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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 perform a variety of functions, including locking and unlocking vehicles and also starting it. They transmit an encrypted, rolling signal. This makes them less vulnerable to hackers with a technological edge. Safety A smart key fob that communicates continuously with a vehicle using radiofrequency waves. It transmits a low-power message that, when pressed, signals the car to unlock doors and begin its engine. The car is programmed to recognize the unique encrypted code of a particular key fob. This means that even when the key fob has been stolen, it won't be used to begin the car. A new hack allows thieves to exploit this type of communication. Relay attacks are carried out with devices that transmit at the same frequency as a key fob. How Stuff Works Electronics says that thieves can put one of these devices into a pocket or hidden spot to block the remote lock command. This is a problem that could become more frequent as more people adopt smart keys. A smart key fob isn't just a security feature but can also make your life easier by automatically taking care of the needs of your vehicle. For instance the key fob connected to your smartphone can detect your location and unlock the doors, so it's not necessary to press the remote button. It also can detect that you are leaving the car and close it, so you won't forget to lock the doors. A majority of smart key fobs have an indicator for batteries that tells you when the battery is depleted. Most models allow you to replace the battery quickly and easily, without the need for any special tools. Convenience In contrast to a traditional key made of metal, smart keys do not require physically inserting into the ignition slot to unlock or start a car. Rather, the driver simply has to put it on them and bring it within range of the vehicle, as described by the BMW Group. Some smart keys, including the Display Key, feature small LCD touchscreen that allows users to access features such as locking, unlocking, and keyless starting directly from their key fob without having to connect to the Bluetooth system of the car. Another way a smart key can help save time for drivers is by automating the process of locking their car doors after they leave. This feature is present in many vehicles, according to Consumer Reports, and can assist in allowing drivers to move into parking spots that are tight without causing injury to something or anyone. Open Road Auto Group explains that smart key systems do not transmit the same frequency signal repeatedly and this could make them more vulnerable to relay attacks. Smart keys are unique to each vehicle, which means that a stolen car can't be connected to a hotwire. smart keys for cars makes it extremely difficult for thieves to steal a car. Security Some of the high-tech electronic features in today's newer automobiles are included in the key fob. These gadgets do much more than lock and unlock doors, or make chirping noises to assist drivers in finding their car in a parking space However, some drivers may not be aware of all that smart key fobs can do. For example, some smart keys are able to activate windows that automatically open and sunroof when hit. One CR auto editor went into her Honda Accord to find the windows all down and the sunroof fully open. That's one of the reasons she was so grateful for her Smart Key, which locked the vehicle automatically. According to How Stuff Works, some smart keys employ computer-encrypted signals to deter car thieves. This technology prevents 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. Smart keys also have anti-theft code and a unique security code for ID assigned to each key. This could stop the ignition if 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 A smart car key fob can do much more than unlock your door. It can remotely start your engine, turn on the brakes and suspension and even start your vehicle. It also gives you details about your car, like fuel level and oil temperature. A smart car key fob, as any other electronic device, requires regular maintenance in order to work properly. Key fobs that are modern have battery indicators that warn the driver when the battery is low. Replacing the battery is a straightforward procedure, and no specialized tools are required. In some cases however the smart key might stop working completely. If you suspect that's the case, you can reset it by getting out of the vehicle and then coming back inside. This will help the car recognize that the fob is still in place and allow it to return to normal operation. Contact a locksmith if you have trouble getting your key fob to work. They can reprogram it so that your vehicle recognizes it and allows you to use all of its features. It's generally cheaper to do this instead of buying a new key fob, and it will save you money in the long run. In some cases, a locksmith can fix an existing key fob in order to be able to exchange it for a new one. This can save you even more money in the end.