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What Can a Smart Car Key Fob Do For You? Mercedes introduced the first fobs in the year 1998. They are also referred to as smart keys, keyless entry or keyless entry fobs. These fobs controlled by computers are capable of performing a variety of functions including locking and unlocking your car or beginning it. They function by sending an encrypted message that is continuously transmitted. This makes them more resistant to tech-savvy thieves. Safety A smart key fob communicates with a vehicle through radiofrequency waves. It sends a low-power signal that, when pressed it, signals the vehicle to open doors and start the engine. The car is programmed to recognize the unique encryption code of a particular key fob. This means that even when the key fob is stolen, it won't be used to start the car. A new vulnerability allows thieves to take advantage of this method of communication. Relay attacks are carried out using devices that transmit at the same rate as a key fob. A thief can place one of these devices in a pocket or a hiding area to disable the lock command from a distance, says How Stuff Works Electronics. It's a concern that could become more common as more drivers adopt smart keys. Aside from these security features, an intelligent key fob could simplify your life by automatically tending to the needs of your vehicle. For instance, a key fob that's connected to your smartphone can detect your proximity and unlock the doors, meaning that it's not necessary to press a button on the remote. It also can detect when you're leaving and auto-lock the car, so you don't have worry about forgetting to lock the doors. Many smart key fobs include an indicator for batteries that informs you in advance that the battery is at a low level. In addition, replacing the battery on the majority of models is an easy and simple procedure that does not require any special tools. Convenience In contrast to a traditional key made of metal, smart keys do not require physical inserting into an ignition slot in order to unlock or start a car. Rather, the driver simply requires it to be on their hands and bring it within the range of the vehicle, as explained by the BMW Group. In reality, some smart keys, like the Display Key, feature tiny LCD touchscreen in color that allows drivers to access features such as locking, unlocking, and keyless start directly from their keys without having to connect to the car's Bluetooth system. Another way a smart key can save drivers time is by automating the process of locking their doors when 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 spots without accidentally squeezing the door or something else. Smart key systems usually do not transmit the same frequency signal over and over which could make them more vulnerable to relay attacks, says Open Road Auto Group. Smart keys are unique to each vehicle, therefore a stolen vehicle cannot be hotwired. This technology makes it incredibly difficult for thieves to steal a vehicle. Security Some of the top-of-the-line electronic features in today's newer automobiles are contained in the key fob. These devices do more than just lock and unlock doors, or emit chirping sounds to assist motorists in finding their car in a parking space However, some drivers may not be aware of everything that these smart key fobs can do. For example, some smart keys can trigger a vehicle's automatic windows and sunroof when they are pressed. One auto editor in CR went into her Honda Accord to find the windows all down and the sunroof wide open. 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 is able to prevent hotwiring where thieves steal the vehicle's engine control module (ECM), which is usually located on the front of the engine block. The ECM manages many essential functions such as engine power, transmission control and other functions. Smart keys also include anti-theft codes, as well as an unique security code for ID assigned to each key. This could disable the ignition if the wrong key is used. The security ID is a number that is transmitted by the ECM from the key to the ignition, followed by verification by a sensor inside the car. Maintenance Smart car key fobs can do much more than unlock the door. It can remotely start your engine, operate the brakes and suspension and even start your car. It also provides information about your vehicle, like the level of fuel and oil temperature. Like any piece of electronic equipment, a smart car key fob needs regular maintenance to operate correctly. Modern key fobs feature indicators for the batteries to inform the driver when it's time to replace the battery. It is simple to replace the battery, and you don't need any special tools. In some instances the smart key might stop working completely. If you suspect this is the problem, try to reset the smart key by exiting the vehicle and then returning to it. This will allow the car to recognize that the key fob remains in the vehicle and let it to be used again. If you're unable to get your fob to function, contact a locksmith to help. They can reprogram it so that the car can recognize it once more and allows you to use all of its functions. smart car key programming near me 's generally cheaper to do this rather than purchasing an entirely new key fob and it can save you money in the long run. In some instances the locksmith may fix a fob that is already in use so that it can be used to create new keys. This can save you money in the end.