What Makes A Smart Key Smart!? | C & S Locksmiths

A smart key or, intelligent key, is an electronic access control key system that comes optional and standard in most modern cars.

The smart key was first developed by the Siemens Company in the mid 1990’s. The first car company to introduce the technology was the Mercedes-Benz Automotive Company under the name “keyless go” in 1998 for their S-Class line of vehicles.

The function that really makes a smart key smart is the ability for the driver to keep the key fob in their pocket when, unlocking the car, locking the car, and even starting the vehicle. Vehicles with a smart key system will often have a push button ignition switch that can only be activated when the smart key fob is within the cars detectable range; essentially the distance when sitting in the driver seat.

The locking and unlocking mechanisms for smart keys and their correlating vehicle varies depending on the design. Most smart key systems include auxiliary buttons on the door handle which will lock or unlock the car when pressed with the smart key fob present. However there are smart key systems which will lock or unlock a car door by simply walking towards or away from the vehicle with the smart key fob present.

Additionally some smart key systems will automatically adjust a cars settings depending on the driver and based the smart key that is present. This automatic settings include seat positions, steering wheel positions, mirror settings, temperature setting and more.

Smart keys are just one way the automobile industry is moving forward with the ever changing technological world. Quite often technological advances can be intimidating but most local car dealers or key fob experts are glad to answer any questions or concerns. If located in the Tucson area contact the keyless and smart key experts at C & S Lock & Security to answer all your keyless and smart key questions and concerns!