10 Healthy Smart Car Key Programming Habits

Vehicle Smart Key Technology

Vehicle smart key technology allows drivers to open and start the car by grabbing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also permits a variety of other adjustments, including seat position, internal temperature settings and mirror position.

However, this can also result in security issues.

Security

Smart keys are sophisticated electronic keys that communicate with the vehicle using one of the antennas that are embedded in the vehicle to open doors and begin the engine. smart car key programmer key fobs, in contrast to traditional keys that emit the same frequency every time they're used, transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the vehicle to which they belong to. This makes it harder for thieves with advanced technology to detect or spoof the signal, and use your key to steal your car.

Mercedes' Keyless Go system for instance, has an internal transponder which identifies the key of the driver. The Smart Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also turns on the engine by pressing a button on its key.

Some smart car keys replacement keys, such as the ones from BMW additionally have user-specific settings. These allow drivers to alter the seat, mirrors, steering wheel position, and even audio preferences with the click of a button. They also have a backup lock that blocks the vehicle from running without the key.

This technology helps drivers avoid not locking their cars properly, especially when searching in bags or purses for keys in a parking lot with people who are not familiar with the area or where crime is high. Many systems also notify drivers when keys are in danger of being depleted, though this feature is dependent on the manufacturer.

Convenience

If you're in a hurry to get to a place the smart key makes getting into your vehicle as easy as it can be. You can unlock, lock and start your car simply by pressing the door handle or the trunk release. The key fob can also interact with your phone to keep track of charging locations, charging times and other details about the vehicle, explains Popular Mechanics.

One of the biggest advantages is that you aren't able to accidentally lose your keys. The key fob communicates with the antenna inside the vehicle to determine if the key is in range. If it's not, the engine won't not start. This can deter thieves who might steal your car to sell the parts.

BMW reports that the smart key uses rolling codes to stop cloning and hacking. A computer within the vehicle is able to recognize the code and validates it prior to launching the engine. A majority of systems also have a mechanical backup that is the key blade, which is hidden for styling purposes.

Modern smart keys also detect the type of key being used and adjust the settings of the vehicle in accordance with the key's use, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. If you switch on the vehicle while holding the key in your hands, for example windows and sunroof will open to allow air circulation to the interior. You can also set a speed limit that will only be in effect when the car is started using the selected key, which could be useful if you loan 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 simply press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.

This will stop your smart key fob's ability to send or receiving radio signals, which will extend its battery's life considerably. You can always restart the function by pressing both the lock and unlock buttons again.

Certain smart car key fob keys also come with anti-theft features that prevent them from being copied by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart keys utilize rolling codes to block the unauthorized access. The computer in the car examines the code in milliseconds after the smart key is inserted. BMW utilizes a Display Key with a small LCD screen with a color. This lets drivers lock their cars, unlock their doors, and start them without removing the smart key from their pockets.

Call Pop-A-Lock if you need to replace the battery on the smart key fob you have or considering purchasing a vehicle with a smart-key. Our mobile locksmiths will replace the battery on any smart car key case key and assist you set it so that your car can recognize it.

Special Cases

Although smart keys aren't secure against theft, they can help to discourage thieves. Smart keys are designed to keep hackers from gaining access to the system. When they are inserted into the ignition of the car the computer checks the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz created this technology, which is now utilized by luxury car brands.

A smart key system will continue to work even if you forget the key in your trunk or leave it in a restaurant. Certain systems will notify the driver when the battery is running low. Certain brands have key covers specifically designed for smart keys to guard the fob from damage.