Smart Car Key Fob Replacement: 11 Things You're Not Doing

What Can a Smart Car Key Fob Do For You? Known as fobs or keyless entry or smart keys, they were introduced by Mercedes in 1998. These key fobs controlled by computers can accomplish many things, including locking and unlocking vehicles and also starting it. They work by broadcasting an encrypted, rolling signal. They are protected from tech-savvy thieves. Safety A smart key fob continuously communicates with the vehicle using radiofrequency signals. It sends out a low-power signal that, when pressed signals the car to unlock doors and start its engine. The car is programmed to recognize the unique encrypted code of a particular key fob. This means that if the keyfob is stolen, the car can't start. But a new form of hacking can allow thieves to exploit that communication. Relay attacks employ devices that transmit on the same frequency as the key fob. How Stuff Works Electronics says that thieves could put one of these devices in an unnoticed pocket or a hidden location to stop the lock command remotely. This is a problem which could become more frequent, as more drivers change to smart keys. Apart from smart keys for cars , smart key fobs can make life easier by automatically taking care of your vehicle's needs. For instance an electronic key fob connected to your smartphone will detect your presence and open the doors, so you don't have to press the remote button. It can also sense that you are leaving the car and automatically secure it, so you won't forget to lock the doors. Many smart key fobs have a battery indicator that alerts you when the battery is low. Also, replacing the battery in most models is a straightforward, simple process that does not require any special tools. Convenience Smart keys are not required to be inserted physically into an ignition slot to open or start the vehicle. Instead, the driver has to put it in their possession and be able to bring it within range of the vehicle, as explained by the BMW Group. Some smart keys, like the Display Key, feature an incredibly small LCD touchscreen that allows drivers to access features like locking, unlocking and keyless starting directly from their key fob, without needing to connect to the Bluetooth system in the car. Another way that smart keys can help drivers save time is by automatizing the process of locking their car doors after they leave. Consumer Reports says that this feature is available on a wide range of vehicles. It also makes it easier for drivers to maneuver into tight spaces without accidentally crushing someone or something. Open Road Auto Group explains that smart key systems don't transmit the same frequency signal over and over, as this can make them more susceptible to relay attacks. So the vehicle that is stolen 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 technology makes it extremely difficult for thieves steal cars. Security Some of the latest electronic features in today's modern automobiles can be found in the key fob. These devices do more than unlock and lock doors, or emit chirping sounds to help drivers find their car in a parking area However, some owners may not be aware of all that smart key fobs can do. For example, some smart keys can trigger windows that automatically open and sunroof once they are hit. One CR auto editor went into her Honda Accord to find the windows completely shut and the sunroof wide open. That's just one reason she was so grateful for her Smart Key, which locked the vehicle automatically. Certain smart keys use encrypted computer signals to stop car thieves According to How Stuff Works. This technology can prevent hotwiring in which thieves steal a vehicle's engine controller module (ECM) which is typically located in front of the engine. The ECM is responsible for many important functions, including engine power, transmission control and more. Other smart keys' features include anti-theft codes and a security ID unique to each key, which can block the ignition if it's not the right one. The security ID is a special code that's transmitted from the ECM to the key once it's put into the ignition. It is then confirmed by a sensor in the car. Maintenance Smart car key fobs do more than simply unlock the door. It can remotely start your engine, activate the brakes and suspension and even start your vehicle. It also gives you details about your car, like the level of fuel and temperature of the oil. A smart car key fob, like every other electronic device requires regular maintenance to function correctly. The majority of modern key fobs have indicators for the battery that alert the driver when the battery is running low. It's easy to replace the battery, and you don't need special tools. In some instances however, a smart key can stop working entirely. If you suspect that this is the case, try to reset the smart key by removing the vehicle and coming back inside. This will allow the car to recognize that the key fob is still in the vehicle and allow it to be used again. If you are unable to make your fob work call a locksmith assist. They can reprogram it so that your car recognizes it once more and allows you to utilize all of its functions. It's generally cheaper to do this than buy a new key fob, and it will save you money in the end. In some cases locksmiths are able to repair an existing fob to be used to create a new key. This can save you even more money in the end.