Why All The Fuss About Smart Car Key Programming?

Vehicle smart car key replacement cost uk Key Technology

The smart key technology that is found in automobiles allows drivers to open and start their car by simply pressing the door handle, or by putting the key into the pocket. It also enables a range of other adjustments like seats positions and internal temperature settings, stereo presets and mirror positions.

However, it could also lead to security concerns.

Security

Smart keys are highly sophisticated computerized key fobs that communicate with the vehicle using one of the antennas in the car to open the doors and begin the engine. Contrary to conventional keys, which emit the same frequency signal each time they are pressed, smart car keys replacement key fobs transmit encrypted signals that are specific to the car they belong to. This makes it more difficult for hackers with the latest technology to spoof or intercept the signal, and use your key to steal your vehicle.

Mercedes' Keyless Go system for instance, comes with an internal transponder that identifies the key of the driver. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a vehicle it automatically unlocks the tailgate and door, and the engine starts when a button on the key is pressed.

Some smart keys, like the ones made by BMW additionally have user-specific settings, which allow the driver to alter the seat, mirrors and steering wheel's location and audio preferences with the push of a button. They also have an emergency lock that prevents the vehicle from starting without the key in the ignition.

This technology can prevent drivers from accidentally locking their cars, especially when they have to search their purse or backpack to find keys in a parking lot filled with strangers or on a busy street with high rates of crime. Many systems also notify drivers when the key is low on battery, although this feature is different for each manufacturer.

Convenience

The smart key is ideal for those trying to get somewhere. You can lock, unlock and start your car simply by pressing the door handle or the trunk release. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used to track charging, location, and other information about your vehicle.

One of the biggest advantages is that you aren't able to 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 will deter thieves who may steal your vehicle in order to sell its parts.

The smart key also employs rolling codes to deter hacking attempts and cloning, says BMW. A computer within the vehicle recognizes the code and confirms it prior to starting the engine. Most systems have a physical backup in the form of an invisible key blade.

Modern smart car keys replacement keys can also tell the key that is being used and adjust the car settings accordingly, notes How Stuff Works Electronics. For instance, if start the car while holding the key fob in your palm, the windows and sunroof will open to let the air in the cabin breathe. You can also set a speed limit that will only apply when the vehicle is started using the specified key, which could be useful if you loan your car to a new 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, hold down the lock button and press the unlock button.

This will stop your smart key fob from having to send or receive any radio waves. This will significantly extend the battery's life. It is possible to reactivate the function by pressing both the unlock and lock button again.

Certain smart keys come with anti-theft functions that prevent them being stolen by thieves. For example, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to prevent unauthorized vehicle access. When the smart key is inserted in the ignition, a computer in the car checks the code in milliseconds prior beginning the engine. BMW makes use of a Display Key with a small LCD screen with a color. This lets drivers lock their cars, unlock them, and then start them without removing the smart key from their pocket.

If you're considering purchasing an automobile with a smart key, or if you require 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 will assist you in setting it up so that your car can recognize it.

Special Cases

Although smart keys aren't safe from theft, they do assist to stop thieves. smart key car key fobs are designed to keep hackers from gaining access to the system. When placed in the ignition of the car, the computer verifies the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz created this technology, which is currently used by luxury car manufacturers.

Another useful feature is that most smart key systems will continue to work even if the user has forgotten the key in the trunk or left it in a restaurant or lost it during a hike. Some systems will alert the driver when the battery is not fully charged. Certain brands provide key covers that are specifically designed for smart keys to guard the fob from damage.