen. This lets drivers lock their cars, open them, Vehicle Smart Key and even start them without taking the smart fortwo key replacement key from their pocket.

If you're thinking of buying the latest car equipped with a smart key, or require your smart key fob's battery replaced, call us at Pop-Alock for a quick and efficient service. Our mobile locksmiths can change the battery on any smart key and assist you set it up so that your car can recognize it.

Special Cases

Smart keys aren't 100% secure against theft, but they do aid in deterring thieves. Smart keys are designed to keep hackers from gaining access to the system. When placed in the ignition of the car, the computer verifies the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz developed this technology, which is now utilized by luxury car brands.

A smart key system will work even if it is not possible to remember the key in the trunk or leave it at a restaurant. Certain systems will also notify the driver if the battery is not fully charged. Certain brands provide key covers specifically designed for smart car key fob replacement keys. They ensure that the fob is protected from damage.