What You Should Know About Smart Keys

Smart keys - also referred to digital keys or information keys allow drivers to access their vehicles without having to look for a keyhole. Certain vehicles include them as standard features, while others offer them as an upgrade option.

The technology is much more advanced than the traditional key fob, as well. Certain systems come with emergency starting capabilities that let you open the car and start the engine without the use of a key fob (or even an old-fashioned one). The best systems also include indicators for the battery that warn you when the battery is low.

Security

Smart keys are more efficient than traditional key fobs and also come with additional security and safety features. They connect to the computer system in your car using radio-frequency identification (RFID). When the key is within the range of the antenna it is able to unlock the doors and start the car without having to use your mobile or press the button.

It may appear to be an excellent feature. However, car smart Key replacement criminals are able to access this system to unlock your doors or start the engine. Certain manufacturers employ a technique known as "rolling codes" that prevent this from occurring. This code is projected by the key onto the starter and then checked by the computer of the car prior to it starting. This helps prevent thieves from making multiple copies of keys.

Another method to keep your car safe is to ensure that you don't put your mobile phone and key in the same pocket. Putting the two devices too close to each other could block signals, thus preventing them from sending signals properly.

The KeySmart Pro has a built in Tile that helps you locate your phone. When you place the Smart Key next to your iPhone with the application installed by pressing the activation button, it will cause the Tile to play a brief tune and flash an LED. This is a lifesaver when you've lost your phone or it's in silent mode.

Convenience

Smart keys can be used to store and retrieve personal settings, including seat, mirror and steering wheel positions. Some smart keys, like BMW's Comfort Access system, allow you to start the car without having to touch the ignition button.

Modern smart keys communicate with car's antennas through radio waves. They transmit a unique encrypted message that is read and acted upon by the computer. The signals can be reprogrammed to perform various functions, such as opening and closing the trunk, or engaging the lock of a child.

This technology isn't foolproof, however. Hackers with technical expertise can get the unique identification number of a smartkey by picking up its frequency transmission. Fortunately for us, the industry has been working to improve the security of the system.

A great feature is the ability to remotely lock and unlock your vehicle by tapping the screen of your smartphone. This can help you save time when loading up your kids or cargo and can be especially helpful if you are an adult with teenagers who are just learning to drive.

One of the best aspects of a smart car key replacement cost key is its sleek and compact design. It is much more convenient to carry than other key organizers that are heavy and take up more space than needed. The KeySmart is also quiet and comfortable to carry, and eliminates the annoying jingle that can drive you crazy.

Battery Life

Typically, smart keys last only half as long as regular fobs that have key blades (two to three years versus four to six). The smart keys must communicate with the car at a much higher rate and more frequently in order to unlock and start the car. Smart keys also drain faster when they are placed close to electronic devices such as computers, phones and screens that generate electromagnetic fields.

Fortunately, most smart keys come with battery backup functions. According to Open Road Auto Group, they have an emergency blade that functions as an ordinary key to open the driver's door in the event that the smart key fob's batteries fail. Most have a slot where the traditional key can be placed to start the engine in the event that the smart key fob isn't working or is dead.

A "power saving mode" is a different smart key backup. If you forget your smart key while driving, your vehicle will continue to run regardless of whether it's not running. To do this, place the smart key flat on the steering column and press the ignition button. If you've done it correctly, your system should notify the driver that the key is low but still operational.

Cost

While many car owners are converting to smart keys for greater convenience and added security, it's important to know that these features aren't cheap. If you lose a smart key, it can cost a fortune to replace it and re-programme your car.

Smart keys are similar to regular keys, but have a microchip that can unlock, lock, or start a vehicle without the need for a physical key. The chip transmits a unique code the vehicle smart key's system, which recognizes it and confirms it prior beginning the engine.

This technology has been in use for some time however it's not perfect. There have been many instances of thieves taking vehicles using this method. There are ways to prevent this from occurring. One method to avoid this is by using the smart key which has rolling security codes. The code changes every time the key is used.

A key fob that features a display screen can be extremely expensive. BMW's Display Key is an example of this kind of smart key. Its LCD color screen performs all the functions of a standard key fob like locking the door, unlocking it, and keyless start. However, it can also transmit commands to the vehicle from an iPhone. This makes it easier to operate the vehicle and keep the track of charging locations and battery levels. It even allows the car to park itself. This is a great feature if you have limited mobility or disabilities.