Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs have evolved a lot since their initial days as merely decorative trinkets. They can do anything, from locking and unlocking doors to starting the car remotely. Some have secret features that owners might not know about.

Replace the battery if your key fob stops working. The good news is that the job is relatively easy.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob can do a lot more than just unlock and start the car. It also functions as a security tool and deterrent to theft. Modern day key fobs that are high-tech are more reliable, efficient, and secure than ever. But their high cost could make them expensive to replace in the event of losing or break one.

A basic keyfob may cost only a few dollars however, it could cost upwards of $200 to program. The cost is higher for vehicles with high-end features or other special features. Some basic insurance programs or warranties can cover the cost for a mini replacement key key fob. However, most people will have to pay hundreds of dollars from their own pockets if this occurs.

Certain cars of recent years also have a fob which can also function as a smart key. These fobs are able to lock, unlock, and activate an alarm with the pressing of a button. They can also summon your car similar to Tesla's summon feature however, they must be within the range of the vehicle for them to function.

Fobs of this kind contain an iron key that folds into the fob, much like a switchblade knife. A spring keeps the key tucked inside when it's not in use and it is possible to pop it out at the push of a button to open the vehicle. A switchblade fob generally costs roughly the same amount as a standard key fob which comes with metal keys.

Keyless Entry Fobs that have a physical key hidden

Modern key fobs provide more than the ability to unlock and start a car. Newer models can perform everything from opening and closing windows to summoning the car and even auto-parking. While some of these clever functions may not be useful in your daily commute however they can be beneficial in certain circumstances.

Certain key fobs include a physical key, usually in the form a flat metal blade. Keys can be kept in a small compartment within the key fob or removed by pressing the button located on the base. If you're in a rush to get to your vehicle and you've forgotten your keys, or if you want to be in a position to start your BMW by pushing the button, having an extra key can be helpful.

The battery inside your key fob is bound to go out at some point, and this can be a major headache for you. The battery for your key fob could be easily and cheaply replaced. You can purchase an additional battery from your dealer, BimmerTech or a big-box retailer or hardware store.

Certain BMW key fobs include a Display Key which expands the range of functions that your car can be driven using the key. You can check whether the doors are locked, plan when the air conditioning will be turned on, and even check the level of your fuel from up to 1000ft away.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Side Mirrors That Fold

Key fobs of today are more advanced than ever. They can do more than just lock and unlock doors or start the car remotely. Depending on the model, it could also make chirping noises to aid you in finding your car in a parking space or can be used as an audio remote to control the radio stations.

Certain models that are more modern come with a hidden feature that allows you to lower the windows instantly with the click of a switch. This is great for a hot summer's day when your air conditioner just isn't able to keep up. You may have to test several different combinations before you find the one that is effective in your car.

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

Do you have a car that you share with an amiable giant or someone who just doesn't have the same length of legs as you? You may want to look for a car with an ignition keyfob that lets you set a memory seat. Certain models, such as GMC's GMC let you set up the seat you prefer and automatically remember it each time you turn on the car.

Keyless Entry Fobs that Connect to Bluetooth

With the rise of smart keys as well as smartphone access to cars criminals have gained an easy way to steal cars. These systems use wireless protocols that are prone to hijacking. Criminals can spoof signals from your phone or key fob to unlock the car and then start it.

Key fobs are small device that can be programmed to function as a hardware token. It provides on-device, one-factor authentication to enable access to a physical object like a car computer system, restricted area or mobile device. The fob transmits wireless signals to the sensor which can recognize and execute predetermined commands.

In many cases the key fob can also be used as a security token. It can support two-factor or multiple-factor authentication (2FA and MFA) to offer additional security. This is usually done by adding biometric verification to the equation. For instance fingerprints voice print, iris or fingerprint could be used.

Kwikset Kevo proximity keyless locks let users unlock their doors using smartphones or a Bluetooth-enabled fob. This eliminates the need for traditional keys. These kinds of systems are popular with business owners, as they make it relatively simple for administrators to integrate new employees and manage access for users without having to change locks or distribute keys.