7 Things You'd Never Know About Smart Car Key Programming

Vehicle Smart Key Technology

The smart key technology found in vehicles enables drivers to unlock and start their vehicle by simply pressing the door handle, or putting the keys in the pocket. It also permits a variety of other adjustments, like seats positions and internal temperature settings, mirror positioning and stereo presets.

However, this could cause security issues.

Security

Smart keys are electronic keys that communicate with a vehicle through one of the antennas that are embedded in the vehicle to unlock the doors and to start the engine. Smart keys, unlike conventional keys that emit the same frequency each time they're pressed, transmit encrypted signals that are compatible with the car to which they belong to. This makes it much more difficult for tech-savvy criminals to spoof or intercept the signal and use your key to steal your car.

Mercedes' Keyless Go system, for example, has an internal transponder which identifies the key of the driver. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a vehicle, it automatically unlocks the tailgate and door and the engine will start when the key's button is activated.

Some smart keys, like the ones made by BMW and Mercedes-Benz, also come with user-specific settings, which allow users to alter the mirrors, seat and the steering wheel's position and even audio preferences with the click of a button. They also have a backup lock that prevents the vehicle from starting without the key.

This technology prevents drivers from locking their car, especially when they have to search their purse or backpack for keys in a parking space filled with strangers or on an area with high rates of crime. A lot of systems will alert drivers when the battery in their keys is not fully charged, though this feature can vary by the manufacturer.

Convenience

If you're in a hurry get somewhere, the smart key makes getting into your vehicle as easy as possible. You can lock, unlock and start your car simply by pressing the door handle or the trunk release. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used to monitor charging location, charging status, and other information about your vehicle.

A major benefit is that you won't accidentally lose your keys. The key fob communicates with an antenna in the vehicle to determine whether it's in range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This is a deterrent to thieves who may steal your vehicle to sell the parts.

The smart key uses rolling codes to deter hacking attempts as well as cloning, according BMW. The computer inside the vehicle detects the code and validates it prior to starting the engine. The majority of systems also have a mechanical backup in the form of an invisible key blade to serve as a styling tool.

Modern smart car key replacement keys also detect which key is in use and adjust the settings of the vehicle as needed, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. If you turn on the vehicle while holding the key in your hand for instance, the windows and the sunroof will be opened to let air circulate the interior. You can also set a speed limit that will only be applicable when the vehicle is started with the selected key, a feature that could be helpful when lending 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 replacement Cost key, or just want to make sure it won't die during a trip to the grocery store, you can activate an auto smart key replacement manufacturer-specific feature called Power Saving Mode. To activate it, press the lock button until you release it and press the unlock button.

This will block your smart key fob from being able to transmit or receive radio waves. This will greatly extend the battery's life. You can always activate the function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons again.

Certain smart keys also have anti-theft capabilities that protect them from being copied by thieves. For example, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to stop unauthorized access to the vehicle. The car's computer examines the code in milliseconds after the smart key is placed. BMW also has a similar system with its Display Key, which has an LCD touchscreen on the smart key for convenience and allows drivers to lock and unlock their cars without ever removing it from their pockets.

Contact us at Pop-A Lock if you require to replace the battery on your smart key fob if you are thinking of purchasing a vehicle with a smart-key. Our mobile locksmiths will replace the battery on any smart key and assist you set it up so that your car recognizes it.

Special Cases

While smart key for car keys are not theft-proof, they do help to discourage thieves. Smart keys employ rolling security codes to prevent hackers, and when put in the ignition, the vehicle's computer verifies the code within milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz created this technology, which is currently used by luxury car manufacturers.

A smart car key repair key system will work even if it is not possible to remember the key in the trunk or leave it at an establishment. Certain systems will also notify the driver when the battery is depleted. Certain brands provide key covers that are specifically designed for smart keys to protect the fob from damage.