Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs aren't just decorative trinkets. Today, they can perform everything from locking and unlocking doors to starting an automobile remotely. Some even have hidden features that owners may not be aware of.

If your car's key fob starts acting up, it's probably time to replace the battery. It's a simple task.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob does a lot more than unlock and start an automobile. It also serves as a security tool and deterrent to theft. Today's high-tech fobs are convenient and powerful, as well as more secure than ever. The high cost of these devices can mean it is expensive to replace them if you lose or break one.

A basic keyfob might cost a few dollars however, it could cost upwards of $200 to program. The cost is higher when you have a vehicle with top-of-the-line features or special features. Some basic insurance programs or warranties may cover the cost for a replacement key fob. However, most people will need to pay hundreds of dollars out of their pockets if this occurs.

Certain newer cars have a fob which functions as a smart keys. These fobs are capable of locking, unlocking, and arming an alarm with the button. They can also summon your car, similar to Tesla's summon function. But they must be within range of the vehicle to function.

The type of fob you choose to use has an iron lock that folds into the fob, much like the switchblade. The mini key fob replacement is kept in place when not being used by a spring. You can remove it with the push of a button. A switchblade fob generally costs approximately the same as a standard mini cooper key fob fob with an iron key.

Keyless Entry Fobs with an invisible physical key

Modern key fobs have more than just the ability to unlock and start a car. Modern models can do everything from lowering windows to call the vehicle, and even auto-parking. Certain of these features aren't necessary for your daily commute, but they could be extremely helpful in certain scenarios.

Some key fobs include keys that are hidden inside, usually in the form of a flat metal key blade. The keys can be put in a small storage compartment inside the key fob, or removed by pressing the button on the base. An extra key is useful if you are on the run to get to your BMW and you have forgotten your key.

The battery in the key fob is most likely to die at the time, and that can be a huge neck pain. Fortunately that replacing the battery in your key fob is easy and cost-effective. You can purchase an additional battery from your dealer, BimmerTech or a big-box retailer or hardware store.

Some BMW key fobs include a Display Key that lets you control your car with the key. You can check whether the doors are locked, program when the air conditioning will be turned on, and even check the level of your fuel from up to 1000 feet away.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Side Mirrors That Fold

Key fobs of today are loaded with more high-tech electronics than ever before, and this plastic device can do a lot more than just lock and unlock the doors and remotely start the car. Depending on the model, it can also emit chirping sounds to help you locate your car in a parking lot or be used as an audio remote to control your car's radio stations.

One of the most useful hidden functions is available on modern models that permit you to minimize all windows immediately by pressing a button on the key fob. This is ideal for a hot summer's day when your air conditioner cannot keep up. The sequence of buttons that activate the feature isn't always labeled however, so you may have to experiment with a few different combinations until you come across one that works for your car.

If you're a fan of tight spaces keys in some newer Chevrolet and GMC vehicles can help you out by automatically folding the side mirrors once you have locked the vehicle. Simply press the "lock" button on the fob for a full two seconds to activate this feature.

Do you have a passenger in your car who is a gentle giant, or just doesn't seem to have as long legs as you do? Then you might want to look into a car with keys that allow you to set a seat memory. Some models, such as those from GMC allow you to set the seat you prefer, and the car will be able to remember it each time you start it.

Keyless Entry Fobs that connect to Bluetooth

Criminals have the ability to steal cars with ease due to the increasing popularity of smartphones for access to cars and smart keys. These systems rely on wireless protocols that are prone to being hijacked. Criminals are able to spoof signals from your key fob or phone to unlock the car and then start it.

A key fob is a small device that can be programmed to function as a hardware token. It allows on-device, one-factor authentication for access to physical objects like a car computer system, restricted zone or mobile device. The fob sends wireless signals to the sensor which recognizes and executes predetermined commands.

In many instances keys are also a security token which supports multi-factor or two-factor authentication (2FA or MFA) methods to provide additional security. This is usually accomplished by adding biometric verification to the equation. For instance fingerprints or iris scan, or even a voice print could be used.

Keyless locks that are proximity-based like the Kwikset Kevo allow users to access their doors with an iPhone or Bluetooth-enabled key fob, removing the need for a traditional key. These kinds of locks are very popular with business owners because they make it a breeze for administrators to take on new employees and manage user access without having to change the locks or distribute keys.