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What Can a Smart Car Key Fob Do For You? Mercedes introduced the first fobs in 1998. They are also known as smart keys, keyless entry, or keyless entry fobs. These computer-controlled fobs are capable of performing many tasks, such as locking and unlocking your car or getting it started. They work by broadcasting a rolling encrypted signal. This helps protect them from hackers with a technological edge. Safety A smart key fob that communicates continuously with a vehicle via radiofrequency waves. It transmits a low power signal that, when pressed, tells the vehicle to open doors and begin the engine. The car is programmed to recognize the unique encryption code of a specific key fob. This means that even when the key fob has been stolen, it cannot be used to start the car. But a new form of hacking can let thieves exploit this communication. Relay attacks are carried out with devices that transmit at the same rate as keys. Thieves can put one of these devices in a purse or hiding area to disable the lock command from a distance. How Stuff Works Electronics. This is a risk that could become more commonplace as more drivers switch to smart keys. A smart key fob isn't just a security feature however, it can make your life easier by automatically taking care of the needs of your vehicle. For example, a key fob that's linked to your smartphone could detect your presence and then unlock the doors, so it's not necessary to press the remote button. It could also detect that you're leaving the car and close it, so you don't forget to lock your doors. Many smart key fobs have a battery indicator which warns you when the battery is running low. And replacing the battery in most models is a straightforward and easy process that does not require any special tools. Convenience Smart keys do not need to be physically inserted in an ignition slot to open or start the vehicle. BMW Group explains that the driver simply needs to bring the key within reach of the car. In reality, certain smart keys, including the Display Key, feature small LCD color touchscreen that allows drivers to access features like locking or unlocking as well as keyless start directly from their key fob, without needing to connect with the car's Bluetooth system. Smart keys can also save drivers time by automating the closing of their car doors after they leave. This feature is offered in a number of vehicles, according to Consumer Reports, and can also make it easier to move into parking spots that are tight without accidentally squeezing something someone else. Open Road Auto Group explains that smart key systems do not transmit the same frequency signal repeatedly and this could make them more susceptible to relay attacks. In this way a stolen vehicle can't be wired hot if it's equipped with a smart-key because the encrypted signal that the key fob transmits is unique to each car. This technology makes it difficult for thieves steal cars. Security Modern cars have the most advanced electronic features ever before, and a few of those are located inside the key fob. These devices do much more than lock and unlock doors or make chirping sounds that assist motorists in finding their car in a parking lot however, some owners might not be aware of everything that these smart key fobs are able to do. For instance, some smart keys can activate a vehicle's automatic windows and sunroof if they are press. One CR auto editor entered her Honda Accord to find the windows closed and the sunroof completely open. That's just one reason she was so grateful for her Smart Key, which locked the vehicle automatically. Some smart keys use computer-encrypted signals to thwart car thieves according to How Stuff Works. This technology is able to prevent hotwiring in which thieves steal the vehicle's engine control module (ECM) that is usually located on the front of the engine block. The ECM is responsible for a variety important functions, including engine power and transmission control. Other features of smart keys include anti-theft codes and an individual security ID assigned to each key, which can disable the ignition if it's not the right one. The security ID is a code that is transmitted from the ECM to the key after it's placed in the ignition and confirmed by a device inside the car. Maintenance A smart car key fob does more than just unlock your door. It can remotely start your engine, activate the brakes and suspension and even start your vehicle. It also provides information about your vehicle, like fuel level and temperature of the oil. A smart car key fob like any other electronic device requires regular maintenance in order to function effectively. Modern key fobs have indicators for the battery that inform the driver that it is time to replace the battery. It is easy to replace the battery and you don't need special tools. In some cases however the smart key might cease to function completely. If you suspect this to be the case, you can reset it by getting out of the car and then re-entering it. This can help the car recognize that the fob is still in place and allow it to be functional again. If you can't get your fob to function call a locksmith help. They can reprogram it so that your vehicle recognizes it and allows you to use all of its features. It's typically more affordable to do this than buying an entirely new key fob and it could save you money in the end. In G28 Car Keys , a locksmith can fix an existing key fob to be able to use it for a replacement. This could save you more money in the end.