Say "Yes" To These 5 Smart Car Key Programming Tips

Vehicle Smart Key Technology

The technology of smart keys in automobiles allows drivers to open and start their car by simply touching the door handle, or putting the keys in the pocket. It also allows for a variety of other adjustments like seat positions as well as internal temperature settings mirror position and stereo presets.

However, this could result in security issues.

Security

Smart keys are key fobs with computers that communicate with the vehicle using one of the car's embedded antennas to unlock the doors and to start the engine. Unlike conventional keys, which emit the same frequency signal each time they are used, smart keys transmit encrypted signals that only match the specific car they belong to. This makes it difficult for thieves with the latest technology to impersonate 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.  smart car key recoding  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.

Furthermore, some smart keys -- like those from BMW include individual user settings that allow the driver to alter the seat, mirrors, the position of the steering wheel as well as audio preferences at the push of the button. They also come with a backup lock that blocks the vehicle starting without the key.

This technology stops drivers from being unable to lock their vehicle and causing damage to their vehicle, particularly when searching backpacks or purses for keys in a parking lot with people who are not familiar with the area or where crime is high. A lot of systems will alert drivers when the battery in their keys is depleted, though this feature can vary by manufacturer.

Convenience

The smart key is perfect for those who are in a hurry to get to their destination. You can unlock, lock and start your car simply by pressing a button on the door handle or trunk release. The key fob will also connect to your phone to track charging and location as well as other information about the vehicle, says Popular Mechanics.

You don't want to accidentally lock your keys inside the car. The key fob communicates with an antenna within the vehicle to determine if the key is in range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This will deter thieves from absconding with your vehicle and selling parts of it.

BMW reports that the smart key employs rolling codes to protect against hacking and cloning. The computer inside the vehicle detects the code and validates it prior to launching the engine. The majority of systems also have a mechanical backup in the form of an unnoticed key blade to serve as a styling tool.

Modern smart keys also know the type of key being used and adjust the car settings in accordance with the key's use, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. For instance, if start the car while holding the key fob in your hands, the windows and sunroof open to ventilate the cabin. You can also set an upper limit on speed that will only be in effect when the car is started with the selected key, which could be useful when loaning 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 do this you need to press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button.

This will block your smart key fob's ability to send or receiving radio waves which will increase its battery life significantly. You can always activate the function by pressing both the lock and unlock buttons again.

Some smart keys also have anti-theft functions that stop them from being copied by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart keys employ rolling codes to block the unauthorized access. When the smart key is inserted into the ignition, a computer inside the car verifies the code in milliseconds prior starting the engine. BMW utilizes a Display Key that has a small LCD color screen. This lets drivers lock their vehicles, unlock them, and start them without having to remove the smart key from their pockets.

If you're thinking about buying a new car that has a smart key, or require the battery in your smart key replaced, call Pop-A-Lock for a fast and easy service. Our mobile locksmiths can replace the battery of any smart key, and will help you set it so that your car can recognize it.

Special Cases

Although smart keys aren't safe from theft, they do assist to deter thieves. Smart key fobs are designed to keep hackers from hacking into the system. When they are placed in the ignition of the car, the computer verifies the code in milliseconds. This technology was developed by Mercedes-Benz and is now used by many premium car brands.

A smart key system will work even if it is not possible to remember the key in your trunk or leave it in the restaurant. Certain systems will also notify the driver if the battery is running low. Some brands offer key covers specifically designed for smart keys. They keep the fob protected from damage.