7 Useful Tips For Making The Most Of Your Smart Car Key Programming
Vehicle Smart Key Technology
The smart key technology that is found in vehicles lets drivers unlock and start their car by simply rubbing the door handle, or putting the key in the pocket. It also allows many other adjustments including seat position the internal temperature setting and mirror position.
However, this could result in security issues.
Security
Smart keys are key fobs that are computerized that communicate with vehicles via an embedded antenna to unlock doors and begin the motor. Smart key fobs, unlike conventional keys that emit the same frequency each time they're pulled, transmit encrypted signals that are compatible with the specific car to which they belong to. This makes it harder for tech-savvy criminals to detect or spoof the signal and use your key to steal your car.
Mercedes' Keyless Go system for instance, has an internal transponder that identifies the driver's key. 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 press.
Certain smart keys, like the ones made by BMW additionally have user-specific settings, which allow the driver to alter the seat, mirrors and steering wheel's location and even the audio settings with the push of a button. They also have a backup lock that keeps the vehicle from starting if the key is not in the ignition.
This technology prevents drivers from not locking their cars properly particularly when they are searching the bag or purse for keys in the parking lot of strangers or on a busy street where crime is high. Many systems will also alert drivers if the key battery is depleted, though this feature varies by the manufacturer.
Convenience
If you're in a hurry get to a place the smart key makes entering your vehicle as simple as it can be. By pressing G28CarKeys on your trunk release lever or door handle, you can lock, unlock and open your vehicle. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used for tracking charging or location as well as other information about your vehicle.
You don't want to accidentally lock your keys inside the car. The key fob communicates with an antenna in the vehicle to determine if it's in range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This will stop thieves from stealing your vehicle and selling parts of it.
BMW reports that the smart key makes use of rolling codes to ward off hacking and cloning. The vehicle's computer detects and validates the code prior to launching the motor. Many systems also have a mechanical backup that is the key blade, which is hidden to serve as a styling tool.
Modern smart keys can also tell the key that is being used and adjust the vehicle settings in accordance with the key's use, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. For example, if you turn on the car holding the key fob in your palm the windows and sunroof open to ventilate the cabin. You can also set a speed limit which will only be applied when the car is powered by the chosen key. This feature can be beneficial if you're lending your car to someone with no 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, press the lock button until you release it and press the unlock button.
This will stop your smart key fob's ability to send or receiving radio waves which will increase its battery's lifespan significantly. You can always reactivate this function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.
Certain smart keys have anti-theft capabilities that protect them from being copied by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to stop unauthorized vehicle access. When a smart key is inserted into the ignition, a computer inside the car confirms the code in milliseconds, before it starts the engine. BMW utilizes a Display Key with a small LCD color screen. This lets drivers lock their vehicles, unlock them, and start the engine without having to take the smart key from their pocket.
Call Pop-A-Lock if you need to replace the battery on the smart key fob you have or should you be thinking of purchasing a vehicle with a smart-key. We can replace the battery in any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths will help you set the system so that your vehicle can recognize it.
Special Cases
While smart keys are not secure against theft, they can help to discourage thieves. Smart keys utilize rolling security codes to protect against hacking, and when placed in the ignition, the vehicle's computer verifies the code within milliseconds. This technology was developed by Mercedes-Benz and is now employed by many premium car brands.
A smart key system will continue to work even if you don't remember the key in the trunk or leave it at an establishment. Certain systems will also inform the driver when the battery is low. Certain brands provide key covers designed specifically for smart keys to protect the fob from damage.