Why Smart Car Key Programming Is Greater Dangerous Than You Think

Vehicle Smart Key Technology

Vehicle smart key technology allows the driver to unlock and start the car simply by grabbing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also allows a variety of other adjustments like the position of the seat as well as internal temperature settings and mirror positioning.

This could also create security concerns.

Security

Smart keys are highly sophisticated computerized key fobs that communicate with vehicles via one of the antennas in the car to open doors and start the engine. As opposed to traditional keys, which emit the same frequency signal each time they are used, smart keys transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the car they belong to. This makes it much more difficult for hackers with the latest technology to intercept or spoof the signal, and use your key to steal your vehicle.

Mercedes' Keyless Go system for instance, 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 starts the engine when the key's button is pressed.

Additionally certain smart keys- like those from BMW include individual user settings that allow the driver to adjust the seat, mirrors and the position of the steering wheel as well as audio preferences at the push of a button. They also have the backup lock, which stops the vehicle starting without the key.

This technology protects drivers from getting their car locked accidentally, especially when searching in a purse or a backpack for keys on parking lots with strangers, or on a street where crime is high. Many systems will also inform drivers when the battery in their keys is low, though this feature varies from manufacturer manufacturer.

Convenience

The smart key replacement key is perfect for those who are in a hurry to get somewhere. You can lock, unlock and start your car by pressing a button on the door handle or trunk release. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used to track charging or location as well as other information about your vehicle.

A big benefit is that you can't accidentally get locked out. The key fob communicates with an antenna in the vehicle to determine whether it's in range. If not, the engine will not start. This will stop thieves from taking your vehicle and then selling parts of it.

BMW reports that the smart key makes use of rolling codes in order to ward off hacking and cloning. The computer inside the vehicle is able to recognize and verify the code prior to launching the motor. The majority of systems also have a backup mechanical system in the form of the key blade, which is hidden to serve as a styling tool.

Modern smart keys also know the key that is being used and adjust the settings of the vehicle as needed, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. For instance, if switch on the car while holding the key fob in your hand, the windows and sunroof open to ventilate the cabin. You can also set the speed limit to only be in effect when the car is started using the selected key, a feature that 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, press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.

This will disable your smart car key programming near me - This Web page - key fob's smart chip from sending or receiving radio signals, which will extend its battery's lifespan significantly. It is possible to reactivate the function by pressing both the lock and unlock buttons again.

Some smart car key recoding keys have anti-theft functions that prevent them being copied by thieves. For example, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to stop unauthorized access to the vehicle. The car's computer is able to verify the code within milliseconds following the smart roadster key programming key is placed. BMW has a similar system with its Display Key, which features a small LCD color touchscreen on the smart key to make it easier and lets drivers lock, unlock, and start their vehicles without ever taking it from their pockets.

If you're considering purchasing the latest car equipped with a smart key, or if you require the battery in your smart key fob replaced, call Pop-A-Lock for a quick and efficient service. Our mobile locksmiths will change the battery of any smart key, and will help you set it up so that your car recognizes it.

Special Cases

Although smart keys aren't safe from theft, they do assist to discourage thieves. Smart keys employ rolling security codes to avoid hackers, and when put in the ignition, the car's computer verifies the code within milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz invented this technology, which is now used by luxury car brands.

Another great feature is that many smart key systems will continue to operate even if the user has forgotten the key in the trunk or left it in a restaurant or lost it during a hike. Some systems will alert the driver when the battery is running low. Certain brands provide key covers specifically designed for smart keys to guard the fob from damage.