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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 known as smart keys, keyless entry, or keyless entry fobs. Key fobs that are controlled by computers accomplish many things, including locking and unlocking a vehicle and even starting it. They function by broadcasting an encrypted, rolling signal. This makes them more resistant to hackers with a technological edge. Safety A smart key fob constantly communicates with the vehicle using radiofrequency signals. It emits a low power signal that, when pressed it, prompts the vehicle open doors and start the engine. The car recognizes the unique encryption code from a specific key fob. This means that even if the key fob is stolen, it won't be used to start the car. A new hack allows thieves to take advantage of this type of communication. Relay attacks are carried out using devices that transmit at the same rate as key fobs. How Stuff Works Electronics says that thieves could put one of these devices in an unnoticed pocket or a hidden location to block the remote lock command. This is a risk that could become more common as more people switch to smart keys. A smart key fob is not just a security device, but it can also make your life easier by automatically taking care of the requirements of your vehicle. For example the key fob connected to your smartphone can detect your presence and then unlock the doors, meaning you don't have to press a button on the remote. It can also tell the moment you leave and automatically lock the vehicle, so you don't have worry about forgetting to lock the doors. A lot of smart key fobs include a battery indicator that warns you ahead of time when the battery is at a low level. In addition, replacing the battery on most models is a straightforward, simple process that doesn't require any special tools. Convenience Unlike a traditional metal key Smart keys do not require physical insertion into an ignition slot to unlock or start the vehicle. Instead, the driver has to put it in their possession and be able to bring it within range of the vehicle, as explained by the BMW Group. In reality, certain smart keys, such as the Display Key, have an extremely small LCD touchscreen with color that allows drivers to access features like locking or unlocking as well as keyless start right from their key fob without needing to connect to their car's Bluetooth system. Smart keys can also save drivers time by automating the locking of their doors when they leave. This feature is available in a wide range of vehicles, as per Consumer Reports, and can also help move into parking spots that are tight without accidentally squeezing something or the person. Furthermore, smart key systems typically do not transmit the same frequency signal repeatedly in order to make them more vulnerable to relay attacks, says Open Road Auto Group. As such the vehicle that is stolen cannot be hotwired if it is equipped with a smart-key because the encrypted signal that the key fob transmits is unique to each vehicle. This makes it very difficult for thieves to steal the car. Security Some of the high-tech electronic features in today's newer automobiles are contained in the key fob. These devices are capable of more than locking and unlocking doors or making chirping sounds to help drivers locate their vehicle in parking spaces. However many owners are unaware of the full capabilities. For example, some smart keys can activate a vehicle's automatic windows and sunroof if they are pressed. One auto editor in CR walked into her Honda Accord to find the windows completely shut and the sunroof wide open. This was one of the reasons she was thankful for her Smart Key, which locked the vehicle automatically. Some smart keys use computer-encrypted signals to stop car thieves According to How Stuff Works. This technology stops hotwiring, in which thieves take the vehicle's engine control unit (ECM), which is usually located in the front of the engine block. The ECM controls a variety of vital functions, including transmission control and engine power. Other smart keys' features include anti-theft codes and an individual security ID assigned to each key. This can disable the ignition if it's not the right one. The security ID is a digit that is transmitted by the ECM from the key to the ignition, and then verified by a sensor located in the car. Maintenance A smart car key fob does more than just unlock your door. It can start your engine, and also activate suspension and brakes remotely. It also provides information about your car, such as the fuel level and oil temperatures. A smart car key fob, like any other electronic device, requires regular maintenance to function correctly. Modern key fobs come with indicators for batteries that inform the driver when the battery is low. It is simple to replace the battery, and you don't need special tools. In some instances, however, a smart key could stop functioning completely. If smart car key programming suspect this is the case, attempt to reset it by getting out of the vehicle and then coming back inside. This will allow the car to recognize that the fob is in use and allow it to return to normal operation. If you're unable to get your fob to work Contact a locksmith for help. They can reprogram it so that the car recognizes it again and allows you to utilize all of its features. This is usually cheaper than buying a brand new fob and could save you money over time. In some cases, the locksmith can fix an existing key fob to be able to exchange it to purchase a new one. This could save you money in the end.