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Vehicle Smart Key Technology The technology of smart keys in vehicles enables drivers to unlock and start their car by simply rubbing the door handle, or placing the key into the pocket. It also enables a range of other adjustments, like seating positions and temperature settings inside the car, mirror position and stereo presets. This could also create security concerns. Security Smart keys are advanced key fobs with computers that communicate with vehicles via one of the car's embedded antennas to open the doors and start the engine. Smart keys, unlike traditional keys, which emit the same frequency each time they're used, transmit encrypted signals that are compatible with the particular car to which they belong. This makes it more difficult for tech-savvy criminals to detect or spoof the signal, and use your key to steal your vehicle. For instance, Mercedes' system -known as Keyless Go — has an internal transponder, which identifies the driver's key. The Smart Key automatically unlocks and opens the doors and the tailgate when it is within 1.5 meters. It also begins the engine by pressing a button on its key. Furthermore some smart keys like those made by BMW come with individual user settings that let the driver adjust seat, mirrors and the position of the steering wheel as well as audio preferences at the touch of the button. They also have a backup lock, which prevents the vehicle from starting if the key is not in the ignition. This technology assists drivers from accidentally locking their vehicles, particularly when they are rummaging through their purses or backpack to locate keys in a parking lot packed with strangers or on a busy street with high crime rates. Some systems will also notify drivers when the battery of their key is low, but this feature may differ from manufacturer to the manufacturer. Convenience The smart key is ideal for those trying to get somewhere. You can lock, unlock and start your car by pressing the door handle or the trunk release. Popular Mechanics explains that the key fob can also be used to track charging or location as well as other information about your vehicle. A major benefit is that you aren't able to accidentally lock yourself out. The key fob communicates with an antenna inside the vehicle to determine whether it's in range. If not, the engine will not start. This will deter thieves from absconding with your vehicle and selling parts of it. The smart key uses rolling codes to deter hacking attempts and cloning, says BMW. A computer in the vehicle detects the code and confirms it prior to starting the engine. Most systems have a physical back-up in the form a hidden key blade. How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys also detect when the key is when it is in use and adjust the vehicle settings according to the situation. For instance, if you turn on the car while holding the key fob in the palm of your hand the windows and sunroof can be opened to ventilate the cabin. You can also set the speed limit which will only apply when the vehicle is started with the selected key, a feature that can be useful when loaning your car to a novice driver. Battery Life If you're looking for a way to get more mileage out of your vehicle's smart key, or just want to make sure it won't die during a trip to the grocery store, you can activate an auto manufacturer-specific feature called Power Saving Mode. To activate it, hold the lock button down and then press the unlock button. This will prevent your smart key fob from having to send or receive any radio waves. This will dramatically extend the life of your battery. You can always activate this function by pressing the unlock and lock buttons once more. Certain smart keys come with anti-theft capabilities that prevent them from being copied by thieves. For instance, Mercedes-Benz smart keys use rolling codes to stop unauthorized access to the vehicle. When a smart key is inserted into ignition, a computer within the car verifies the code in milliseconds, before even starting the engine. BMW has a similar system with its Display Key, which has a small LCD color touchscreen on the smart key for added convenience, and allows drivers to lock, unlock, and start their cars without ever removing the key from their pockets. If you're thinking of buying a new car that has a smart key, or require your smart key fob's battery changed, contact us at Pop-A Lock for a quick and efficient service. Our mobile locksmiths will change the battery of any smart key, and will help to set it so that your car recognizes it. Special Cases Although smart keys aren't secure against theft, they can help to discourage thieves. Smart key fobs use rolling security codes to prevent theft, and when placed in the ignition, the vehicle's computer can verify the code within milliseconds. This technology was invented by Mercedes-Benz and is now used by a variety of high-end car brands. Another benefit is that the majority of smart key systems will operate if the user forgot the key in the trunk or left it in the restaurant, or lost it during an excursion. Certain systems will also inform the driver if the battery is running low. Certain brands have key covers specifically designed for smart keys that keep the key safe from harm.