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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. These computer-controlled fobs are capable of performing many tasks like locking and unlocking the car, or getting it started. They transmit an encrypted, rolling message. This makes them less vulnerable to thieves who are tech-savvy. Safety A smart key fob communicates constantly with the vehicle via radiofrequency waves. It transmits a low power signal that, upon pressing the button, instructs the vehicle to unlock doors and start the engine. The car is programmed to recognize the unique encryption code of a particular key fob. This means that if a key fob is stolen, the car cannot be started. But a brand new type of hacking can enable thieves to gain access to that communication. Relay attacks are carried out with devices that transmit at the same rate as the key fob. A burglar can put one of these devices in a pocket or hiding area to disable the lock command from a distance, according How Stuff Works Electronics. It's a concern that could become more commonplace as more people switch to smart keys. A smart key fob isn't just a security feature, but it can also make your life easier by automatically taking care of the requirements of your vehicle. For example, a key fob that's connected to your smartphone will detect your proximity and unlock the doors, so you don't need to push a button on the remote. It can also sense the moment you leave and automatically lock the car, meaning you don't have to fret about not locking the doors. Many smart key fobs feature an indicator for batteries that tells you when the battery is depleted. The replacement of the battery in most models is a straightforward, easy procedure that does not require any special tools. Convenience As opposed to a traditional metal key Smart keys do NOT need to be physically inserted into an ignition slot in order to unlock or start a car. Instead, the driver must have it on them and bring it within range of the vehicle, as explained by the BMW Group. Certain smart keys, like the Display Key, have tiny LCD touchscreen that gives drivers access to features like locking, unlocking and keyless starting directly from their key fob, without needing to connect to the Bluetooth system of the car. Another way that smart keys can save drivers time is by automatizing the process of locking their doors when they leave. This feature is available in a variety of automobiles, according to Consumer Reports, and can also make it easier to navigate through parking spaces that are tight without accidentally squeezing something someone. Smart key systems generally do not send the same frequency signal repeatedly which could make them more susceptible to relay attacks, says Open Road Auto Group. Therefore the vehicle that is stolen cannot be hotwired even if it's equipped with a smart key because the encrypted signal that the key fob transmits is unique to each car. This makes it extremely difficult for thieves to steal a car. Security Modern cars have more high-tech electronic features than ever before, and a few of them are contained on the key fob. These devices are capable of much more than simply locking and unlocking doors, or making chirping sounds to assist drivers locate their car in parking spaces. However there are some who are unaware of the full capabilities. Certain smart keys, for example, will trigger the automatic windows and sunroof of vehicles when pressed. One auto editor at CR entered her Honda Accord to find the windows closed and the sunroof open. This is one of the reasons she was so grateful for her Smart Key, which locked the car automatically. According to How Stuff Works, some smart keys utilize computer-encrypted signals to protect against car thieves. This technology blocks hotwiring which is when thieves steal the vehicle's engine control unit (ECM) which is typically located on the front of the engine block. The ECM regulates a variety of vital functions, including transmission control and engine power. Other smart keys' features include anti-theft coding and a unique security ID assigned to each key. This could disable the ignition in the event that it's not the right one. The security ID is a specific code that's sent from the ECM to the key when it's put in the ignition, and is confirmed by a device inside the car. Maintenance A smart car key fob can do more than just unlock your door. It can start your engine and activate suspension and brakes remotely. It can also provide information about your car, such as the level of your fuel and oil temperatures. Like any piece of electronic equipment like a smart car key fob requires regular maintenance to function properly. Modern key fobs come with indicators for the battery that inform drivers when it's time to replace the battery. Replacing the battery is an easy procedure, and no special tools are required. In certain instances however, a smart key may stop functioning entirely. If you suspect that's the case, you can reset it by taking the car out and then coming back inside. This will let the car recognize that the fob is still present and allow it to be functional again. Contact a locksmith in the event that you have trouble getting your key fob to function. They can reprogram the fob to ensure that it is recognised by the car and you can make use of all its features. It's usually more cost-effective to do this instead of buying the new fob for your key, and it can save you money in the end. In some cases locksmiths can fix a fob that is already in use in order to be used to create a new key. smart car key coding could save you money in the end.