The 10 Scariest Things About Smart Car Key Fob Replacement

What Can a Smart Car Key Fob Do For You?

Also known as fobs, keyless entry or smart keys, they were introduced by Mercedes in 1998. Key fobs that are computer controlled can perform many tasks, including locking and unlocking cars as well as launching it.

They transmit an encrypted stream. This protects them from thieves who are tech-savvy.

Safety

A smart key fob communicates with a vehicle through radiofrequency waves. It sends out a low-power signal that, when pressed the button, instructs the vehicle to unlock doors and start the engine. The car recognizes the unique encryption code from a particular key fob. This means that even if the key fob is stolen, it cannot be used to start the car.

But a new type of hacking could let thieves exploit this communication. Relay attacks utilize devices which transmit on the same frequency as the key fob. How Stuff Works Electronics says that a burglar could slip one of these gadgets into an unnoticed pocket or a hidden location to block the key fob's lock command remotely. This is a problem that could become more frequent as more people adopt smart forfour key keys.

Apart from these security features, smart key fobs can simplify your life by automatically tending to your vehicle's needs. For instance a key fob connected to your smartphone will detect your location and unlock the doors, so you don't have to hit the remote button. It could also detect that you're leaving the car and then automatically lock it, so that you don't forget to lock your doors. A lot of smart key fobs include an indicator for batteries that informs you ahead of time when the battery is running low. And replacing the battery in the majority of models is an easy, simple process that does not require any special tools.

Convenience

As opposed to a traditional metal key smart car keys replacement keys do not require physical insertion into an ignition slot to unlock or start a car. Instead, the user requires it to be on their hands and be able to bring it within range of the vehicle, as explained by the BMW Group. Certain smart keys, such as the Display Key, have an incredibly small LCD touchscreen that grants users to access features such as locking, unlocking and keyless starting directly from their key fob, without having to connect to the Bluetooth system of the car.

Another way smart keys can save drivers time is by automating the process of locking their doors when they leave. This feature is found in many vehicles, according to Consumer Reports, and can also make it easier to get into tight parking spaces without accidentally squeezing something someone else.

Smart key systems usually 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. In this way the vehicle that is stolen cannot be wired hot 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 extremely difficult for thieves to steal a vehicle.

Security

Some of the top-of-the-line electronic features in today's modern automobiles are contained in the key fob. These devices do much more than just unlock and lock doors, or make chirping sounds that aid drivers in finding their vehicle in a parking lot However, some drivers may not be aware of all the things these smart car key Fob replacement key fobs are able to do.

Some smart keys, for instance, will activate the auto windows and sunroofs of an automobile when they are 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.

Certain smart forfour key replacement keys use encrypted computer signals to thwart car burglars according to How Stuff Works. This technology blocks hotwiring, which thieves steal a vehicle's engine controller module (ECM), usually located at the front of the engine. The ECM is responsible for a variety vital functions, including transmission control and engine power.

Other features of smart keys include anti-theft code and a unique security ID that is assigned to each key. This can disable the ignition if it's not the right one. The security ID is a specific code that's sent from the ECM to the key once it's put into the ignition and then verified by a sensor inside the car.

Maintenance

A smart car key fob can do more than just unlock your door. It can remotely start your engine, activate suspension and brakes, and even start your vehicle. It also provides information about your car such as the fuel level and oil temperatures.

A smart car key fob, just like any other electronic device, requires regular maintenance in order to work effectively. Modern key fobs come with battery indicators to alert the driver when it is time to replace the battery. It's easy to replace the battery, and you don't need special tools.

In some cases however, a smart key might stop working entirely. If you suspect that this is the case, attempt to reset it by taking the car out and returning to the vehicle. This will allow the car to recognize that the fob is present and allow it to return to normal operation.

Contact a locksmith if you are unable to get the key fob to work. They can reprogram it to ensure that your vehicle recognizes it and allows you to use all of its features. This is usually less expensive than buying a new fob and can save you money over time. In some instances, the locksmith can repair an existing key fob to be able to exchange it for a new one. This could save you money in the end.