Smart Car Key Fob Replacement: 11 Things That You're Failing To Do

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. They are computer-controlled and capable of performing various tasks including locking and unlocking the car, or starting it. They transmit an encrypted, rolling message. This helps protect them from thieves with advanced technology. Safety A smart key fob continually communicates with the vehicle using radiofrequency signals. It transmits a low power signal that, when pressed it, signals the vehicle 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 even if the key fob is stolen, it cannot be used to start the car. A new hack allows thieves to exploit this communication. Relay attacks are carried out with devices that transmit at the same rate as key fobs. How Stuff Works Electronics says that thieves could put one of these gadgets into pockets or in a hidden place to block the remote control of the lock. This is a risk that could become more common as more motorists switch to smart keys. A smart key fob is not just a security device, but it can also make your life easier by automatically taking care of the needs of your vehicle. A key fob linked to your smartphone, for example it can detect your presence and unlock the doors, so you do not have to hit the remote button. It can also sense when you're leaving and auto-lock the vehicle, so you don't have to fret about forgetting to lock the doors. Many smart key fobs include an indicator of the battery that tells you ahead of time when the battery is getting low. Most models allow you to replace the battery quickly and without the need for any special tools. Convenience Contrary to traditional keys made of metal Smart keys do NOT need to be physically inserted into the ignition slot to unlock or start a car. BMW Group explains that the driver only needs to bring the key within range of the car. In fact, some smart keys, like the Display Key, have an extremely small LCD color touchscreen that allows users to access features such as locking or unlocking as well as keyless start right from their key fob without having to connect to the car's Bluetooth system. A smart key can also save drivers time by automating the locking of their car doors when they leave. Consumer Reports says that this feature is present on a variety of automobiles. It also makes it easier for drivers to maneuver around tight spaces without accidentally crushing the door or something else. Furthermore, smart key systems generally do not send the same frequency signal repeatedly which could make them more vulnerable to relay attacks, according to Open Road Auto Group. As such, a stolen vehicle cannot be connected to a hotwire if equipped with a smart-key because the encrypted signal that the key fob transmits is unique to each car. This makes it extremely difficult for thieves to steal the car. Security Some of the latest electronic features found in the latest automobiles can be found in the key fob. These gadgets are capable of much more than simply locking and unlocking doors, or making chirping noises to help motorists locate their car in parking areas. However there are some who are unaware of the full capabilities. Certain smart keys, for instance, will activate the automatic windows and sunroofs on a vehicle when the key is pressed. A auto editor for CR once went out to her Honda Accord only to find all the windows shut and the sunroofs open. She was thankful for her Smart Key that automatically locked the car. According to How Stuff Works, some smart keys utilize computer-encrypted signals to prevent car thieves from stealing. smart car key programmer prevents hotwiring, which is when thieves steal the vehicle's engine control unit (ECM) which is usually located on the front of the engine block. The ECM is responsible for many important functions like engine power, transmission control and many more. Smart keys also come with anti-theft codes as well as a unique ID security code assigned to each key. This could disable ignition when the wrong key is used. The security ID is a digit that is transmitted by the ECM from the key to the ignition, and then verified by a sensor in the car. Maintenance Smart car key fobs can do much more than unlock the door. It can start your engine and also activate the brakes and suspension remotely. It also provides details about your vehicle, like the level of fuel and the temperature of your oil. A smart car key fob like every other electronic device requires regular maintenance in order to work efficiently. Most modern key fobs feature indicators for the battery that alert the driver when the battery is low. It's easy to replace the battery and you don't require any special tools. In certain instances however, a smart key may stop functioning entirely. If you suspect that this is the case attempt to reset the smart key by leaving the vehicle and then returning to it. This will allow the car to detect that the key fob remains in the vehicle and allow it to be used again. If you can't get your fob to work, contact a locksmith to assist. They can reprogram the fob in order that it can be recognised by the car and you can make use of all of its features. This is usually cheaper than purchasing a new key and could save you money over time. In some instances, a locksmith can even fix a fob that is already in use so that it can be used to make a new key. This could save you money in the end.