Car Keys For Aging Parents and Loved Ones
Caregivers of aging loved ones are often faced with difficult decisions. It may be time to take away the car keys of an aging parent.
Most cars have a driver's settings that is set to a specific key. This feature is particularly useful if multiple people are sharing the vehicle.
Transponder Keys
The majority of modern cars have transponder keys, which add a layer of security that old flat metal keys cannot. They are tiny microchips in your keys that transmit a signal to the car's immobilizer system which allows it to start only if a valid key is within reach. This technology has helped to reduce car thefts across the world.
However, it's not 100% secure. Professional thieves have discovered ways to disguise the signals and still wire the vehicle. They can also repurpose standard cut key blanks and design their own transponder keys. Even if the vehicle you're driving with a transponder, it's worth purchasing an extra.
A reputable locksmith can create keys for you at a fraction of the cost of a car dealership. They will scrutinize your key to determine the best methods of programming and copying. They'll then program the new key to work with your vehicle.
A reputable locksmith should also be able to assist you with non-transponder or "flat" keys. These keys connect to your car using mechanical methods and not using electronic technology. These keys are easy for kids to play with, and therefore they're less secure. They are also easily copied by anyone using a key cutter.
Smart Keys
Smart keys are a kind of key fob used in many modern vehicles. They serve the same functions as a remote control but they also come with 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 are functional even if the key is in your purse or pocket.
One of the great things about smart keys is that they're very secure. The signals they broadcast are encrypted, meaning that hackers can't use them to steal your vehicle. A computer in your car also checks the codes that are projected by the smart keys prior to making the engine start.
There are some issues that you may encounter because the technology is in development. For instance, if you phone and key are too close together, your cell's normal operating signals could interfere with the signal your smart key sends.
Some smart keys feature a small color touch screen. BMW for instance, developed the Display Key, which has an LCD screen that allows the driver to perform various functions from the keyfob, including locking, unlocking, or starting. The key also alerts the user when the battery is low and suggests a replacement from the dealer.
Keyless Entry
If you don't intend to go as far as a transponder or smart key, you are able to secure and unlock your vehicle by pressing the button. Continued utilize radio signals, also known as RF that communicate with a receiver inside the vehicle. Based on the system being used, the signal may also be used to turn on the engine of the vehicle and disarm the alarm system for security purposes.
Using keyless entry will eliminate the need to store spare keys, which are an important security risk for thieves. You don't have to be concerned about losing or misplacing your car keys, which can occur at any moment. However, it is important to make sure to change the code regularly to avoid compromising your security.
You can utilize your key fob app or physical key fob to transmit a radio signal that is 315 Megaherz. The signal is encrypted and then scrambled before being sent out, which means that even if hackers intercept it then they won't have the ability to gain permanent access to your car.
Certain keyless entry systems include the option of passive engine starting, which means that the car will start and start when the key isn't in range. This feature is designed to prevent your vehicle from running low on gas, and to avoid poisonous fumes from entering the interior.
Remote Start
Remote start systems can provide convenience and peace of mind whether your car is on the street or in your driveway. By pressing a button on your key fob, or a "start" command via an app it will send the signal to your vehicle's RES control module, which will activate and warm your engine.
This system can also be used to control heated or cooled seats, or to open and shut windows. Some systems are more versatile and feature auxiliary channels that can be used to control things such as power-assisted steering wheel, automatic climate controls, and rear defrost.
The positive side is that the majority of Seats made since 1995 include transponders embedded in the key. This means that the majority of the newer models are compatible with remote-start systems. However, some older Seat models will require a key with an older transponder chip and will not work with any remote-start systems.
Most parents have experienced that moment when they reach into the back of their child's car seat but aren't able to push down on the red car seat buckle release button. NAMRA has designed a solution to this problem. It makes it easier to remove the buckle, even if you have difficulty pressing down the buckle using your thumb.