What Can a Smart Car Key Fob Do For You?

Mercedes introduced the first fobs in 1998. They are also referred to as smart keys, keyless entry or keyless entry fobs. These fobs controlled by computers are capable of performing a variety of functions including locking and unlocking the car, or beginning it.

They transmit an encrypted stream. They are protected from thieves with advanced technology.

Safety

A smart key fob is constantly communicating with a vehicle via radiofrequency waves. It sends out a low-power signal that, when pressed instructs the car to open doors and start the engine. The car is programmed to recognize the unique encrypted code of a particular key fob. This means that in the event that the keyfob is stolen, the car can't be started.

But a brand new type of hacking technique can allow thieves to exploit that communication. Relay attacks are based on devices that transmit at the same frequency as the key fob. How Stuff Works Electronics says that a thief could place one of these devices into an unnoticed pocket or a hidden location to stop the remote control of the lock. This is a risk which could become more frequent as more people are switching to smart car key not working keys.

Apart from these security options, a smart key fob can simplify your life by automatically taking care of the needs of your vehicle. A key fob that connects to your smartphone, for example, can detect your presence and then unlock the doors, so you don't have to press a remote button. It can also sense when you're leaving the car and auto-lock the vehicle, so you don't have to fret about forgetting to lock the doors. A majority of smart key fobs have an indicator for batteries that tells 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 keys are not required to be inserted physically into an ignition slot to unlock or start the vehicle. BMW Group explains that the driver just needs to bring the key within the range of the car smart key. Some smart keys, like the Display Key, feature tiny LCD touchscreen that allows drivers access to features like locking, unlocking and keyless starting directly from their key fob, without the need to connect the Bluetooth system in the car.

Another way a smart key could help save time for drivers is by automatizing the process of locking their doors when they leave it. This feature is available in many automobiles, according to Consumer Reports, and can also help maneuver into tight parking spots without accidentally squeezing something anyone.

Open Road Auto Group explains that smart key systems do not transmit the same frequency signal over and over, as this can make them more susceptible to relay attacks. Smart keys are specific to each vehicle therefore a stolen vehicle cannot be hotwired. This makes it extremely difficult for thieves to steal a vehicle.

Security

Modern cars come with the most advanced electronic features ever before, and a few of them are contained inside the key fob. These devices can do more than simply unlock and lock doors, or make chirping noises to aid drivers in finding their car in a parking lot However, some owners may not be aware of everything that smart key fobs can accomplish.

For instance, certain smart keys can activate windows that automatically open and sunroof if they are hit. A auto editor from CR once walked out to her Honda Accord only to find all the windows closed and the sunroofs open. She was grateful for her replacement smart key Key that automatically locked the car.

According to How Stuff Works, some smart keys make use of computer-encrypted signals to protect against car thieves. This technology can prevent hotwiring in which thieves steal a vehicle's engine controller module (ECM) which is usually located at the front of the engine. The ECM controls a variety of important functions, including engine power and transmission control.

Smart keys also have anti-theft codes and a unique security code for ID assigned to each key. This could disable the ignition when the wrong key is used. The security ID is a unique code that is transmitted by the ECM from the key to the ignition, followed by verification by a sensor in the car.

Maintenance

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

Like all electronic equipment smart car key fob needs regular maintenance to function correctly. Modern key fobs include indicators for the battery that inform the driver when it is time to replace the battery. Replacing the battery is an easy procedure, and no specialist tools are required.

In some instances the smart forfour key key can stop working completely. If you suspect that this is the case, attempt to reset it by getting out of the vehicle and returning to the vehicle. This will allow the car to recognize that the key fob is still inside the vehicle, and allow it to be used again.

Contact a locksmith if you have trouble getting your key fob to function. They can reprogram the fob to ensure that it is recognized by the car and you can make use of all of its features. It's generally more economical to do this than buying an entirely new key fob and it can save you money in the end. In some cases, a locksmith can even fix a fob that is already in use in order to be used to make a new key. This can save you more money in the end.