The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Smart Car Key Fob Replacement
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. These computer-controlled key fobs can perform many tasks, including locking and unlocking cars as well as starting it.
They work by broadcasting a rolling encrypted signal. This makes them more receptive to hackers with a technological edge.
Safety
A smart key fob constantly communicates with vehicles by radiofrequency waves. It transmits a low-power message that, when pressed, tells the car to unlock doors and start its engine. The car is programmed to recognize the unique encryption code of a specific key fob. This means that even when the key fob is stolen, it won't be used to start the car.
A new hack allows thieves to take advantage of this communication. Relay attacks utilize devices which transmit on the same frequency as the key fob. A thief can place one of these devices in a pocket or hidden location to thwart the lock command from a distance, says How Stuff Works Electronics. This issue will become more frequent as more people switch to smart keys.
In smart car key reprogramming to these security features, a smart key fob can simplify your life by automatically adjusting to the needs of your vehicle. For example an electronic key fob connected to your smartphone can detect your proximity and unlock the doors, so you don't have to press a button on the remote. It also can detect when you're leaving the car and auto-lock the car, meaning you don't need to worry about not locking the doors. A lot of smart key fobs come with a battery indicator that alerts you when the battery is running low. The majority of models let you replace the battery quickly and easily, without the need for any special tools.
Convenience
As opposed to a traditional metal key, smart keys do not require physically inserting into an ignition slot in order to unlock or start a car. BMW Group explains that the driver simply needs to bring the key within the range of the car. Some smart keys, including the Display Key, have tiny LCD touchscreen that allows drivers access to features such as locking, unlocking and keyless start directly from their key fob without the need to connect to the Bluetooth system of the car.
A smart key can help drivers save time by automating the locking of their doors when they leave. This feature is offered in many automobiles, according to Consumer Reports, and can help move into parking spots that are tight without causing injury to something or anyone.
Open Road Auto Group explains that smart key systems do not transmit the same frequency signal in a series of which can make them more susceptible to relay attacks. In this way a stolen vehicle can't be hotwired even 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 difficult for thieves steal a car.
Security
Modern cars come with more high-tech electronic features than ever before, and some of those are located in the key fob. These devices do much more than unlock and lock doors, or make chirping sounds that aid drivers in finding their car in a parking space, but some owners may not be aware of everything that these smart key fobs can accomplish.
Certain keys that are smart, for instance, can trigger the automatic windows and sunroof of an automobile when you press. A CR auto editor once walked out to her Honda Accord only to find all the windows shut and the sunroof up. She was thankful for her Smart Key that automatically locked the car.
According to How Stuff Works, some smart keys employ computer-encrypted signals to protect against car thieves. This technology stops hotwiring in which thieves steal the engine controller module (ECM) typically located in front of the engine. The ECM is responsible for many important functions, including engine power, transmission control, and more.
Smart keys also include anti-theft code and a unique security code for ID assigned to each key. This could stop the ignition when the wrong key is used. The security ID is a unique code that is transmitted from the ECM to the key after it's placed in the ignition, and is confirmed by a sensor in the car.
Maintenance
Smart car key fobs can do more than unlock the door. It can start your engine, and also activate the brakes and suspension remotely. It can also provide details about your vehicle, such as the level of your fuel and the temperature of your oil.
A smart car key fob, just like any other electronic device requires regular maintenance to function correctly. Most modern key fobs feature indicators for batteries that notify the driver when the battery is running low. It's easy to replace the battery, and you don't require special tools.
In certain instances the smart key may cease to function completely. If you suspect that's the case, attempt to reset it by getting out of the car and then re-entering it. This will allow the car to detect that the key fob is in the vehicle and let it to be used again.
If you can't get your fob to work call a locksmith help. They can reprogram it so that the car can recognize it once more and allows you to utilize all of its functions. This is usually cheaper than buying a new fob and could save you money over time. In some instances locksmiths are able to fix an existing fob in order to be used to make a new key. This can help you save more money in the long run.