Why Smart Car Key Programming Could Be More Dangerous Than You Realized
Vehicle Smart Key Technology The smart key technology found in vehicles lets drivers unlock and start their vehicle by simply touching the door handle or placing the key into the pocket. It also allows for a variety of other adjustments like the position of the seat, internal temperature settings and mirror positioning. However, this can also create security concerns. Security Smart keys are advanced computerized key fobs that communicate with a vehicle via one of the antennas in the car to unlock doors and to start the engine. Smart key fobs, unlike conventional keys that emit the same frequency every time they're pressed, transmit encrypted signals which are only compatible with the specific car to which they belong to. This makes it harder for hackers with the latest technology to spoof or intercept the signal and use your key to steal your car. smart keys for cars G28CarKeys , for example, has an internal transponder which identifies the driver's key. When the Smart Key comes within 1.5 meters of a car it instantly unlocks the door and tailgate, and the engine starts when the key's button is press. Some smart keys, like those made by BMW additionally have user-specific settings, which allow drivers to alter the seat, mirrors, steering wheel position, and audio preferences with the touch of a single button. They also have a backup lock, which will stop the car from starting without the key in the ignition. This technology stops drivers from getting their car locked accidentally especially when looking in the bag or purse to find keys in the parking lot of strangers or on a busy street where crime is high. A lot of systems will alert motorists when the battery for their key is low, but this feature can vary by manufacturer. Convenience The smart key is ideal for those in a hurry to get to their destination. By pressing the button on the trunk release or door handle, you can unlock, lock and begin your vehicle. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used to monitor charging or location as well as other vehicle information. The main benefit is that you can't accidentally lose your keys. The key fob communicates with an antenna in the vehicle to determine if it's in range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This helps deter would-be thieves who could steal your car to sell the parts. BMW reports that the smart key makes use of rolling codes, as well as to ward off hacking and cloning. The computer in the vehicle recognizes and verifies the code prior the start of the motor. Most systems come with a mechanical backup in the form of an invisible key blade. How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys can be able to detect keys in use and adjust vehicle settings according to the situation. For instance, if switch on the car while holding the key fob in the palm of your hand, the windows and the sunroof are opened to let air circulate through the cabin. You can also set a speed limit that will only be in effect when the car is started with the selected key, which could be helpful when lending 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 activate this feature, press and hold the lock button while pressing the unlock button. This will disable your smart key fob from transmitting or receiving any radio waves that could extend its battery's life by a significant amount. It is possible to reactivate the function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons again. Some smart keys also have anti-theft capabilities that protect them from being copied by thieves. For example, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to block unauthorised access to the vehicle. The computer in the car checks the code milliseconds after the smart key is introduced. BMW also has a similar system with its Display Key, which features an LCD touchscreen on the smart key for convenience and lets drivers lock, unlock, and start their vehicles without ever taking it from their pockets. If you're considering purchasing an automobile with a smart key, or you need the battery of your smart key fob replaced, call Pop-A-Lock for a quick and simple service. Our mobile locksmiths can change the battery of any smart key and also help to set it up so that your car recognizes it. Special Cases Smart keys aren't 100% theft-proof, but they aid in deterring thieves. Smart key fobs use rolling security codes to avoid hacking, and when placed in the ignition, the car's computer checks the code in milliseconds. Mercedes-Benz created this technology, which is currently used by luxury car brands. Another benefit is that the majority of smart key systems will operate even if the user has forgotten the key in the trunk or left it in the restaurant or if it is lost on hiking. Certain systems will also inform the driver if the battery is depleted. Certain brands also offer key covers specifically designed for smart keys. They keep the fob protected from damage.