Vehicle Smart Key Technology

Vehicle smart key technology allows drivers to unlock and start the car by touching the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also permits many other adjustments such as the position of the seat and internal temperature settings as well as mirror positioning.

However, this could also lead to security concerns.

Security

Smart keys are key fobs that are computerized and communicate with a vehicle via one of the car's embedded antennas to unlock the doors and begin the engine. Unlike conventional keys, which emit the same frequency signal each time they are press, smart key fobs transmit encrypted signals that only match the specific vehicle they belong to. This makes it much more difficult for thieves with a technological edge to impersonate or intercept the signal and use the key to take your car.

For instance, Mercedes' system -known as Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder which can identify the driver's key. The Smart Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and the tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also starts the engine by pressing the key.

Some smart car keys replacement keys, such as the ones from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, also come with user-specific settings that allow users to alter the seat, mirrors and the steering wheel's position and audio preferences at the press of a single button. They also have the backup lock, which stops the car from starting if the key is not in the ignition.

This technology prevents drivers from getting their car locked accidentally, especially when searching in backpacks or purses to find keys in a parking lot with strangers, or on a street where crime is high. Many systems also notify drivers when their keys are low on battery, although this feature is dependent on the manufacturer.

Convenience

If you're in a hurry to get to a place the smart key replacement near me key makes entering your vehicle as easy as it can be. By pressing the button on the trunk release or door handle, you can open, lock and start your vehicle. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can be used to track charging location, charging status, and other information about your vehicle.

A big benefit is that you don't lock yourself out. The key fob communicates with an antenna inside the vehicle to determine if it is within range. If it's not, the engine won't start. This helps deter would-be thieves who would steal your vehicle in order to sell its parts.

The smart key also employs rolling codes to protect against hacking attempts and cloning, says BMW. The computer inside the vehicle is able to recognize and verify the code prior to starting the motor. Most systems have a mechanical backup system in the form of an invisible key blade.

How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys also detect when the key is in use and adjust vehicle settings in accordance with the key's use. If you turn on your vehicle while holding the key in your hand, for example, the windows and the sunroof will be opened to let air circulate the interior. You can also set up a speed limit which will only be applied when the car is powered by the selected key. This feature is beneficial if you're lending your car to someone who has no prior experience.

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 it make sure you press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.

This will stop your smart key fob's smart chip from sending or receiving any radio signals and will increase the battery's lifespan significantly. You can always activate this function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons again.

Certain smart car key replacement cost uk keys have anti-theft features that prevent them from being copied by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorised access to the vehicle. When a smart key is put in the ignition, a computer inside the car confirms the code in milliseconds prior to beginning the engine. BMW utilizes a Display Key that has a tiny LCD screen with a color. This lets drivers lock their vehicles, unlock them, and start them without taking the smart key from their pockets.

If you're considering purchasing the latest car equipped with a smart key, or require the battery in your smart key fob replaced, contact Pop-A-Lock for a fast and easy service. We can replace the battery in any smart key replacement key and our mobile locksmiths can help you set it up so that your vehicle recognizes it.

Special Cases

While smart forfour key replacement keys are not security-wise, they can be used to deter thieves. Smart keys use rolling security codes to prevent the hacking of keys, and when they are placed in the ignition, the car's computer checks the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz developed this technology, which is now utilized by luxury car brands.

Another benefit is that the majority of smart key systems will continue to work even if the user has forgotten the key in the trunk or left it at the restaurant, or lost it during an excursion. Some systems will alert the driver when the battery is depleted. Certain brands have key covers specifically made for smart keys that keep the key safe from damage.