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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 first introduced by Mercedes in 1998. Key fobs that are computer controlled can accomplish many things, including locking and unlocking a vehicle and even starting it. They operate by broadcasting an encrypted stream. This helps protect them from hackers with a technological edge. vehicle smart key is constantly communicating with a vehicle through radiofrequency waves. It transmits a low-power signal that, when pressed will instruct the car to open doors and start its engine. The car is programmed to recognize the unique encrypted code of a specific key fob. This means that in the event that the keyfob is stolen, the car cannot be started. But a brand new type of hacking could allow thieves to exploit that communication. Relay attacks are carried out using devices that transmit at the same rate as key fobs. How Stuff Works Electronics says that a burglar could slip one of these devices inside pockets or in a hidden place to block the remote lock command. It's a problem that is likely to become more prevalent as more drivers adopt smart keys. Aside from these security features, the smart key fob can simplify your life by automatically adjusting to the needs of your vehicle. A key fob linked to your smartphone, for instance can detect your presence and open the doors, meaning you don't need to push the remote button. It could also detect that you're leaving the vehicle and automatically lock it, so you don't forget to lock your doors. A lot of smart key fobs have an indicator for batteries that informs you in advance that the battery is low. The replacement of the battery in the majority of models is a simple and easy process that doesn't require any special tools. Convenience Contrary to traditional keys made of metal smart keys do not need to be physically inserted into an ignition slot in order to unlock or start the car. Instead, the driver must have it in their possession and bring it within range of the vehicle, as explained by the BMW Group. In reality, certain smart keys, including the Display Key, come with an extremely small LCD touchscreen with color that allows users to access features such as locking, unlocking, and keyless start directly from their key fob, without needing to connect to their car's Bluetooth system. A smart key can also help drivers save time by automating the locking of their doors when they leave. Consumer Reports says that this feature is offered on a number of automobiles. It also makes it easier for drivers to maneuver around tight spaces without accidentally crushing the door or something else. Additionally, smart key systems typically do not send the same frequency signal over and over, as this could make them more vulnerable to relay attacks, says Open Road Auto Group. Smart keys are distinct to each vehicle, so a stolen car cannot be hotwired. This makes it very difficult for thieves steal a car. Security Today's newer cars pack in more high-tech electronic features than ever before, and many of them are found in the key fob. These devices do much more than just unlock and lock doors, or emit chirping sounds to assist drivers in finding their vehicle in a parking lot, but some owners may not be aware of all the things these smart key fobs are able to do. Certain smart keys, for example, can activate the automatic windows and sunroof of an automobile when the key is pressed. One auto editor at CR walked into her Honda Accord to find the windows all down and the sunroof wide open. This was 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 make use of computer-encrypted signals to protect against car thieves. This technology stops hotwiring in which thieves steal the engine controller module (ECM) which is usually located at the front of the engine. The ECM controls a variety of vital functions, such as transmission control and engine power. Other technologies used in smart keys include anti-theft coding and an individual security ID assigned to each key, which could disable the ignition in the event that it's not the right one. The security ID is a special code that is transmitted from the ECM to the key after it's placed into the ignition. It is then confirmed by a device inside the car. Maintenance Smart car key fobs can do more than simply unlock the door. It can start your engine, and also activate the brakes and suspension remotely. It also provides information about your car, such as the level of your fuel and oil temperatures. Like any piece of electronic equipment smart car key fob needs regular maintenance to ensure it functions effectively. Modern key fobs have indicators for the battery that inform the driver when it's time to replace the battery. It's easy to replace the battery and you don't require any 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 leaving the vehicle and then returning to it. This will allow the car to recognize that the key fob remains inside the vehicle, and allow it to regain its functionality. If you can't get your fob to function, contact a locksmith to help. They can reprogram it so that your vehicle recognizes it again and allows you to use all of its functions. It's usually more cost-effective to do this rather than purchasing an entirely new key fob and it could save you money in the end. In certain instances, the locksmith can fix an existing key fob to be able to exchange it to purchase a new one. This can help you save more money in the end.