What Can a Smart Car Key Fob Do For You?

Known as fobs or keyless entry or smart keys, they were first introduced by Mercedes in 1998. Key fobs that are controlled by computers accomplish many things, including locking and unlocking a vehicle as well as starting it.

They transmit an encrypted, rolling signal. This helps protect them from tech-savvy thieves.

Safety

A smart key fob that communicates continuously with a vehicle via radiofrequency waves. It transmits a low-power signal that, when pressed, tells the car to unlock doors and start the engine. The car recognizes the unique encrypted code that is generated by a specific key fob. This means that even when the key fob is stolen, it won't be used to begin the car.

However, a new kind of hacking technique can allow thieves to exploit that communication. Relay attacks are carried out with devices that transmit at the same frequency as key fobs. A burglar can put one of these devices in a purse or hiding area to disable the lock command from a distance. How Stuff Works Electronics. This is a problem that could become more frequent as more people change to smart keys.

Apart from these security options, a smart key fob can simplify your life by automatically adjusting to the needs of your vehicle. A key fob linked to your smartphone, for instance it can detect your presence and then unlock the doors, meaning you do not have to hit the remote button. It also can detect that you are leaving the car and then automatically secure it, so you aren't tempted to forget to lock the doors. A lot of smart key fobs have an indicator for the battery that alerts you well in advance when the battery is getting low. Most models allow you to replace the battery quickly and easily without the need for any special tools.

Convenience

Smart keys do not need to be physically inserted in an ignition slot to unlock or start the car. Rather, the driver simply must have it in their possession and be able to bring it within range of the vehicle, as explained by the BMW Group. In fact, some smart keys, including the Display Key, have small LCD touchscreen with color that allows users to access features like locking or unlocking as well as keyless start right from their key fob, without needing to connect with the car's Bluetooth system.

Smart keys can also save drivers time by automating the locking of their doors after they leave. 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 spaces without accidentally crushing the door or something else.

Open Road Auto Group explains that smart key systems don't transmit the same frequency signal repeatedly in order to make them more vulnerable to relay attacks. In this way a stolen vehicle can't be hotwired even if it's equipped with a smart-key because the encrypted signal that the key fob transmits is unique to each vehicle. This makes it extremely difficult for thieves to steal a car.

Security

The latest cars are equipped with more advanced electronic features than ever before, and a few of them are housed in the key fob. These gadgets do much more than lock and unlock doors, or make chirping sounds to assist drivers in finding their vehicle smart key (Thekeylab Co post to a company blog) in a parking lot However, some owners may not be aware of all that these key fobs can accomplish.

Certain keys, such as instance, will activate the automatic windows and sunroofs on the vehicle when they are the key is pressed. A auto editor for CR once went out to her Honda Accord only to find all the windows closed and sunroof open. She was thankful for her Smart Key that automatically locked the car.

Some smart keys use computer-encrypted signals to thwart car thieves, according to How Stuff Works. This technology prevents hotwiring, which is when thieves steal the engine control module (ECM) which is usually located in the front of the engine block. The ECM regulates a variety of vital functions, including transmission control and engine power.

Smart keys also have anti-theft codes and a unique security code for ID assigned to each key. This will disable the ignition if the wrong key is used. The security ID is a unique code that is sent from the ECM to the key once it's put into the ignition and then verified by a sensor inside the car.

Maintenance

Smart car key fobs can do more than unlock the door. It can start your engine and also activate the suspension and brakes remotely. It also provides information about your car, like the level of fuel and oil temperatures.

A smart car key fob, as any other electronic device requires regular maintenance in order to work correctly. Key fobs that are modern have indicators for batteries that inform the driver when the battery is running low. It's easy to replace the battery, and you don't need any special tools.

In certain instances the smart key could cease to function completely. If you suspect this is the case, attempt to reset it by leaving the vehicle and then returning inside. This will allow the car to recognize that the fob is present and allow it to get back to its normal function.

Contact a locksmith if you cannot get your key fob to function. They can reprogram the fob in order that it can be recognized by the car again and you are able to use all of its features. This is typically cheaper than buying a brand new fob and could save you money over the course of time. In some instances, Vehicle Smart Key a locksmith can even repair an existing fob to allow it to be used to make new keys. This could save you money in the end.