What Can a Smart Car Key Fob Do For You?

Also known as fobs, keyless entry or smart keys, they were first introduced by Mercedes in 1998. The fobs that are computer controlled are capable of performing many tasks like locking and unlocking the vehicle or getting it started.

They function by sending an encrypted, rolling message. This helps protect them from hackers with a technological edge.

Safety

A smart key fob is constantly communicating with a vehicle through radiofrequency waves. It transmits a low-power message that, when pressed instructs the car to open doors and start the engine. The car recognizes the encrypted code from a particular key fob. This means that if a key fob is stolen, the car will not be started.

A new vulnerability allows thieves to exploit this type of communication. Relay attacks are carried out with 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 in pockets or in a hidden place to stop the key fob's lock command remotely. This is a problem that is likely to become more prevalent as more and more drivers adopt smart keys.

Apart from these security options, an intelligent key fob could make life easier by automatically tending to your vehicle's needs. A key fob connected to your smartphone, for example can detect your presence and unlock the doors so that you do not have to hit a remote button. It can also recognize that you are leaving the car and automatically lock it, so that you will not forget to lock the doors. Many smart key fobs feature a battery indicator that alerts you when the battery is running low. Most models allow you to replace the battery quickly and easily without 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 simply needs to bring the key within the range of the car. Some smart keys, like the Display Key, have an incredibly small LCD touchscreen that allows users to access features such as locking, unlocking and keyless start directly from their key fob, without needing to connect to the Bluetooth system of the car.

Smart keys can also save drivers time by automating the closing of their car doors when they leave. This feature is available in a wide range of vehicles, according to Consumer Reports, and can assist in allowing drivers to maneuver into tight parking spots without accidentally squeezing something or someone else.

Additionally, smart key systems do not typically transmit the same frequency signal over and over, as this could make them more vulnerable to relay attacks, according to Open Road Auto Group. smart car Key Fob replacement keys are distinct to each vehicle, so a stolen car cannot be connected to a hotwire. This makes it very difficult for thieves to steal the car.

Security

A few of the most advanced electronic features found in the latest automobiles are included in the key fob. These gadgets are capable of much more than locking and unlocking doors or making chirping noises to help motorists locate their car in parking areas. However many owners are unaware of the full capabilities.

For instance, some smart keys can trigger windows that are automatically opened and sunroof once they are pressed. One CR auto editor walked into her Honda Accord to find the windows shut and the sunroof completely open. She was thankful for her smart key market Key that automatically locked the car.

According to How Stuff Works, some smart keys employ computer-encrypted signals to deter car thieves. This technology stops hotwiring in which thieves steal the 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 other functions.

Smart keys also include anti-theft codes as well as a unique security code for ID assigned to each key. This can disable the ignition when the wrong key is used. The security ID is a specific code that is sent from the ECM to the key once it's put into the ignition. It is then checked by a sensor inside the car.

Maintenance

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

Like all electronic equipment smart car key fob needs regular maintenance to ensure it functions properly. Modern key fobs come with indicators for the batteries to inform the driver when it's time to replace the battery. It's simple to replace the battery and you don't need any special tools.

In certain instances the smart key might cease to function completely. If you suspect that this is the issue Try to reset the smart key by removing the vehicle and coming back inside. This will let the car recognize that the fob is in place and allow it to get back to its normal function.

If you're not able to get your fob to function call a locksmith help. They can reprogram it so that the car can recognize it and allows you to utilize all of its features. It's generally cheaper to do this instead of buying a new key fob and it could save you money in the end. In some cases, a locksmith can even fix a fob that is already in use so that it can be used to make a new smart car key key. This can save you more money in the end.