What is a Smart Key Car Key?

Sometimes referred to as keys for proximity as well as key fobs, remote keys, smart keys are used to unlock doors and start engines without the driver having to insert the physical key. They communicate via radiofrequency signals.

This helps to keep vehicles safe by not allowing hotwiring. Smart keys also broadcast unique encrypted signals to prevent them from being used by other vehicles driven by drivers.

Convenience

You can lock and unlock your vehicle without the need to insert the key into the ignition slot. Simply touch the handle on the door or trunk. Modern cars often come with a feature that lets you to start your car via the internet. This is especially helpful if you're bringing in groceries or transporting equipment and passengers.

This technology is designed to protect against theft of vehicles. Smart keys send out encrypted signals instead of a single frequency, similar to a traditional keyfob. How Stuff Works Electronics explains that it is impossible for other cars to receive and responding to the same signal.

Some manufacturers also use an electronic chip in the vehicle that can recognize the unique fingerprints of each key. This helps to ensure that only authorized users are using it. This is helpful when you loan your car to family members and friends.

Some smart keys can store user settings, so that seat, steering wheel mirror, seat, and stereo presets are automatically set when the key is within range of the car. Certain smart keys can be programmed to stop the vehicle from exceeding the speed limit when you start the car with that key. This will help keep new drivers safe and beneficial if you have young children in the back of the vehicle.

Security

Traditionally keys for cars were cut out of metal and used to unlock the ignition. smart key for car key technology eliminates this requirement. Smart keys come with a chip that transmits an electromagnetic signal from the antenna to your car. The car detects this signal when the driver presses on the trunk release or door handle. This means it's not possible to lock your keys into your car anymore.

The smart key's signal to your vehicle is encrypted to ensure that only you have access to it. The majority of models will also turn off the engine if the car hasn't been started for some time. This feature is particularly useful in case you're in a hazardous zone or need to leave the vehicle for any reason, such as at a petrol station.

Many systems also have an alternative system for opening and starting the car in case the battery of the smart key runs out while you are on a ride. The backup system typically consists of placing the key in a slot or holding it in a certain area of the cockpit that transfers energy to an electric motor. Some manufacturers also have an emergency mechanical key blade hidden inside the key that can be used to open the trunk and start the car if needed.

Battery Life

Most newer cars have keyless entry and push-button start systems operated by a smart key fob, which uses proximity technology to communicate with the car. These systems are powered by a tiny transmitter that is powered by a lithium coin-sized battery. Like any other battery it will eventually need replacement.

Although smart key fobs are made to last for years, they can suddenly lose power. If the fob's battery is dead you won't be able unlock or start your car even holding it near the front door.

It's not uncommon for the transmitter of the smart key to drain the battery. It sends a signal to your car each time you touch one button, however most times the smart key is doing nothing. The battery of a smart key is large enough to power several years of unlock and lock signals.

The fob will also drain the battery if it is located near other devices which emit electromagnetic field like phones and computers. These gadgets emit their own magnetic fields which can cause interference and slow down the fob transmitter. RepairPal states that the fob might cease to function if placed too close to the gadgets.

Maintenance

In contrast to the traditional car Key for smart car, a smart key uses technology to control the locks on your vehicle, and also perform other functions. It functions by transmitting an electronic signal from the fob to antennas located inside and outside the vehicle. These antennas sense the signal and communicate with the computer in your car. The car then interprets the signal and allows you to open or begin it without using a physical key.

New cars are loaded with high-tech electronic features and the fob is now an interface for many of these functions. The most obvious functions are locking and unlocking your car, remote start and chirping to help you locate your vehicle in a parking area. Certain fobs let you store various settings for various drivers, and remotely open windows and the sunroof.

The transmitter is a complicated device that has an integrated circuit board and it is susceptible to damage when exposed to cold or heat. The transmitter could be damaged if it is hit or dropped, and the battery contacts may also be bent.

These issues can be difficult to determine and repair. You can use your phone to solve this issue and see if it works. However, you should always keep an extra key in your pocket or case. You can purchase an equivalent replacement for the majority of OEM smart car key fob replacement keys, which costs up to 70% less and comes with a three-year better-than-OEM guarantee.