10 Smart Car Key Programming Techniques All Experts Recommend

Vehicle Smart Key Technology The technology of smart keys in vehicles enables drivers to unlock and start their car by simply touching the door handle or by putting the key into the pocket. It also enables a range of other adjustments like seating positions and internal temperature settings, mirror positioning and stereo presets. However, this can also create security concerns. Security Smart keys are sophisticated electronic keys that communicate with the vehicle using one of the car's embedded antennas to unlock the doors and start the engine. Smart keys, unlike conventional keys that emit the same frequency each time they're used, transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the vehicle to which they belong to. This makes it much more difficult for tech-savvy criminals to intercept or fake the signal, and use your key to steal your vehicle. For instance, Mercedes' system -known as Keyless Go — has an internal transponder, which identifies the driver's key. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a car it will automatically unlock the door and tailgate and starts the engine when the key's button is activated. Certain smart keys, such as the ones from BMW additionally have user-specific settings that permit drivers to alter the seat, mirrors and steering wheel's position and audio preferences at the click of a button. They also come with the backup lock, which stops the vehicle starting without the key. This technology protects drivers from accidentally locking their vehicles particularly when they are searching backpacks or purses for keys in parking lots with strangers, or on a street where crime is high. Many systems also alert drivers when the key is in danger of being depleted, though this feature is different for each manufacturer. Convenience If you're in a hurry get somewhere, the smart key makes getting into your car as simple as it can be. You can unlock, lock and start your car by pressing a button on the door handle or the trunk release. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can be used to track charging or location as well as other vehicle information. It isn't safe to lock your keys inside the car. The key fob communicates with an antenna inside the vehicle to determine if it's in range. If not, the engine will not start. This will stop thieves from absconding with your vehicle and selling its parts. The smart key uses rolling codes to ward off hacking attempts and cloning, says BMW. The computer inside the vehicle is able to recognize and verify the code prior the start of the motor. A majority of systems also have a mechanical backup that is the key blade, which is hidden to enhance the appearance of the. How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys also detect the keys being used and adjust the vehicle settings accordingly. For instance, if you start the car while holding the key fob in your hands the windows and sunroof will open to let air circulate through the cabin. You can also set the speed limit to 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, hold down the lock button and press the unlock button. This will prevent your smart key fob from sending or receiving radio signals that could extend its battery's life considerably. You can always activate the function by pressing the lock and unlock buttons again. Certain smart keys have anti-theft functions that prevent them being stolen by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorised access to the vehicle. new smart car key in the car is able to verify the code within milliseconds following the smart key is put in. BMW uses a similar method with its Display Key, which comes with a small LCD color touchscreen on the smart key for ease of use, and allows drivers to lock and unlock their vehicles without ever taking the key from their pockets. If you're thinking about buying a new car with a smart key, or if you require the battery in your smart key fob changed, contact us at Pop-A Lock to get a quick and easy service. We can replace the battery on any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths are able to assist you in setting it up to make sure your vehicle recognizes it. Special Cases Smart keys are not 100% theft-proof but they can aid in deterring thieves. Smart keys use rolling security codes to avoid hacking, and when placed in the ignition, the car's computer validates the code within milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz created this technology, which is currently used by luxury car manufacturers. Another benefit is that the majority of smart key systems will continue to function even if the user has forgotten the key in the trunk, left it at the restaurant or if it is lost on hiking. Some systems will also notify the driver if the battery is depleted. Certain brands also offer key covers specifically designed for smart keys. They protect the fob from damage.