Continuous Evolution of Car Keys
Car keys have evolved drastically over the years. From the mechanically cut metal key to mobile apps, the progress of car keys is, indeed, astonishing. Today we have many options, including the smart key.
Being only a few decades old, the traditional car key is a newcomer to the automotive industry. Ever since the inception of a key-operated vehicle in the last century, technology has been progressing at a rapid pace.
Nowadays, a car key is no longer a key by traditional standards; it is more of an electronic device, really. An automotive locksmith no longer needs to cut a key blank, but rather, reprogram the smart key or change the battery.
The 1990s saw the advent of a transponder key, a car key with a transponder chip that only allows the engine to start when the car and the key exchange the right code.
However, a few years later, a more advanced innovation came in the form of the smart key. In the newest vehicle models, you do not even need to physically touch the key to lock the doors or start the car’s engine.
But there is more. Read on to find out all about the smart key.
Where Did It Originate?
In 1995, Siemens, a German electronics company, developed the first smart key under the name “Smartkeys”. Later on, in 1998 to be exact, Mercedes-Benz introduced the first automotive smart key under the name “Key-less Go” on its S-Class.
The new key came as a replacement for the infrared security system introduced in the late 1980s. It is more than a key, though. The smart key is an electronic access and authorization system as it incorporates sophisticated, electronic components.
Electronics control the ignition system and locking mechanisms, which allow remote entry of the vehicle, as well as starting the engine without inserting a physical key. Additionally, the smart key incorporates remote control buttons into the key fob.
How it Works
As a driver, you are able to keep the key fob in your pocket when opening, locking, and starting your car. Antennas mounted on the car detects the smart key via radio waves, which the key emits through a generator embedded in the key housing. Often, a smart key comes with a backup key, which is either a spare, traditional key, or a key blade hidden within the key fob.
With the smart key inside the vehicle, on most cars, you can start the engine by pushing a starter button or turning an ignition switch. As you leave your car, doors lock either by pushing a button on the door handle or by walking away from the car.
Pros of the Smart Key
Among the several advantages of a smart key, convenience stands out. The ability to unlock car doors without needing to touch a button proves handy when you are carrying objects. Moreover, it makes it easier for the elderly, children, and people with disabilities to enter a vehicle.
However, the major benefit is better security against auto theft or hacking. A smart key transmits a unique, encrypted radio signal every time it is used, which makes it nearly impossible to duplicate or hack the key. More recently, another upside of the smart key is that it can store the driver’s preferences. Simply a button can adjust the seat, steering wheel, mirrors, and even preferred radio stations to preset settings.
Nevertheless, most inventions have their flaws, and the smart key has one or two.
Cons of the Smart Key
Ironically, the same feature of not needing to touch the key to open or start the car can be problematic. When handing your car to a friend or a valet, you may forget to actually give them the key. Getting in and out of the car without actually handling a key may become a habit!
Also, another downside is the hefty cost of getting a replacement key. If lost or broken, replacing your smart key will set you back a few hundred bucks. Although an automotive locksmith can replace or repair your key at a lower price than a dealership.
The Bottom Line
Overall, the smart key is a step up from older car keys. Surely, its features and functions outweigh its drawbacks. It may be costly to replace it, but the convenience and security it provides make for a good bargain.
What is next? One can only wonder, but the smart key is definitely not the last innovation in the automotive realm.
A day may come when we need to carry no keys. With biometric technology, as well as face recognition, a vehicle might soon be able to recognize its owner. No keys needed, just cameras and sensors. Then what will the Valets do?
If you want to learn more, call (773) 521 7000 or come to 4346 W 51st St, Chicago, IL 60632, United States.
