10 Smart Car Key Programming Tricks All Experts Recommend

Vehicle Smart Key Technology The smart key technology found in vehicles allows drivers to unlock and start their car by just touching the door handle, or putting the key in the pocket. It also allows for a variety of other adjustments, including seat position and internal temperature settings as well as mirror positioning. This can also cause security concerns. Security Smart keys are key fobs that are computerized which communicate with the vehicle via an embedded antenna to unlock doors and activate the motor. Contrary to conventional keys, which emit the identical frequency signal each time they are press, smart key fobs transmit encrypted signals that only match the car they belong to. This makes it difficult for hackers with the latest technology to intercept or spoof the signal, and use your key to steal your car. Mercedes' Keyless Go system, for example, has an internal transponder that can identify the key of the driver. The Smart Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also begins the engine by pressing the key. smart forfour key , such as the ones from BMW additionally have user-specific settings that permit the driver to alter the mirrors, seat, steering wheel position, and audio preferences with the press of a single button. They also come with a backup lock that keeps the vehicle from starting without the key in the ignition. This technology helps drivers avoid getting their car locked accidentally especially when looking in backpacks or purses for keys on an open parking lot with strangers or on a busy street where crime is high. Some systems also notify drivers when their keys are running low on battery, but this feature differs by manufacturer. Convenience If you're in a hurry get somewhere the smart key makes entering your vehicle as easy as possible. By pressing the button on your trunk release or door handle you can lock, unlock and begin your vehicle. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used to track charging or location as well as other information about your vehicle. A major benefit is that you can't accidentally get locked out. The key fob communicates with the antenna inside the vehicle to determine whether it's in range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This helps deter would-be thieves who may steal your vehicle in order to sell its parts. The smart key also employs rolling codes to ward off hacking attempts and cloning, reports BMW. The vehicle's computer is able to recognize and verify the code prior to launching the motor. The majority of systems also have a mechanical backup in the form of an unnoticed key blade to enhance the appearance of the. How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys also detect when the key is in use and adjust vehicle settings in accordance with the key's use. For instance, if switch on the car while holding the key fob in the palm of your hand the windows and sunroof open to let air circulate through the cabin. You can also set a speed limit that will only be in effect when the car is started using the specified key, which could be useful if you loan your vehicle to a novice 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 simply press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button. This will disable your smart key fob's ability to send or receiving radio waves, which will extend its battery's life by a significant amount. You can always restart this function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons again. 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 block unauthorized vehicle access. The car's computer is able to verify the code within milliseconds following the smart key is introduced. BMW has a similar system with its Display Key, which includes an LCD touchscreen on the smart key for ease of use and lets drivers lock and unlock their cars without ever removing it from their pockets. If you're thinking about buying a new car with a smart key, or need your smart key fob's battery replaced, contact Pop-A-Lock for a quick and simple service. We can replace the battery in any smart key and our mobile locksmiths are able to help you set the system so that your vehicle recognizes it. Special Cases Smart keys aren't 100% theft-proof but they can aid in deterring 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. Mercedes-Benz developed this technology, which is currently used by luxury car manufacturers. Another great feature is that many smart key systems will continue to operate if the user forgot the key in the trunk or left it at the restaurant, or lost it on a hike. Certain systems will notify the driver when the battery is not fully charged. Certain brands also offer keys with covers specifically designed for smart keys that protect the fob from damage.