What Can a Smart Car Key Fob Do For You?

Mercedes introduced the first fobs in 1998. They are also known as smart keys, keyless entry, or keyless entry fobs. The fobs that are computer controlled are capable of performing a variety of functions like locking and unlocking your Spare Car Keys or the car's start-up.

They operate by broadcasting an encrypted stream. This protects them from thieves who are tech-savvy.

Safety

A smart key fob continuously communicates with a vehicle by radiofrequency waves. It transmits a low power signal that, upon pressing it, signals the vehicle to open doors and begin the engine. The car is programmed to recognize the unique encrypted code of a particular key fob. This means that if the keyfob is stolen, the car can't be started.

But a new type of hacking can let thieves exploit this communication. Relay attacks utilize devices that transmit on the exact frequency as the key fob. How Stuff Works Electronics says that a burglar could slip one of these devices into a pocket or hidden spot to stop the remote lock command. This is a problem that is likely to become more prevalent, as more drivers switch over to smart key copy keys.

Apart from these security options, smart key fobs can make life easier by automatically adjusting to your vehicle's needs. A key fob that connects to your smartphone, for instance can detect your presence and allow you to unlock the doors, so you do not have to hit a remote button. It can also tell when you're leaving and automatically lock the car, so you don't need to worry about forgetting to lock the doors. Many replacement smart key key fobs have a battery indicator which warns you when the battery is low. In addition, replacing the battery on most models is a quick, easy procedure that doesn't require any special tools.

Convenience

smart car keys replacement keys are not required to be physically inserted into an ignition slot to open or start the car. Instead, the user must have it on them and be able to bring it within range of the vehicle, as explained by the BMW Group. In reality, some smart keys, including the Display Key, have an extremely small LCD touchscreen in color that allows users to access features such as locking or unlocking as well as keyless start directly from their keys without needing 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. This feature is available in a number of vehicles, as per Consumer Reports, and can help get into tight parking spaces without accidentally squeezing something or someone else.

Open Road Auto Group explains that smart key systems do not transmit the same frequency signal in a series of in order to make them more susceptible to relay attacks. As such, a stolen vehicle cannot be wired hot if it's equipped with a smart key since the encrypted signal that the key fob transmits is unique to each car. This makes it extremely difficult for thieves to steal a car.

Security

A few of the most advanced electronic features in today's newer automobiles are contained in the key fob. These gadgets do much more than just lock and unlock doors or emit chirping sounds to assist drivers in finding their vehicle in a parking lot However, some drivers may not be aware of everything the things these smart key fobs are able to do.

For instance, some smart keys for cars keys can turn on windows that automatically open and sunroof if they are pressed. A auto editor for CR once went out to her Honda Accord only to find all the windows closed and the sunroofs open. She was thankful for her Smart Key that automatically locked the car.

Some smart keys use computer-encrypted signals to stop car thieves, according to How Stuff Works. This technology can prevent hotwiring in which thieves steal a vehicle's engine controller module (ECM), usually located at the front of the engine. The ECM is responsible for many important functions like engine power, transmission control, and many more.

Other technologies in smart keys include anti-theft code and a unique security ID that is assigned to each key, which could disable the ignition in the event that it's not the right one. The security ID is a special code that's transmitted from the ECM to the key after it's placed in the ignition and checked by a sensor inside the car.

Maintenance

A smart car key fob can do much more than unlock your door. It can start your engine and activate the suspension and brakes remotely. It also provides information about your vehicle, like the level of fuel and temperature of the oil.

Like any piece of electronic equipment, a smart car key fob needs regular maintenance to operate properly. Key fobs that are modern have indicators for batteries that inform the driver when the battery is running low. It is simple to replace the battery, and you don't need special tools.

In some cases the smart key may cease to function completely. If you suspect this is the case, attempt to reset it by taking the car out and then returning inside. This will allow the car to recognize that the key fob is still in the vehicle and will allow it to function again.

Contact a locksmith if you have trouble getting your key fob to function. They can reprogram the fob to ensure that it can be recognized by the car again and you are able to use all of its features. This is usually cheaper than purchasing a new fob and can save you money over the course of time. In some cases locksmiths can modify an existing fob in order to be used to create a new key. This can save you more money in the end.