Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs have been a long way since their early days as decorative trinkets. Today, they can perform everything from locking and unlocking doors to starting an automobile remotely. Some even have extra features that the owners may not be aware of.

Replace the battery in case your key fob ceases to function. It's an easy task.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

Key fobs do a lot more than unlock and start a car. It also serves as a security device and deterrent to theft. Today's high-tech fobs are convenient and powerful, as well as more secure than ever. Their high price can make it expensive to replace them if you break or lose one.

A basic keyfob can cost a few dollars however, it could cost upwards of $200 to program. Those costs are even higher for vehicles that are of high-end or that have special features. Certain basic warranties or insurance coverage programs might cover the cost of the replacement fob, however the majority of people have to shell out hundreds out of pocket for having their fob repaired.

Certain newer vehicles come with an accessory key fob that can be used as a smart-key. These fobs are able to lock, unlock, or activate an alarm with the pressing of one button. They can also summon your car, similar to Tesla's summon function. But they must be within range of the vehicle in order to function.

The type of fob you choose to use has a metal lock that folds into the fob like an ad-hoc 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 button to open the vehicle. A switchblade fob typically costs about the same as a standard key fob with metal keys.

Keyless Entry Fobs with an invisible physical key

Modern mini key fob fobs have more than just the capability to unlock and start a vehicle. Modern models can do anything from lowering windows to summon the car and even auto-parking. Some of these features aren't necessary for your daily commute, but they can be extremely helpful in certain situations.

Some key fobs include an actual key hidden within them, usually in the shape of a flat key blade. The keys are kept inside a small compartment within the fob, or they can be removed by pressing a button located at the bottom of the key fob. If you're rushing to reach your car and you forget your key or you'd like to be capable of starting your BMW using push-to-start, having an extra key may help.

It is inevitable that the battery inside your keyfob will degrade at some time. This could be quite a headache for you. Fortunately that replacing the battery in your key fob can be easy and affordable. You can purchase the replacement battery from your dealer, BimmerTech or a big-box retailer or hardware store.

Certain BMW key fobs have the Display Key, which adds to the range of functions that your car can be driven with the key. You can check if your doors are locked, and also schedule when the air conditioner is scheduled to be turned on. You can even see the level of fuel up to 1,000 feet away.

Keyless Entry Fobs With Side Mirrors that Fold

Key fobs today are more advanced than ever. They do more than simply lock and unlock the doors or remotely start the car. Depending on the model, it may also emit chirping sounds to help you find your car in a parking area or as an audio remote to control the radio stations.

Some of the more recent models come with a hidden feature that allows you to lower the windows at the touch of a button. This is a great feature to have on a hot summer day when the air conditioner doesn't seem to be able to complete the task. The sequence of button presses to activate the feature may not be labeled and you might have to test a few different combinations until you discover one that works for your vehicle.

If you're a lover of tight spaces, the key fob in some of the newer Chevrolet and GMC vehicles can help out by automatically folding the side mirrors after locking the car. To activate this feature, just press the "lock button" on the fob and hold it for a full 2 seconds.

Do you share a car with someone who is a gentle giant, or simply doesn't have as long legs as you do? You may want to look for a car with the key fob that lets the setting of a memory seat. Certain models, such as the ones from GMC let you create the seat you prefer and automatically remember it every time you start up the car.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Bluetooth Connection. Bluetooth Connection

Criminals have the ability to steal cars with ease thanks to the increasing popularity of smartphones for car access and smart keys. Wireless protocols that these systems use are vulnerable to hijacking by criminals able to disguise the signal from the key fob or smartphone to unlock and start your vehicle.

A key fob, which is small hardware token that can be programmed can be used to provide one-factor authentication on the device that allows access to physical objects like an automobile, computer system, restricted room or area or mobile device. The fob transmits wireless signals to a sensor, that recognizes the data and commands and performs functions such as locking or unlocking.

In a lot of cases the key fob could also be used as a security token. It can be used for two-factor or multiple-factor authentication (2FA and MFA) to give you additional security. This is usually accomplished by adding biometric verification to the equation. For example fingerprint or iris, or even a voiceprint can be used.

Kwikset Kevo proximity keyless locks permit users to open their doors using smartphones, or a Bluetooth-enabled fob. This removes the need for traditional keys. These systems are popular with business owners due to their ability to enable administrators to manage access to users and onboard new employees without needing to change locks or distribute keys cards.