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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 key fobs controlled by computers can perform many tasks, including locking and unlocking a vehicle and even starting it. They operate by broadcasting a rolling encrypted signal. This makes them less vulnerable to hackers with a technological edge. Safety A smart key fob continuously communicates with the vehicle via radiofrequency waves. It emits a low power signal that, upon pressing the button, instructs the vehicle to open doors and begin the engine. The car is programmed to recognize the unique encrypted code of a specific key fob. This means that if the keyfob is stolen, the car can't start. A new vulnerability allows thieves to take advantage of this communication. Relay attacks employ devices which transmit on the same frequency as the key fob. A burglar can put one of these gadgets in a pocket or hidden location to thwart the lock command from a distance, according to How Stuff Works Electronics. This is a risk that could become more commonplace as more drivers adopt smart keys. A smart key fob is not just a security feature however, it can simplify your life by automatically taking care of the requirements of your vehicle. For example the key fob connected to your smartphone can detect your location and unlock the doors, meaning you don't have to press the remote button. It can also detect the moment you leave and automatically lock the car, so you don't have worry about forgetting to lock the doors. A lot of smart key fobs come with an indicator for batteries that tells you when the battery is running low. In addition, replacing the battery on most models is a straightforward and easy process that does not require any special tools. Convenience Unlike a traditional metal key Smart keys do not require physical inserting into an ignition slot to unlock or start a vehicle. BMW Group explains that the driver just needs to bring the key within reach of the car. In fact, some smart keys, such as the Display Key, feature a small LCD color touchscreen that allows users to access features such as locking and unlocking, as well as keyless start directly from their key fob without needing to connect with the car's Bluetooth system. Another way smart keys can help drivers save time is by automating the process of locking their car doors after they leave. This feature is available in a variety of automobiles, according to Consumer Reports, and can help move into parking spots that are tight without causing injury to something or someone else. Additionally, smart key systems generally do not send the same frequency signal repeatedly in order to make them more vulnerable to relay attacks, as explained by Open Road Auto Group. Smart keys are distinct to each vehicle, therefore a stolen vehicle cannot be connected to a hotwire. This technology makes it difficult for thieves to steal a car. Security Some of the latest electronic features in today's modern automobiles are included in the key fob. These devices are capable of more than just locking and unlocking doors or making chirping sounds to assist drivers locate their vehicle in parking areas. However there are some who are unaware of the full capabilities. Certain keys that are smart, for instance, will activate the auto windows and sunroofs of vehicles when you press. A CR auto editor once walked out to her Honda Accord only to find all the windows down and sunroof opened. She was thankful for her Smart Key that automatically locked the car. According to How Stuff Works, some smart keys utilize computer-encrypted signals to prevent car thieves from stealing. This technology prevents hotwiring in which thieves steal the engine controller module (ECM) which is typically located in front of the engine. The ECM regulates a variety of vital functions such as engine power, transmission control, and many more. Smart keys also come with anti-theft codes, as well as an unique security ID code assigned to each key. This could disable ignition if the wrong key is used. The security ID is a digit that is transmitted by the ECM from the key to the ignition and then validated by a sensor in the car. Maintenance A smart car key fob can do more than just unlock your door. It can start your engine and operate suspension and brakes remotely. It can also provide details about your car, like fuel level and temperature of the oil. A smart car key fob, like any other electronic device requires regular maintenance to work correctly. Most modern key fobs feature indicators for the battery that alert the driver when the battery is low. It is simple to replace the battery and you don't need any special tools. In some cases however, a smart key may stop functioning entirely. If you suspect that's the case, attempt to reset it by getting out of the car and then re-entering it. This will allow the car to recognize that the key fob remains in the vehicle and allow it regain functionality. Contact a locksmith if you cannot get your key fob to function. They can reprogram it to ensure that the car can recognize it again and allows you to utilize all of its functions. It's usually more cost-effective to do this than buying a new key fob and it could save you money in the end. In some instances the locksmith may fix an existing fob to allow it to be used to make a new key. This can save you money in the end.