Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs have evolved a lot since their beginnings as decorative trinkets. Today, they can be used for everything from locking and unlocking doors to starting cars remotely. Certain models have secret features that owners might not be aware of.

replace mini key the battery in case your key fob isn't working. The good thing is that the task is relatively easy.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

Key fobs do more than just unlock and start the car. It's also a theft deterrent and security device. Modern key fobs are more durable, convenient and secure than they have ever been. The high cost of these devices can mean it is expensive to replace them if you break or lose one.

A basic key fob could only cost a few dollars to buy however, having it programmed could cost more than $200. These costs are higher when you have a vehicle with top-of-the-line features or other special features. Certain insurance programs or warranties might pay for a replacement key fob. However, the majority of people will have to pay hundreds of dollars from their pockets if this occurs.

Certain cars of recent years also come with a fob, which can double as a smart key. They can lock, unlock, and arm an alarm with a press of a button. They can even summon your car like Tesla's summon feature, but they have to be within the proximity to the vehicle in order to operate.

This kind of fob has an aluminum lock that folds in the fob, similar to a switchblade. The key is kept in place when not being used by a spring. You can remove it with the push of an button. A switchblade fob typically costs about the same as the standard key fob that comes with the metal key.

Keyless Entry Fobs with an invisible physical key

Modern key fobs come with more features than just unlocking and starting a car. Modern models can do everything from rolling down windows to summon the car, and even auto-parking. While some of these nifty functions might not be beneficial during your commute but they can be useful in certain situations.

Some key fobs contain a physical key, usually in the form of a flat blade of metal. The keys are stored inside a small compartment within the fob, or can be removed by pressing a button on the bottom of the key fob. If you're in a rush to get to your vehicle and you've lost your keys, or if you want to be in a position to start your BMW by pushing the button, having an extra key may be useful.

It is a given that the battery inside the key fob will fail at some point. This could be an enormous neck pain. The battery of your key fob can be easily and cheaply replaced. You can buy a mini cooper replacement key from your dealer, a third-party seller such as BimmerTech or a hardware store or big-box retailer.

Some BMW key fobs come with the Display Key that increases the number of functions your car is able to be driven using the key. You can determine if the doors are locked, plan when the air conditioning should be turned on and even monitor the level of your fuel from up to 1000 feet away.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Side Mirrors Folding

Key fobs today are more sophisticated than ever. They do more than just lock and unlock doors or allow you to start your car remotely. Depending on the model, it might be able to make chirping sounds that assist you in finding your car in a parking lot or serve as an audio remote to control your car's radio stations.

One of the most useful hidden functions is found on a few modern models that allow you to reduce all windows at once by pressing an icon on your key fob. This is ideal on a hot summer's day when your air conditioner just can't keep up. The sequence of buttons that activate the feature isn't always clearly labeled as such, so you may need to test a few different combinations until you discover one that works with your vehicle.

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

Do you share your car with an amiable giant or someone who isn't as long of legs as you? You might want to look into a car with a key fob that allows you to set the seat memory. Some models, like those from GMC will allow you to set up a seat preference and automatically remember it every time you start the car.

Keyless Entry Fobs that connect to Bluetooth

Criminals are now able take cars away easily due to the growing popularity of smartphones with car access and smart keys. Wireless protocols that these systems use can be hijacked by criminals who can spoof the signal from the key fob or smartphone to open and start your vehicle.

A key fob is a small device that can be programmed to function as a hardware token. It offers one-factor authentication on the device to enable access to physical objects like a car, computer system, restricted space or mobile device or room. The fob sends 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 supports two-factor and multiple-factor authentication (2FA and MFA) to provide added security. This is usually accomplished by adding biometric verification to the equation. For instance fingerprint or iris, or even a voiceprint can be used.

Kwikset Kevo proximity keyless locks let users unlock their doors with a smartphone or Bluetooth-enabled fob. This eliminates the need for traditional keys. These systems are popular with business owners because they allow administrators to manage access of users and onboard new employees without having to change locks or distribute keys cards.