A Step-By-Step Guide To Selecting Your Smart Car Key Programming

Vehicle Smart Key Technology The smart key technology that is found in vehicles allows drivers to unlock and start their vehicle by simply rubbing the door handle, or putting the key in the pocket. It also allows for a variety of other adjustments, including the position of the seat as well as internal temperature settings and mirror positioning. However, this could cause security issues. Security Smart keys are advanced electronic keys that communicate with vehicles via one of the antennas in the car to open doors and start the engine. Smart key fobs, as opposed to conventional keys that emit the same frequency every time they're pressed, transmit encrypted signals which are only compatible with the particular car to which they belong to. This makes it harder for thieves with a technological edge to spoof or intercept the signal and use the key to take your car. For example, Mercedes' system — called Keyless Go — has an internal transponder which can identify the key of the driver. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a vehicle it instantly unlocks the tailgate and door, and the engine starts when the key's button is activated. Some smart keys, such as the ones from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, also come with user-specific settings. These allow the driver to adjust the seat, mirrors and the steering wheel's position and even the audio settings with the push of a button. They also come with an emergency lock that prevents the vehicle from starting if the key is not in the ignition. This technology prevents drivers from being unable to lock their vehicle 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. Many systems will also inform drivers if the key battery is low, though this feature varies from manufacturer the manufacturer. Convenience If you're in a hurry get somewhere, the smart key makes getting into your vehicle as easy as possible. You can unlock, lock and start your car simply by pressing the door handle or trunk release. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can be used to track charging or location as well as other vehicle information. A major benefit is that you can't accidentally be 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 will deter thieves from taking your vehicle and then selling its parts. The smart key also uses rolling codes to deter hacking attempts and cloning, reports BMW. A computer inside the vehicle recognizes the code and checks it prior to launching the engine. Many systems also have a backup mechanical system in the form of an invisible key blade to be used for styling purposes. Modern smart keys also detect which keys are in use and adjust the vehicle settings accordingly, notes How Stuff Works Electronics. If you switch on the vehicle while holding the key in your palm, for example windows and the sunroof will open to ventilate the interior. You can also set up the speed limit to only be used when the car is powered by the selected key. This feature could be useful if you're loaning 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 you need to press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button. smart key for car near me will disable your smart key fob's ability to send or receiving radio signals that could extend its battery's life by a significant amount. You can reactivate this function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more. Some smart keys include anti-theft features to prevent them from being stolen by thieves. For example, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to stop unauthorized access to vehicles. When a smart key is inserted in the ignition, a computer inside the car verifies the code in milliseconds prior it starts the engine. BMW offers a similar system with its Display Key, which includes a small LCD color touchscreen on the smart key for ease of use, and allows drivers to lock or unlock their vehicles without ever taking the key from their pockets. Contact Pop-A-Lock if your need to replace the battery on your smart key fob in the event that you are thinking of purchasing a car that has a smart-key. Our mobile locksmiths can change the battery of any smart key and also help to set it up so that your car can recognize it. Special Cases Smart keys aren't 100 100% theft-proof, but they aid in deterring thieves. Smart keys are designed to deter hackers from hacking into the system. When they are placed in the ignition of the vehicle the computer validates the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz invented this technology, which is currently used by luxury car brands. A smart key system will continue to function even if you lose the key in the trunk or leave it at an establishment. Certain systems will notify the driver when the battery is not fully charged. Certain brands have key covers that are specifically designed for smart keys, to shield the fob from damage.