Car Keys For Aging Parents and Loved Ones
Caregivers of elderly loved ones often face difficult decisions. If an aging parent or loved one is driving in a dangerous manner it could be time to remove their car keys.
Most cars come with a driver's setting that is configured to a specific key. This feature is especially useful in the event that multiple people are sharing the vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are a standard feature in most modern cars. They add an extra layer of security to the car that flat metal keys can't. They are tiny microchips in your key that send an indication to the immobilizer system of your car which allows it to start only if a valid key is within reach. This technology has helped to reduce car thefts all over the globe.
It's not foolproof. Professional thieves have developed methods to alter the signals while still hotwiring a vehicle. They can also reuse standard cut key blanks and design their own transponder keys. Even if your car is equipped with transponders, it's worth getting a spare.
A reputable locksmith will create keys for you at a fraction of the cost of a dealership for cars. They will examine 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 may also be able help you with "flat" or non-transponder keys. These keys connect to your car using mechanical means, not electronic technology. These keys are easier to use by children which makes them less secure. They can also be copied by anyone using a key cutter.
Smart Keys Keys
Smart keys are a type of key fob used in many modern vehicles. They serve the same functions as a remote control, but they also have additional features. Smart keys are able to 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 even if your key is in a purse or pocket.
Smart keys are extremely secure. Hackers can't easily steal your car since the signals they transmit are encrypted. A computer in your car also checks the codes generated by the smart keys prior to starting the engine.
You may encounter some bugs since the technology is in development. For instance, if your key and phone are too close the normal operating signals could interfere with the signal that your smart key sends.
Some smart keys feature a small color touchscreen. BMW, for example, created the Display Key, which has a screen allowing the driver to perform different functions from the keyfob, including locking, unlocking, or starting. The key also informs the owner when its battery is low and will offer a replacement from the dealer.
Keyless Entry
If you don't wish to go as far as a transponder or smart key, you can still secure and unlock your vehicle by pressing the button. These systems utilize radio signals, referred to as RF to communicate with a receiver inside the vehicle. Depending on seat exeo key programming used, the signal could also be used to start the engine of the vehicle as well as disarm the alarm for security.
Keyless entry can eliminate the need to hide spare keys, which are a major security risk for thieves. You don't have to worry about losing or misplacing keys to your car which could occur at any moment. It is important to change the code often to ensure your security.
The way that keyless entry works is to press the button on your device or key fob to transmit the radio signal at 315 Megaherz. The signal is scrambled and encrypted before it is transmitted, so even if hackers are able to intercept it, they won't be able gain permanent access to your vehicle.
Certain keyless entry kits include passive engine start this means that the car will continue to run and start the engine when the key isn't within range. This safety feature is designed to keep your vehicle from running low on gas and also to stop harmful fumes escaping into the interior.
Remote Start
Remote start systems offer convenience and peace of mind regardless of whether your car is parked on the street or in your driveway. The system sends the signal to the RES module of the vehicle by pressing a button or through an app.
This system can also be used to adjust heated/cooled seats, or to open and shut windows. Some systems are more versatile and have auxiliary channels that can be used to control things like power-assisted steering wheels automatic climate controls, and rear defrost.
The good news is, that a majority of Seat vehicles manufactured since 1995 will have a transponder chip in the key. Most modern cars can be used with remote start systems. However, some older Seat models will require a key with the more basic transponder chip and will not work with any remote-start systems.
Most parents have experienced the moment when they reach into the back seat of their child's vehicle and can't get enough strength to press down on the red car seat buckle release button. A company called NAMRA created a solution to that problem, making it easier to unbuckle the seat even if you are having a difficult time pressing down on the buckle with your thumb.