Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs have been a long way since their initial use as decorative trinkets. Today, they can do everything from locking and unlocking doors to start an automobile remotely. Some of them have hidden features that the owners may not know about.

Replace the battery in case your key fob doesn't work anymore. It's a fairly simple task.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob does much more than simply unlock and start the car. It's also a theft deterrent and security device. Today's modern fobs are practical and powerful, as well as more secure than ever. However, their high price can make them expensive to replace in the event of losing or break one.

A basic keyfob might cost just a few dollars, but it can cost more than $200 to program. These costs are higher for vehicles that have high-end features or extra features. A few basic warranties or insurance coverage programs can cover the cost of the replacement fob, however the majority of people have to shell out hundreds out of pocket in the event of needing to get theirs fixed.

Certain newer cars include a fob that functions as a smart keys. The fobs can be used for locking, unlocking, or activating an alarm with the press of one button. They can even summon your car like Tesla's summon feature, however, they must be in reach of the vehicle to be effective.

The type of fob that you have is the lock made of metal which folds up into the fob, similar to the switchblade. A spring holds the key inside when it's not in use and allows you to take it out at the push of a key to access the vehicle. A switchblade fob generally costs about the same as a standard key fob which comes with the metal key.

Keyless Entry Fobs that have a physical key hidden

Many modern key fobs offer more features than just unlocking and starting the car. Modern models can perform everything from rolling down windows to summoning your vehicle and even auto-parking. Some of these features aren't necessary for your daily commute, but they could be extremely helpful in certain circumstances.

Some key fobs come with keys that are hidden inside, usually in the shape of a flat key blade. The keys can be put in a small compartment within the key fob, or removed by pressing the button on the base. If you're in a hurry to get to your car, and you've lost your key or want to be capable of starting your BMW with push-to-start capabilities, having an extra key may come in handy.

It is inevitable that the battery inside your key fob will go out at some time. This could be an enormous discomfort for the neck. The key fob battery can be replaced cheaply and easily. You can purchase a replacement mini keys battery from a dealer, BimmerTech or a big-box retailer or hardware store.

Certain BMW key fobs come with the Display Key that adds to the range of functions your car can be driven from the key. You can verify if the doors are locked and set a timer when the air conditioner should start. You can even see the level of fuel up to 1,000 feet away.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Folding Side Mirrors

Key fobs of today are loaded with more modern electronics than ever, and this little plastic piece of equipment does a lot more than lock or unlock doors and allow you to start your car remotely. Depending on the model, it can be able to make chirping sounds that help you find your car in a parking area or serve as an audio remote to control the radio stations.

Some of the latest models come with a hidden feature that allows you to lower the windows at the touch of a button. This is ideal on a hot summer day when the air conditioner doesn't seem to be able to complete the task. The button sequence to activate the feature isn't always identified however, so you may have to test a few different combinations until you've found one that works with your car.

If you'd like to keep your car in a compact space, the fobs on newer Chevrolet or GMC vehicles will automatically fold the side mirrors of the vehicle after you lock it. To enable this feature, press the "lock button" on the fob and hold it for a full 2 seconds.

Do you have a vehicle with someone who is a gentle giant, or just doesn't seem to have as long legs as you do? You might want to think about a car that has a key fob that allows you to set a seat memory. Certain models, such as those from GMC let you create the seat you prefer and automatically remember it each time you turn on the car.

Keyless Entry Fobs that connect to Bluetooth

Criminals are now able steal cars easily with the popularity of smartphone access to cars and smart keys. These systems use wireless protocols that are vulnerable to stealing. Criminals can use spoofing signals from your key fob or phone to unlock the car and then start it.

A key fob, a small programmable hardware token can be used to provide one-factor authentication on the device to allow access to physical objects like the vehicle, computer system restricted space or room or mobile device. The fob transmits wireless signals to a sensor which detects the information and commands, and performs predetermined functions, such as locking or unlocking.

In many instances the key fob could also be used as a security token. It supports two-factor or multiple-factor authentication (2FA and MFA) to provide added security. This is usually accomplished by adding biometric verification to the equation. For example, a fingerprint, iris or voice print can be used.

Keyless proximity locks like the Kwikset Kevo allow users to access their doors with an iPhone or Bluetooth-enabled key fob, eliminating the need for a traditional key. These systems are a favorite among business owners as they make it easy for administrators to manage user access and onboard new employees without having to change locks or distribute keys cards.