Car Keys For Aging Parents and Loved Ones
Caregivers of loved ones who are aging may face difficult decisions. If an elderly parent or loved one is driving dangerously then it could be the right the right time to get rid of their car keys.
Many cars have a driver's settings that is configured to a particular key. This feature is especially useful when you share the vehicle with more than one person.
Transponder Keys
Modern cars are equipped with transponder keys, which add an additional layer of security that keys made of flat metal cannot. They are tiny microchips embedded in your key that send signals to the immobilizer system of your car and allows it to begin only if a valid key is within range. This technology has helped to reduce car thefts around the world.
It's not completely secure. Professional thieves have devised ways to disguise the signals, and hotwire vehicles. They also reuse keys to make their own transponder. Even if your car is equipped with a transponder, it's still worth getting an extra.
A reputable locksmith will make keys for you at a fraction the cost of a dealership for cars. They will look over your key to determine the most effective methods of programming and copying. The new key can be programmed to work with your vehicle.
A reputable locksmith should also be able to help you with "flat" or non-transponder keys. These keys connect to your car using mechanical means not electronic technology. These keys are easy to use by children which makes them less secure. Anyone who has a key-cutter could also copy them.
Smart Keys
Many modern vehicles are equipped with smart keys, a type of key fob that fulfills the functions of a standard remote but also includes extra features. Smart keys can lock and unlock your car from a distance without pressing any buttons. They can also be used to start your engine. These functions will work regardless of whether the key is in your purse or pocket.
Smart keys are extremely secure. The signals they send out are encrypted, which means hackers aren't able to use them to steal your car. A computer in your vehicle checks the code that is that is projected by the smart key before it starts the engine.
You may encounter some bugs because the technology is being developed. For instance, if you smartphone and your key are too close the cell's normal operating signals could interfere with the signal your smart key transmits.
Some smart keys include a small color touchscreen. BMW for instance, created the Display Key, which has an LCD that allows the driver to perform various functions using the keyfob. These include locking, unlocking and starting. The key also alerts owner of a battery low and offers to order the replacement from your dealer.
Keyless Entry
If you're not looking to go as far as a smart key or transponder key, a keyless entry system will let you lock and unlock your car with the push of a button. These systems make use of radio signals, referred to as RF to communicate with a receiver within the vehicle. The system that is used will determine the signal can also activate the engine in the car and then deactivate the alarm.
Keyless entry will eliminate the need to store spare keys, which can be a major theft target. It also keeps you from worrying about losing or misplacing the car key and could occur to anyone at any point. You should change the key code often to ensure your security.
The way keyless entry works is to press the button on your device or key fob to send out an audio signal of 315 Megaherz. The signal is encrypted and scrambled before it is transmitted, so even if hackers intercept it, they won't be able to gain permanent access to your vehicle.
Certain keyless entry kits come with passive engine start which means that the vehicle will continue to run and start the engine even when the key isn't in the range. This feature is designed to keep your car from running out on gas and to prevent harmful fumes escaping into the interior.
Remote Start
No matter if your car is parked in your driveway or in the street remote start systems provide peace of mind and convenience. The system sends the signal to the RES module in the vehicle by pressing a button, or by using an application.
This system can also be used to adjust heated/cooled seats or open and close windows. Some systems are more flexible and incorporate auxiliary channels which can be used to regulate things as a power-assisted wheel automatic climate controls and rear defrost.
The good news is that most Seats made since 1995 include a transponder in the key. Consequently, seat replacement key can be used with remote-start systems. Some older Seat models require a key that has an unmodified transponder. These keys will not work with remote-start systems.
The majority of parents have had that moment when they reach into the backseat of their child's car seat and can't get enough strength to press down on the red car seat buckle release button. A company called NAMRA came up with a solution for this issue that makes it easy to unbuckle even if you are having a difficult time pressing down on the buckle with your thumb.