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15 Shocking Facts About Smart Car Key Programming You've Never Known
Vehicle Smart Key Technology

The smart key technology that is found in vehicles enables drivers to unlock and start their car by simply pressing the door handle, or placing the key into the pocket. It also allows for a variety of other adjustments, including seating positions as well as internal temperature settings mirror positioning and stereo presets.

However, this could create security concerns.

Security

Smart keys are computerized key fobs that communicate with the vehicle through an embedded antenna to unlock doors and begin the motor. Contrary to conventional keys, which emit the same frequency signal every time they are pressed, smart key fobs transmit encrypted signals that are only compatible with the car they belong to. This makes it more difficult for thieves with a technological edge to impersonate or intercept the signal and use the key to steal your car.

Mercedes' Keyless Go system for instance, comes with 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 a button on its key.

Some smart keys, like the ones made by BMW additionally have user-specific settings, which allow users to alter the mirrors, seat and the steering wheel's position and even audio preferences with the press of a single button. They also have the backup lock, which stops the vehicle from running without the key.

This technology protects drivers from being unable to lock their vehicle especially when looking in bags or purses to find keys in parking lots 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 varies by manufacturer.

Convenience

The smart key is ideal for those who are in a hurry to get to their destination. By pressing the button on your trunk release lever or door handle, you can lock, unlock and start your vehicle. The key fob will interact with 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 don't lose your keys. The key fob communicates with an antenna within the vehicle to determine whether it's in range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This can deter thieves who could steal your vehicle to sell the parts.

BMW reports that the smart key makes use of rolling codes to ward off hacking and cloning. The computer inside the vehicle recognizes and verifies the code before starting the motor. Many systems also have a mechanical backup in the form of a key blade that's hidden to be used for styling purposes.

Modern smart keys also know the type of key being used and adjust the car settings as needed, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. If you start the vehicle while holding the key in your palm, for example windows and the sunroof will be opened to let air circulate the interior. You can also set the speed limit which will only be in effect when the car is started using the selected key, a feature that could be useful if you loan your car 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 activate it, press the lock button until you release it and press the unlock button.

This will block your smart key fob to transmit or receive radio waves. This will dramatically extend the life of your battery. You can always restart this function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons again.

Some smart keys have anti-theft features to prevent them from being stolen by thieves. For example, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to prevent unauthorized vehicle access. When the smart key is inserted into the ignition, a computer within the car verifies the code in milliseconds prior beginning the engine. BMW uses a similar method with its Display Key, which comes with a small LCD color touchscreen on the smart key for convenience, and allows drivers to lock or unlock their vehicles without ever taking the key from their pockets.

Contact us at Pop-A Lock if you require to replace the battery on your smart key fob or if you are thinking of purchasing a car that has a smart-key. We can replace the battery in any smart key, and our mobile locksmiths will help you set the system so that your vehicle recognizes it.

Special Cases


While smart keys aren't safe from theft, they do assist to discourage thieves. car smart key programming near me G28 Car Keys use rolling security codes to avoid hackers, and when put in the ignition, the vehicle's computer verifies the code within milliseconds. This technology was invented by Mercedes-Benz and is now utilized by many premium car brands.

A smart key system will work even if you don't remember the key in your trunk or leave it in the restaurant. Some systems will also notify the driver when the battery is depleted. Certain brands also offer key covers specifically designed for smart keys to ensure that the fob is protected from damage.

Website: https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/smart-car-key-replacements-near-me/