Watch Out: How Smart Car Key Fob Replacement Is Taking Over The World And What Can We Do About It
What Can a Smart Car Key Fob Do For You?
Known as fobs, keyless entry or smart keys, they were first introduced by Mercedes in 1998. These key fobs controlled by computers can accomplish a variety of tasks, such as locking and unlocking a car and even starting it.
They work by broadcasting a rolling encrypted signal. This keeps them safer from tech-savvy thieves.
Safety
A smart key fob communicates constantly with a vehicle via radiofrequency waves. It sends a low-power signal that, when pressed tells the car to unlock doors and begin its engine. The car recognizes the encrypted code of a particular key fob. This means that in the event that the keyfob is stolen, the car cannot start.
smart car key programming allows thieves to take advantage of this communication. Relay attacks are carried out with devices that transmit at the same frequency as the key fob. A burglar can put one of these devices in a pocket or hiding spot to jam the lock command from a distance, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. This is a problem that may become more common as more and more drivers change to smart keys.
Apart from these security options, the smart key fob can make life easier by automatically attending to your vehicle's needs. A key fob linked to your smartphone, for example can sense your presence and allow you to unlock the doors so you don't have to press the remote button. It can also recognize that you're leaving the car and close it, so you won't forget to lock the doors. Many smart key fobs feature an indicator for the battery that warns you when the battery is not fully charged. Most models allow you to replace the battery quickly and easily without any special tools.
Convenience
Contrary to traditional keys made of metal Smart keys do not require physically inserting into an ignition slot to unlock or start the car. Instead, the user must have it in their possession and be able to bring it within range of the vehicle, as described by the BMW Group. In fact, some smart keys, such as the Display Key, feature an extremely small LCD color touchscreen that allows users to access features such as locking and unlocking, as well as keyless start directly from their keys without having to connect to the car's Bluetooth system.
Another way smart keys can save drivers time is by automating the process of locking their doors when they leave it. Consumer Reports says that this feature is available on a wide range of vehicles. It also makes it easier for drivers to maneuver around tight spots without accidentally pushing someone or something.
Furthermore, smart key systems typically do not transmit the same frequency signal repeatedly in order to make them more vulnerable to relay attacks, says Open Road Auto Group. Smart keys are distinct to each vehicle, so a stolen vehicle can't be connected to a hotwire. This technology makes it extremely difficult for thieves to steal the car.
Security
Some of the top-of-the-line electronic features that are present in modern automobiles are included in the key fob. These devices can do much more than locking and unlocking doors or making chirping sounds to help drivers locate their vehicle in parking areas. However many owners are unaware of the full capabilities.
For example, some smart keys can trigger windows that are automatically opened and sunroof once they are hit. A Auto editor of CR once walked out to her Honda Accord only to find all the windows shut and the sunroofs open. She was grateful for her Smart Key that automatically locked the car.
Certain smart keys utilize computer-encrypted signals to deter car thieves According to How Stuff Works. This technology blocks hotwiring, which thieves steal a vehicle's engine controller module (ECM) typically located at the front of the engine. The ECM controls a variety of vital functions, such as engine power and transmission control.
Other technologies in smart keys include anti-theft codes and a security ID unique to each key. This could disable the ignition in the event that it's not the correct one. The security ID is a code that is transmitted from the ECM to the key after it's placed in the ignition and confirmed by a device inside the car.
Maintenance
Smart car key fobs can do much more than unlock the door. It can start your engine and operate the brakes and suspension remotely. It also gives you information about your vehicle, such as fuel level and temperature of the oil.
Like all electronic equipment smart car key fob requires regular maintenance to ensure it functions effectively. Modern key fobs have battery indicators to alert the driver when it is time to replace the battery. It's simple to replace the battery, and you don't require any special tools.
In certain instances the smart key might cease to function completely. If you suspect that this is the problem attempt to reset the smart key by exiting the vehicle and then returning to it. This will allow the car to know that the key fob remains in the vehicle and will allow it to be used again.
Contact a locksmith if cannot get the key fob to work. They can reprogram the fob in order that it can be recognised by the car and you are able to use all of its features. This is usually less expensive than purchasing a new key and could save you money over the course of time. In some instances the locksmith may repair an existing fob so that it can be used to create new keys. This could save you money in the end.