Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs have been a long way since their early days as decorative trinkets. They can now do everything from locking and unlocking doors to start the car remotely. There are some that have secret features that owners might not be aware of.

Replace the battery in case your key fob isn't working. The good thing is that the task is comparatively simple.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob can be used to do more than just unlock the car and start it. It is also a theft deterrent and security device. Modern-day key fobs with high-tech technology are more powerful, convenient, and secure than ever. Their high price can be costly to replace them if you break or lose one.

A basic key fob could be a couple of dollars to buy however programming it will cost you more than $200. These costs are more expensive for vehicles with premium features or other special features. A few basic warranties or insurance coverage programs might pay for a replacement mini cooper key key for mini cooper (explanation) fob, but most people find themselves shelling out hundreds out of pocket for having their fob fixed.

Some of the latest vehicles include an accessory key fob that can be used as an intelligent key. The fobs can be used to be locked, unlocked, and arm an alarm at the press of one button. They can even summon your car like Tesla's summon feature, but they have to be within the reach of the vehicle to function.

This kind of fob has the lock made of metal which folds up into the fob, like a switchblade. A spring keeps the key tucked inside when it's not in use and allows you to take it out at the push of a button to access the vehicle. A switchblade key fob usually costs about the same as a standard key fob which comes with an iron key.

Keyless Entry Fobs that have a physical key hidden

Modern key fobs offer more than the ability to unlock and start a car. Newer models can do everything from rolling down windows, summoning the vehicle and even auto-parking. While some of these handy features might not be necessary on your daily commute, they can be incredibly helpful in certain situations.

Certain key fobs include keys that are physical, typically in the form of a flat metal blade. Keys are stored in a small slot inside the fob, and can be removed when you press a button on the base of the key fob. If you're in a rush to get to your car and you forget your key or you'd like to be in a position to start your BMW with push-to-start functionality, having an extra key may be useful.

It is a given that the battery in your keyfob will die at some time. This can be quite a discomfort for the neck. The battery of your key fob can be replaced cheaply and easily. You can buy an additional battery from your dealer, BimmerTech or a big-box retailer or hardware store.

Certain BMW key fobs have a Display Key that can be used to enhance the number of functions that your car can be driven from the key. You can check if your doors are locked and plan when the air conditioning will start. You can even see the fuel level up to 1,000ft away.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Folding Side Mirrors

Key fobs today are more advanced than ever. They do more than lock and unlock doors or allow you to start your car remotely. It can also emit chirping sounds to help you locate your car in a parking lot or act as an audio remote to control the radio stations of your car.

One of the most useful hidden features is found on a few modern models that permit you to minimize all windows at once by pressing an icon on your key fob. This is great for hot summer days when your air conditioner just isn't able to keep up. The sequence of buttons to activate the feature may not be labeled, so you may have to play around with different combinations until you come across one that fits your vehicle.

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

Do you share your car with the gentle giant or someone who just doesn't have the same legs as you? You might want to think about a car that has an electronic key fob that allows you to set the seat memory. Certain models, such as the ones from GMC, allow you to set up a seat preference and automatically remember it every time you start up the car.

Keyless Entry Fobs, that can be connected to Bluetooth

With the growing popularity of smart keys as well as smartphone car access criminals have gained an easy way to steal vehicles. These systems rely on wireless protocols that are susceptible to hijacking. Criminals can steal signals from your key fob or phone to unlock the car and then start it.

A key fob, which is small, programmable hardware token can be used to provide one-factor authentication on the device to facilitate access to physical objects such as the vehicle, computer system, restricted room or area or mobile device. The fob sends wireless signals to the sensor which recognizes and executes predetermined commands.

In many 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 offer additional security. This is usually accomplished by adding biometric verification to the equation. For example fingerprints voice print, iris or fingerprint can be used.

Keyless locks that are proximity-based like the Kwikset Kevo allow users to open their doors using an iPhone or Bluetooth-enabled key fob, eliminating the requirement for a traditional key. These systems are popular with business owners because they make it simple for administrators to manage user access and onboard new employees without needing to change locks or distribute keys cards.