Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs have changed a lot from their early days as decorative trinkets. They now have the ability to do everything from locking and unlocking doors to starting the car remotely. There are some that have secret features that owners might not know about.

If your car's key fob starts being a bit shaky, it's time to replace the battery. It's an easy task.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob can be used to do more than unlock the car and start it. It also serves as a security tool and also a deterrent against theft. Modern day fobs are easy to use, powerful, and more secure than ever. However, their price could make them costly to replace in the event of losing or break one.

A basic keyfob could cost a few dollars, but it can cost more than $200 to program. These prices are higher for vehicles that have high-end options or features. Some basic insurance programs or warranties will pay for a replacement key fob. However, most people will need to pay hundreds of dollars out of their own pockets if this happens.

Certain vehicles of recent years also have the fob of a key that can be used as an intelligent key. The fobs can be used for locking, unlocking, or arming an alarm with the button. They could even summon your car similar to Tesla's summon feature but they have to be within the reach of the vehicle to operate.

Fobs of this kind contain an iron key that folds into the fob like a switchblade knife. The key is hidden when not being used by springs. It is removed by pressing an button. A switchblade key fob costs about the same as a key fob with a metal key.

Keyless Entry Fobs that have a Physical Key Hidden

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

Some key fobs include keys that are hidden in them, usually in the shape of a flat key blade. These keys can be stored in a small compartment inside the key fob or removed by pressing the button located on the base. If you're trying to get to your vehicle and you've lost your keys or you'd like to be in a position to start your BMW by pushing the button, having a spare key can be helpful.

The battery inside your key fob is sure to fail at some point. This could cause a lot of neck pain. The battery in your key fob can be replaced easily and inexpensively. You can purchase a replacement from your dealer, a seller from a third party like BimmerTech, or a hardware store, or big-box retailer.

Certain BMW key fobs also come with the Display Key that lets you control your car using the key. You can see if the doors are locked, program when the AC should be turned on, and even check your fuel level from up to 1000ft away.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Side Mirrors That Fold

Key fobs in the modern age are more advanced than ever. They do more than lock and unlock doors or start the car remotely. It may also make chirping noises to help you locate your car when you are in a parking spot or act as a remote audio control to control the radio stations in your car.

Some of the more recent models include a hidden feature that allows you to lower the windows at the push of a button. This is great on a hot summer's day when your air conditioner just isn't able to keep up. It's possible to test several different combinations before you find the one that will work in your mini car key.

If you like to keep your vehicle in a smaller space, the key fob on some newer Chevrolet or GMC vehicles will automatically fold the side mirrors after you lock it. To activate this feature, press the "lock button" on the fob and hold it for 2 seconds.

Do you have a vehicle with someone who is a gentle giant or doesn't appear to have the same length legs as you do? If so, you may want to look into a vehicle with a key fob that allows you to set a seat memory. Some models, such as those from GMC allow you to choose an individual preference for your seat and the vehicle will remember it each time you start it.

Keyless Entry Fobs that connect to Bluetooth

Criminals can now steal cars with ease due to the growing popularity of smartphones with car access and smart keys. These systems make use of wireless protocols that are prone to hijacking. Criminals are able to spoof signals from your phone or key fob to unlock and start your car.

A key fob, which is small, programmable hardware token offers one-factor authentication for the device that allows access to physical objects such as an automobile, computer system restricted area or room, or mobile device. The fob sends wireless signals to the sensor, that recognizes and executes predetermined commands.

In many cases, the key fob can also be used as an additional security token. It can support two-factor or multiple-factor authentication (2FA and MFA) to offer additional security. This is typically done by adding biometric authentication to the equation. This can include a fingerprint scan as well as an iris scan or voice prints, for example.

Proximity keyless lock systems like the Kwikset Kevo allow users to open their doors using a smartphone or a Bluetooth-enabled key fob, eliminating the requirement for a traditional key. These systems are a favorite among business owners due to their ability to make it easy for administrators to manage user access and onboard new employees without having to change locks or distribute keys cards.