Smart Car Key Fob Replacement: 11 Things You're Forgetting To Do
What Can a Smart Car Key Fob Do For You? Mercedes introduced the first fobs in 1998. They are also known as smart keys, keyless entry or keyless entry fobs. They are computer-controlled and capable of carrying out a variety of tasks like locking and unlocking your car or getting it started. They function by sending an encrypted, rolling message. This makes them more secure to hackers with a technological edge. Safety A smart key fob communicates with a vehicle by radiofrequency waves. It transmits a low-power signal that, when pressed will instruct the car to open doors and start the engine. The car recognizes the encrypted code from a specific key fob. This means that if a key fob is stolen, the car can't start. But a new type of hacking can allow thieves to exploit that 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 devices into a pocket or hidden spot to stop the remote control of the lock. It's a concern that could become more commonplace as more people switch to smart keys. Apart from these security features, smart key fobs can make life easier by automatically tending to your vehicle's needs. A key fob that connects to your smartphone, for example can sense your presence and allow you to unlock the doors so that you do not have to hit a remote button. It can also recognize that you are leaving the vehicle and automatically secure it, so you won't forget to lock the doors. A lot of smart key fobs come with a battery indicator which warns you when the battery is depleted. The replacement of the battery in most models is a quick, easy procedure that does not require any special tools. Convenience Smart keys do not need to be physically inserted in an ignition slot to unlock or start the car. BMW Group explains that the driver just needs to bring the key within range of the car. In fact, some smart keys, including the Display Key, come with small LCD touchscreen in color that allows users to access features like locking or unlocking as well as keyless start right from their key fob without needing to connect with the car's Bluetooth system. A smart key could also save drivers time by automating the closing of their car doors when they leave. This feature is present in a wide range of vehicles, as per Consumer Reports, and can help maneuver into tight parking spots without accidentally squeezing something or someone. Additionally, smart key systems generally do not transmit the same frequency signal over and over in order to make them more vulnerable to relay attacks, explains Open Road Auto Group. As such it is impossible for a stolen car to be wired hot if it's equipped with a smart key because the encrypted signal that the key fob transmits is unique to each vehicle. This technology makes it extremely difficult for thieves to steal a car. Security Some of the top-of-the-line electronic features found in the latest automobiles can be found in the key fob. These gadgets do much more than unlock and lock doors, or make chirping sounds that assist motorists in finding their car in a parking space however, some owners might not be aware of everything that these key fobs can accomplish. smart forfour key programming , such as instance, will activate the auto windows and sunroofs of the vehicle when they are the key is pressed. A auto editor from CR once walked out to her Honda Accord only to find all the windows down and sunroof opened. She was thankful for her Smart Key that automatically locked the car. According to How Stuff Works, some smart keys make use of computer-encrypted signals to deter car thieves. This technology blocks hotwiring, which thieves steal the engine controller module (ECM) which is typically located in front of the engine. The ECM regulates a variety of vital functions, including engine power and transmission control. Smart keys also include anti-theft codes as well as a unique ID security code assigned to each key. This will disable the ignition if the wrong key is used. The security ID is a number that is transmitted by the ECM from the key to the ignition, followed by verification by a sensor in the car. Maintenance Smart car key fobs can do more than simply unlock the door. It can start your engine and activate suspension and brakes remotely. It also can provide information about your vehicle, like the level of fuel and oil temperature. Like all electronic equipment smart car key fob needs regular maintenance in order to function correctly. Most modern key fobs feature indicators for batteries that notify the driver when the battery is low. Replacing the battery is a straightforward process, and no specialized tools are required. In certain instances the smart key may stop working completely. If you suspect this is the problem try resetting the smart key after leaving the vehicle and returning inside. This will allow the car to recognize that the key fob is in the vehicle and will allow it to be used again. Contact a locksmith if are not able to get your key fob to work. They can reprogram it to ensure that your car recognizes it and allows you to use all of its features. This is usually cheaper than buying a brand new fob and can save you money over the course of time. In some cases, a locksmith can repair an existing key fob in order to be able to use it to purchase a new one. This can save you more money in the long run.