lierchord99

What Can a Smart Car Key Fob Do For You? Known as fobs or keyless entry or smart keys, they were first introduced by Mercedes in 1998. Key fobs that are controlled by computers accomplish many things, including locking and unlocking vehicles as well as launching it. They function by sending an encrypted message that is continuously transmitted. This makes them less vulnerable to hackers with a technological edge. Safety A smart key fob communicates with the vehicle via radiofrequency waves. G28CarKeys sends a low-power signal that, when pressed instructs the car to open doors and begin its engine. The car is programmed to recognize the unique encryption code of a specific key fob. This means that even in the event that the key fob gets stolen, it isn't used to begin the car. But a new type of hacking technique can allow thieves to exploit that communication. Relay attacks are carried out using devices that transmit at the same frequency as key fobs. How Stuff Works Electronics says that thieves could put one of these devices in a pocket or hidden spot to stop the remote lock command. It's a concern that could become more common as more drivers switch to smart keys. A smart key fob is not only a security feature but it can make your life easier by automatically taking care of the needs of your vehicle. A key fob that connects to your smartphone, for instance, can detect your presence and unlock the doors, meaning you don't have to press the remote button. It can also sense when you're leaving the car and auto-lock the vehicle, so you don't have to worry about forgetting to lock the doors. A lot of smart key fobs come with a battery indicator that warns you ahead of time when the battery is running low. Also, replacing the battery in most models is a quick and simple procedure that does not require any special tools. Convenience Smart keys do not have to be physically placed in an ignition slot to unlock or start the vehicle. BMW Group explains that the driver only needs to bring the key within the range of the car. Certain smart keys, such as the Display Key, come with tiny LCD touchscreen that gives users access to features like locking, unlocking and keyless start directly from their key fob without the need to connect to the Bluetooth system in the car. Another way a smart key can help save time for drivers is by automating the process of locking their car doors when they leave it. This feature is found in a number of vehicles, as per Consumer Reports, and can help move into parking spots that are tight without accidentally squeezing something or someone. Open Road Auto Group explains that smart key systems do not transmit the same frequency signal in a series of and this could make them more susceptible to relay attacks. As such, a stolen vehicle cannot be hotwired even if it's equipped with a smart key since the encrypted signal that the key fob transmits is unique to each vehicle. This technology makes it difficult for thieves to steal the car. Security The latest cars are equipped with more advanced electronic features than ever before, and many of them are contained on the key fob. These devices do much more than open and close doors, or emit chirping sounds to help drivers find their car in a parking space, but some owners may not be aware of all that smart key fobs do. For example, some smart keys can activate a vehicle's automatic windows and sunroof once they are press. A auto editor for CR once went out to her Honda Accord only to find all the windows down and sunroof up. 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. This technology can prevent hotwiring in which thieves steal a vehicle's engine controller module (ECM) which is usually located at the front of the engine. The ECM is responsible for a variety vital functions, including transmission control and engine power. Other technologies used in smart keys include anti-theft codes and a security ID unique to each key, which can disable the ignition if it's not the correct one. The security ID is a number that is transmitted by the ECM from the key to the ignition and then confirmed by a sensor inside the car. Maintenance Smart car key fobs do more than unlock the door. It can remotely start your engine, activate suspension and brakes, and even start your car. It can also provide information about your car, such as the level of your fuel and the oil temperature. A smart car key fob, as every other electronic device requires regular maintenance in order to work effectively. Key fobs that are modern have indicators for the battery that alert the driver when the battery is low. Replacing the battery is a simple procedure, and no specialist tools are required. In some cases the smart key could stop functioning entirely. If you suspect that this is the issue, try to reset the smart key by leaving the vehicle, then returning inside. This will allow the car to detect that the key fob remains in the vehicle and will allow it regain functionality. If you're unable to get your fob to work call a locksmith help. They can reprogram it to ensure that the car recognizes it and allows you to use all of its features. It's generally cheaper to do this than buy the new fob for your key, and it could save money in the long run. In some instances, the locksmith can fix an existing key fob to be able to use it to purchase a new one. This can save you even more money in the end.