All-Inclusive Guide To Smart Car Key Programming
From Shiapedia
vehicle smart Key, Opensourcebridge.Science, Technology
Vehicle smart key technology allows a driver to unlock and start the car simply by touching the door handle or vehicle smart key putting the key in the pocket. It also allows many other adjustments including seat position, internal temperature settings and mirror position.
However, this could result in security issues.
Security
Smart keys are key fobs that are computerized that communicate with vehicles through an embedded antenna. It can unlock doors and start the motor. Unlike conventional keys, which emit the same frequency signal every time they are pressed, smart key fobs transmit encrypted signals that are specific to the specific vehicle they belong to. This makes it more difficult for tech-savvy criminals to detect or spoof the signal, and then use your key to steal your car.
For instance, Mercedes' system -known as Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder that 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 a button on its key.
Furthermore some smart keyslike those made by BMW have their own user settings that let the driver adjust the mirrors, seat and steering wheel position and audio preferences at the click of one button. They also come with the backup lock, which keeps the vehicle from starting without the key in the ignition.
This technology helps keep drivers from locking their cars, especially when they have to search their purse or backpack to find keys in a parking space packed with strangers or on a busy street with high rates of crime. Many systems also notify drivers when their keys are low on battery, although this feature is dependent on the manufacturer.
Convenience
The smart key is ideal for those trying to get to their destination. You can unlock, lock and start your car simply by pressing a button on the door handle or the trunk release. The key fob will connect to your phone to track charging and location as well as other information regarding the vehicle, as explained by Popular Mechanics.
A big benefit is that you aren't able to accidentally get locked out. The key fob communicates with the antenna inside the vehicle to determine if it's in range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This will deter thieves who could steal your vehicle to sell its parts.
The smart key uses rolling codes to protect against hacking attempts and cloning, says BMW. A computer inside the vehicle recognizes the code and confirms it prior to starting the engine. Many systems also have a mechanical backup in the form of the key blade, which is hidden to serve as a styling tool.
How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys also detect the key used and adjust the car settings accordingly. For instance, if switch on the car while holding the key fob in your hands the windows and sunroof can be opened to ventilate the cabin. You can also set a speed limit that will only be in effect when the car is started with the selected key, which 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 make sure you press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.
This will prevent your smart key fob from being able to send or receive any radio waves. This will significantly extend the life of your battery. You can always restart this feature by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more.
Some smart keys have anti-theft functions that prevent them being copied by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart key uses rolling codes to block unauthorized access. The computer in the car checks the code milliseconds after the smart key is put in. BMW uses a similar method with its Display Key, which includes an LCD touchscreen on the smart key for ease of use and lets drivers lock, unlock, and start their cars without ever removing it from their pockets.
Contact Pop-Alock if you need to replace the battery on the smart key fob you have or considering purchasing a car with smart-key. We can replace the battery on any replacement smart car key key, and our mobile locksmiths will assist you in setting the system so that your car can recognize it.
Special Cases
While smart keys are not security-wise, they can be used to deter thieves. Smart keys utilize rolling security codes to protect against hackers, and when put in the ignition, the vehicle's computer validates the code within milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz created this technology, which is now utilized by luxury car brands.
Another useful feature is that many smart key for cars key systems will operate if the user forgot the key in the trunk or left it at an eatery or lost it on hiking. Certain systems will notify the driver when the battery is running low. Certain brands also offer key covers specifically designed for smart car key reprogramming keys to keep the fob protected from damage.
