Car Keys For Aging Parents and Loved Ones
Sometimes caregivers of elderly loved ones have to make difficult choices. If an elderly parent or loved one is driving recklessly it could be time to remove their car keys.
Many vehicles come with a driver setting set to a specific key. This feature is especially useful when there are multiple people sharing the vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Most modern cars come with transponder keys, which add an additional layer of security that old flat metal keys cannot. They are tiny microchips in your keys that transmit signals to the car's immobilizer system that allows it to start only if a valid key is within reach. This technology has helped reduce car thefts across the globe.
It's not foolproof. Professional thieves have devised ways to spoof the signals while still hotwiring the vehicle. They can also reuse key blanks to create their own transponder. So, even if the car has transponder keys, it's worth getting a spare.
A reputable locksmith is able to make them for you at less than the cost of car dealerships. They'll begin by examining your key and determining the best method of copying and programming. The new key can be programmed to work with your vehicle.
A reputable locksmith should be able to assist you with non-transponder keys or "flat" keys. These keys connect to your car through mechanical means not electronic technology. These keys are easy for children to use, making them less secure. They can also be copied by anyone who has the help of a key cutter.
Smart Keys Keys
A majority of modern vehicles are equipped with smart keys, a form of key fob that performs the functions of a standard remote, but it also has additional features. Smart keys can unlock and lock your vehicle from a distance without pressing any buttons. You can use them to start the engine. These features are functional even if your key is hidden in your pocket or purse.
One of the best parts about smart keys is that they're extremely secure. Hackers cannot easily take your car because the signals they transmit are encrypted. A computer in your vehicle confirms the rolling code projected by the smart key before it begins the engine.
The technology is in the process of being developed and you might need to work through a few bugs in the system. For instance, if your phone and key are too close together, your cell's normal operating signals could interfere with the signal that your smart key sends.
Some smart keys feature tiny touchscreens in color. For instance, BMW developed the Display Key with a touchscreen which allows the user to perform a variety functions from the key fob, such as locking, unlocking, and even starting. The key also alerts the owner that its battery is low and suggests the replacement from your dealer.
Keyless Entry
If you don't want to go as deep as a transponder key, you can lock and unlock your vehicle by pressing one button. These systems use radio waves, also known as RF to signal a receiver inside the vehicle. Depending on G28 Car Keys employed, the signal can also be used to switch on the engine of the vehicle as well as disarm the security alarm.
Keyless entry eliminates the need to hide spare keys, which can be an important target for thieves. It also stops you from having to worry about losing or misplacing your car keys and could occur to anyone at any point. It is important to change the code often to ensure security.
You can utilize your key fob app or a physical key fob send a radio signal of 315 Megaherz. The signal is encrypted and scrambled prior to sending it, so even if hackers intercept it, they won't be able gain permanent access to your vehicle.
Some keyless entry systems include an engine that is not starting. This means that the car will run and start when the key is not in range. This safety feature is designed to keep your car from running short on gas and also to stop poisonous fumes from entering the interior.
Remote Start
Whether the car is parked in your driveway or on the street remote start systems provide peace of mind and ease of use. With a push of the button on your key fob or a "start" command via an app that the system sends the signal to your vehicle's RES control module to turn on and warm up your engine.
This system can also be used to control heated or cooled seats, or to open and close windows. Certain systems are more flexible and come with additional channels that can be used to control such things as power-assisted wheel, automatic climate controls and rear defrost.
The good news is, that a majority of Seat cars built after 1995 will have a transponder chip embedded within the key. Therefore, the majority of newer models are compatible with remote-start systems. However, certain older Seat models require a key with the more basic transponder chip and will not work with any remote-start systems.
Most parents have experienced that moment when they reach into the back seat of their child's car seat and struggle to push down on the red car seat buckle release button. A company called NAMRA has come up with a solution to this issue, making it easier to unbuckle the seat even if you are having a difficult time pressing down on the buckle with your thumb.