Is Smart Car Key Programming As Important As Everyone Says?

Vehicle Smart Key Technology The smart key technology in vehicles allows the driver to unlock and start the car by pressing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also allows for many other adjustments such as the position of the seat and internal temperature settings as well as mirror positioning. However, this could also lead to security concerns. Security Smart keys are computerized key fobs that communicate with vehicles via an embedded antenna to unlock doors and activate the motor. Smart key fobs, as opposed to conventional keys that emit the same frequency every time they're pulled, transmit encrypted signals which are only compatible with the car to which they belong. This makes it much more difficult for thieves with a technological edge to steal or spoof the signal and use the key to steal your car. Mercedes' Keyless Go system for instance, has an internal transponder, which can identify the driver's keys. The Smart Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also turns on the engine by pressing the key. Additionally some smart keyslike those made by BMW include individual user settings that allow the driver to adjust seat, mirrors and the position of the steering wheel as well as audio preferences with the click of the button. They also have a backup lock that will stop the car from starting if the key is not in the ignition. This technology stops drivers from accidentally locking their vehicles particularly when they are searching a purse or a backpack for keys on parking lots with strangers or a busy street where crime is high. Some systems will also notify drivers when the battery in their keys is low, though this feature can vary by the manufacturer. Convenience The smart key is perfect for those who are in a hurry to get somewhere. You can unlock, lock and start your car simply by pressing the door handle or trunk release. The key fob can also communicate with your smartphone to track charging locations, charging times and other details about the vehicle, explains Popular Mechanics. You can't accidentally lock your keys inside the car. The key fob connects to an antenna inside the vehicle to determine whether it is within range. If it's not, the engine won't start. This will stop thieves from taking your vehicle and then selling its parts. BMW reports that the smart key employs rolling codes as well to ward off hacking and cloning. A computer inside the vehicle recognizes the code and validates it prior to launching the engine. Most systems have a physical backup system in the form of an invisible key blade. How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys also detect the key being used and adjust the vehicle settings according to the situation. For instance, if you turn on the car while holding the key fob in your palm the windows and sunroof will open to ventilate the cabin. You can also set up a speed limit which will only be in effect when the vehicle is powered by the specified key. This feature is beneficial if you're lending your car to someone who has no prior 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, hold the lock button, then press the unlock button. This will stop your smart key fob's smart chip from sending or receiving any radio signals and will increase the battery's lifespan significantly. You can always activate this feature by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more. Certain smart keys also come with anti-theft capabilities that protect them from being copied by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to stop unauthorized access to the vehicle. The car's computer checks the code milliseconds after the smart key is placed. BMW also has a similar system with its Display Key, which includes a small LCD color touchscreen on the smart key for ease of use and enables drivers to lock, unlock, and start their vehicles without ever taking the key from their pockets. Contact Pop-Alock if you need to replace the battery on your smart key fob or considering buying a car with a smart-key. G28CarKeys will replace the battery of any smart key and also help you set it so that your car recognizes it. Special Cases While smart keys are not theft-proof, they do help to stop thieves. Smart keys are designed to stop hackers from hacking into the system. When they are inserted into the ignition of the vehicle the computer validates the code in milliseconds. This technology was invented by Mercedes-Benz and is now utilized by a number of luxury car brands. A smart key system will work even if it is not possible to remember the key in the trunk or leave it at a restaurant. Some systems will also alert the driver when the battery is not fully charged. Certain brands have key covers specifically designed for smart keys, to shield the fob from damage.