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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. The fobs that are computer controlled are capable of performing a variety of functions including locking and unlocking the vehicle or beginning it. They function by broadcasting an encrypted, rolling signal. This makes them more resistant to cyber-savvy thieves. smart forfour key with a vehicle via radiofrequency waves. It transmits a low power signal that, when pressed, tells the vehicle to open doors and start the engine. The car is programmed to recognize the unique encrypted code of a specific key fob. This means that even when the key fob is stolen, it won't be used to begin the car. A new hack allows thieves to take advantage of this method of communication. Relay attacks use devices that transmit at the same frequency as the key fob. How Stuff Works Electronics says that a thief could place one of these devices inside the pocket or hidden area to stop the lock command remotely. This is a risk that could become more frequent as more people change to smart keys. A smart key fob is not just a security feature but it can simplify your life by automatically taking care of the needs of your vehicle. A key fob linked to your smartphone, for example can detect your presence and then unlock the doors so that you don't have to press the remote button. It also can detect when you're leaving and automatically lock the vehicle, so you don't have to fret about forgetting to lock the doors. A lot of smart key fobs also have a battery indicator that warns you ahead of time when the battery is getting low. The majority of models let you replace the battery quickly and without the need for any special tools. Convenience As opposed to a traditional metal key Smart keys do NOT need to be physically inserted into the ignition slot to unlock or start the vehicle. Rather, the driver simply needs to have it on them and bring it within range of the vehicle, as described by the BMW Group. Some smart keys, like the Display Key, feature small LCD touchscreen that grants users access to features such as locking, unlocking and keyless starting directly from their key fob, without the need to connect to the Bluetooth system of the car. Another way smart keys can save drivers time is by automatizing the process of locking their car doors after they leave. Consumer Reports says that this feature is present on a variety of automobiles. It also makes it easier for drivers to maneuver into tight spaces without accidentally hitting someone or something. Open Road Auto Group explains that smart key systems do not transmit the same frequency signal repeatedly which can make them more vulnerable to relay attacks. Smart keys are distinct to each vehicle, so a stolen vehicle can't be connected to a hotwire. This technology makes it extremely difficult for thieves to steal a car. Security Some of the latest electronic features found in the latest automobiles are contained in the key fob. These devices can do more than just lock and unlock doors or make chirping sounds that help drivers find their car in a parking space, but some owners may not be aware of everything that these smart key fobs are able to do. Certain keys, such as example, can activate the automatic windows and sunroofs on vehicles when you press. One auto editor in CR walked into her Honda Accord to find the windows completely shut and the sunroof completely open. This is one of the reasons she was grateful for her Smart Key, which locked the vehicle automatically. According to How Stuff Works, some smart keys employ computer-encrypted signals to stop car thieves. This technology prevents hotwiring, which is when thieves steal the engine control module (ECM), that is usually located in the front of the engine block. The ECM is responsible for many important functions such as engine power, transmission control and more. Smart keys also come with anti-theft codes and a unique security code for ID assigned to each key. This will disable ignition when the wrong key is used. The security ID is a code that is transmitted by the ECM from the key to the ignition, and then verified by a sensor located in the car. Maintenance Smart car key fobs can do much more than unlock the door. It can start your engine and operate the brakes and suspension remotely. It can also provide information about your car such as the fuel level and the temperature of your oil. Like any piece of electronic equipment like a smart car key fob needs regular maintenance in order to function properly. Modern key fobs have indicators for the battery that inform the driver that it is time to replace the battery. It is simple to replace the battery, and you don't need special tools. In some cases however, the smart key will stop working completely. If you suspect this is the case Try to reset the smart key by removing the vehicle and then returning to it. This will allow the car to recognize that the fob is still active and allow it get back to its normal function. Contact a locksmith if you cannot get your key fob working. They can reprogram the fob to ensure that it can be recognised by the car and you are able to use all its features. It's usually more cost-effective to do this than buy an entirely new key fob and it can save you 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 money in the end.