How To Outsmart Your Boss With Smart Car Key Fob Replacement

What Can a Smart Car Key Fob Do For You?

Mercedes introduced the first fobs in 1998. They are also referred to as smart keys, keyless entry or keyless entry fobs. These computer-controlled fobs are capable of performing various tasks like locking and unlocking the vehicle or beginning it.

They work by broadcasting an encrypted stream. This makes them more receptive to hackers with a technological edge.

Safety

A smart key fob continually communicates with vehicles by radiofrequency waves. It sends a low-power signal that, when pressed tells the car to unlock doors and start its engine. The car is programmed to recognize the unique encrypted code of a particular key fob. This means that even when the key fob is stolen, it can't be used to start the car.

A new hack allows thieves to take advantage of this type of communication. Relay attacks are carried out with devices that transmit at the same rate as key fobs. A burglar can put one of these gadgets in a purse or hiding spot to jam the lock command from a distance. How Stuff Works Electronics. It's a problem that could become more commonplace as more drivers switch to smart car key coding keys.

Aside from these security features, an intelligent key fob could simplify your life by automatically tending to the needs of your vehicle. A key fob that is connected to your smartphone, for example, can detect your presence and allow you to unlock the doors, so you don't need to press the remote button. It could also detect that you are leaving the car and automatically lock it, so that you aren't tempted to forget to lock the doors. A majority of smart key fobs have a battery indicator which warns you when the battery is not fully charged. Most models allow you to replace the battery quickly and conveniently without any tools or equipment required.

Convenience

Smart keys are not required to be inserted physically into an ignition slot to open or start the car key shop near me. BMW Group explains that the driver is only required to bring the key within reach of the car. Certain smart keys, like the Display Key, have a small LCD touchscreen that grants drivers access to features such as locking, unlocking and keyless start directly from their key fob without the need to connect to the Bluetooth system in the car.

A smart key can also help drivers save time by automating the closing of their car doors after they leave. Consumer Reports says that this feature is available on a wide range of vehicles. It also makes it easier for drivers to maneuver into tight spaces without accidentally crushing the door or something else.

Additionally, smart key systems generally do not transmit the same frequency signal over and over in order to make them more susceptible to relay attacks, as explained by Open Road Auto Group. As such the vehicle that is stolen cannot be connected to a hotwire if equipped with a smart-key because the encrypted signal that the key fob transmits is unique to each car. This makes it extremely difficult for thieves steal a car.

Security

Some of the high-tech electronic features in today's newer automobiles are included in the key fob. These devices can do much more than simply locking and unlocking doors, or making chirping sounds to assist drivers locate their car in parking lots. However, some owners may be unaware of the full capabilities.

Certain keys, such as example, can activate the automatic windows and sunroof of an automobile when they are pressed. A auto editor for CR once went out to her Honda Accord only to find all the windows down and sunroof opened. This is one of the reasons she was grateful for her Smart Key, which locked the vehicle automatically.

Certain smart keys use encrypted computer signals to deter car thieves according to How Stuff Works. This technology stops hotwiring, in which thieves take the vehicle's engine control module (ECM) which is usually located on the front of the engine block. The ECM controls a variety of essential functions, including transmission control and engine power.

smart car key replacement keys also come with anti-theft codes as well as a unique security code for ID assigned to each key. This can disable the ignition when the wrong key is used. The security ID is a number that is transmitted by the ECM from the key to the ignition, and then verified by a sensor in the car.

Maintenance

Smart car key fobs can do more than unlock the door. It can start your engine, and also activate the brakes and suspension remotely. It can also provide information about your vehicle, like fuel level and temperature of the oil.

Like all electronic equipment like a smart car key fob needs regular maintenance in order to function correctly. Modern key fobs have indicators for batteries that notify the driver when it is time to replace the battery. Replacing the battery is a simple procedure, and no special tools are required.

In some instances the smart key could stop working completely. If you suspect this is the case attempt to reset the smart key by exiting the vehicle, then returning inside. This will let the car recognize that the fob is in use and allow it to return to normal operation.

If you can't get your fob to function, contact a locksmith to help. They can reprogram it to ensure that your vehicle recognizes it and allows you to use all of its functions. This is usually less expensive than purchasing a new key and can save you money over time. In some instances the locksmith may fix a fob that is already in use to be used to make new keys. This can save you even more money in the long run.