Vehicle Smart Key Technology

The smart key technology in vehicles allows a driver to unlock and start the car by pressing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also permits a variety of other adjustments, like seat positions and temperature settings inside the car, mirror position and stereo presets.

This could also create security worries.

Security

Smart keys are key fobs with computers that communicate with a vehicle through one of the antennas built into the car to unlock doors and start the engine. Smart key fobs, unlike traditional keys, which emit the same frequency every time they're pressed, transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the particular car to which they belong. This makes it more difficult for thieves who are tech-savvy to steal or spoof the signal and use the key to steal your car.

Mercedes' Keyless Go system, for example, has an internal transponder, which can identify the driver's keys. The Smart Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and the tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also allows you to start the engine by pressing the key.

Some smart keys, such as those from BMW additionally have user-specific settings that allow drivers to alter the seat, mirrors and the steering wheel's position and even audio preferences with the press of a single button. They also come with an emergency lock that stops the vehicle from running without the key.

This technology helps keep drivers from accidentally locking their cars, especially when fumbling in a purse or backpack for keys in a parking lot filled with strangers or on an area with high rates of crime. Many systems also alert drivers when their keys are not fully charged, however this feature is different for each manufacturer.

Convenience

If you're in a hurry get to a place, the smart key makes entering your car as simple as it can be. You can unlock, lock and start your car simply by pressing the door handle or the trunk release. Key fobs can also communicate with your phone to track charging, location and other information about the vehicle, says Popular Mechanics.

A major benefit is that you won't accidentally lose your keys. The key fob communicates with an antenna inside the vehicle to determine whether it's in range. If it's not, the engine won't start. This will deter thieves from stealing your vehicle and selling its parts.

The smart car key supplier key also makes use of rolling codes to ward off hacking attempts and cloning, says BMW. The vehicle's computer can recognize and verify the code before starting the motor. Most systems have a physical backup in the form of an invisible key blade.

How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys can be able to detect keys in use and adjust vehicle settings in line with the use of the key. For instance, if you turn on the car while holding the key fob in your palm, the windows and sunroof can be opened to ventilate the cabin. You can also set a speed limit that will only apply when the vehicle is started with the selected key, a feature that could be helpful when lending your car to a new 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 do this, press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.

This will prevent your smart key fob's ability to send or receiving radio signals and will increase the battery's life considerably. You can always restart this feature by pressing the unlock and lock buttons again.

Certain smart key for car keys also come with anti-theft capabilities that protect them from being copied by thieves. For example, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to stop unauthorized access to the vehicle. The computer in the car examines the code in milliseconds after the smart key is placed. BMW uses a similar method with its Display Key, which comes with a small LCD color touchscreen on the smart key for added convenience, and lets drivers lock or unlock their vehicles without ever taking the key from their pockets.

Contact Pop-A-Lock if your need to replace the battery on your replacement smart car key key fob, or if you are thinking of purchasing a vehicle with a smart-key. Our mobile locksmiths can change the battery of any smart key and help to set it up so that your car can recognize it.

Special Cases

Smart keys aren't% theft-proof but they can aid in deterring thieves. Smart key fobs are designed to stop hackers from gaining access to the system. When they are placed in the ignition of the vehicle, the computer verifies the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz developed this technology, which is currently used by luxury car brands.

Another great feature is that most smart key systems will operate in the event that the user forgets the key in the trunk or left it in an eatery or lost it during hiking. Certain systems will notify the driver when the battery is low. Some brands offer key covers that are specifically designed for smart keys, to shield the fob from damage.