Why Smart Car Key Programming Is More Dangerous Than You Realized

Vehicle Smart Key Technology

Vehicle smart key technology allows the driver to unlock and start the car by pressing the door handle or putting the key in the pocket. It also allows for a variety of other adjustments, including seat position the internal temperature setting and mirror positioning.

However, this could lead to security concerns.

Security

Smart keys are key fobs that are computerized that communicate with vehicles through an embedded antenna. It can unlock doors and start the motor. As opposed to traditional keys, which emit the identical frequency signal each time they are activated, smart keys transmit encrypted signals that only match the specific vehicle they belong to. This makes it more difficult for thieves who are tech-savvy to fake or intercept the signal and use the key to steal your car.

For instance, Mercedes' system -- called Keyless Go -- has an internal transponder that identifies the key of the driver. 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 certain smart keys- like those from BMW include individual user settings that allow the driver to adjust the mirrors, seat and steering wheel position and audio preferences at the click of one button. They also have the backup lock, which prevents the vehicle from starting if the key is not in the ignition.

This technology assists drivers from accidentally locking their cars, particularly when searching through a purse or backpack to find keys in a parking space packed with people or on an area with high crime rates. Many systems will also alert drivers when the battery of their key is not fully charged, though this feature may differ from manufacturer to the manufacturer.

Convenience

The smart key is perfect for those who are in a hurry to get to their destination. You can unlock, lock and start your car by pressing a button on the door handle or trunk release. Key fobs can also connect to your phone to track charging, location and other information about the vehicle, according to Popular Mechanics.

You shouldn't lock your keys inside the car. The key fob is connected to an antenna in the vehicle to determine if it is within range. If it's not, the engine will not start. This will deter thieves who could steal your vehicle to sell its parts.

BMW reports that the smart key makes use of rolling codes as well to ward off hacking and cloning. A computer within the vehicle detects the code and verifies it prior to starting the engine. Most systems come with a mechanical back-up in the form a hidden key blade.

How Stuff Works Electronics notes that modern smart keys can also detect the key used and adjust the car settings accordingly. If you turn on the vehicle while holding the key in your hands, for example windows and the sunroof will open to ventilate the interior. You can also set the speed limit to only be in effect when the car is started with the selected key, which can be useful when loaning your car to a new driver.

Battery Life

If you're looking for a way to get more mileage out of your vehicle's smart car key programmer 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 do this, hold the lock button until you release it and press the unlock button.

This will disable your smart key fob's smart chip from sending or receiving radio waves and will increase the battery's life by a significant amount. You can always restart the function by pressing both the lock and unlock buttons again.

Certain replacement smart key keys come with anti-theft features to prevent them from being stolen by thieves. Mercedes-Benz smart car key coding keys use rolling codes to block unauthorised access. When the smart 450 key programming key is put in the ignition, a computer within the car confirms the code in milliseconds before beginning the engine. BMW has a similar system with its Display Key, which comes with an LCD touchscreen on the smart key for convenience, and enables drivers to lock, unlock, and start their cars without ever removing the key from their pockets.

Call Pop-A-Lock if you need to replace the battery in your smart key fob if you are thinking of purchasing a vehicle with a smart-key. Our mobile locksmiths can change the battery on any smart key and help you set it up so that your car recognizes it.

Special Cases

Smart keys aren't 100% theft-proof, but they assist in preventing thieves. Smart keys utilize rolling security codes to prevent hackers, and when put in the ignition, the car's computer checks the code in milliseconds. This technology was developed by Mercedes-Benz and is currently used by a variety of premium car brands.

A smart key system will continue to function even if you lose the key in your trunk or leave it in an establishment. Certain systems will notify the driver when the battery is not fully charged. Some brands offer key covers specifically designed for smart keys. They keep the fob protected from damage.