Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs have changed a lot from their initial days as merely decorative trinkets. They can now do everything from locking and unlocking doors to starting a car remotely. Certain models have hidden features that the owners may not be aware of.

If your car's key fob begins getting a little agitated, it's time to replace mini key fob its battery. The good part is that the task is relatively easy.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob can do a lot more than simply unlock and start the car. It also serves as a theft deterrent and security device. Modern day key fobs that are high-tech are more efficient, practical, and secure than ever. Their high price can make it expensive to replace them in the event that you break or lose one.

A basic key fob could be a couple of dollars to purchase however programming it could cost more than $200. Those costs are even higher for luxury vehicles or those with special features. Certain basic warranties or insurance coverage programs may cover the cost of the replacement fob, however the majority of people will have to shell out hundreds of dollars if they need to get their fob repaired.

Some newer cars also come with a fob that functions as a smart keys. These fobs can lock, unlock, or arm an alarm with a press of one button. They could even summon your car like Tesla's summon feature but they have to be in range of the vehicle to function.

Fobs of this kind contain keys made of metal that fold into the fob like a switchblade knife. The key is tucked away when not in use thanks to springs. You can take it out by pressing the button. 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 Physical Key Hidden

Modern key fobs come with more features than just unlocking and starting the car. The latest models can do everything from rolling down windows to summoning the vehicle and even auto-parking. While some of these handy functions may not be useful for your daily commute but they can be beneficial in certain circumstances.

Some key fobs come with an actual key inside, usually in the shape of a flat key blade. These keys can be stored inside a small compartment of the key fob, or removed by pressing the button on the base. If you're in a rush to get to your car, and you've lost your keys, or if you want to be capable of starting your BMW by pushing the button, having an extra key may be helpful.

It is a given that the battery inside the key fob will fail at some point. This could be an enormous discomfort for the neck. Fortunately replacement of the battery in your key fob can be easy and affordable. You can get 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 come with the Display Key, which adds to the range of functions that your car can be driven using the key. You can check whether the doors are locked, schedule when the air conditioner should be turned on, and even check your fuel level at up to 1000 feet.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Folding Side Mirrors

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

One of the most useful hidden functions is found on a few modern models that allow users to shut down all windows at once by pressing a button on the key fob. This is ideal on a hot summer's day when your air conditioner just cannot keep up. The sequence of buttons to activate the feature isn't always clearly labeled however, so you may have to test a few different combinations until you've found the one that is suitable for your vehicle.

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

Do you share your car with a gentle giant or someone who just doesn't have as long of legs as you? It might be a good idea to search for a car with a keyfob that allows you to set a memory seat. Certain models, such as those from GMC can allow you to create a seat preference and automatically remember it each when you start the car.

Keyless Entry Fobs that have a Bluetooth Connection

Criminals have the ability to steal cars with ease thanks to the increasing popularity of smartphones for access to cars and smart keys. These systems rely on wireless protocols that are susceptible to hijacking. Criminals are able to spoof signals from your key fob or phone to unlock and start your car.

A key fob, tiny hardware token that is programmable offers one-factor authentication for the device to facilitate access to physical objects such as a vehicle, computer system and restricted areas, or mobile device. The fob transmits wireless signals to a sensing device, which recognizes the information as well as commands, and then performs the predetermined functions, such as locking or unlocking.

In a lot of cases the key fob may also be used as an additional security token. It supports two-factor and multiple-factor authentication (2FA and MFA) to provide additional security. This is usually accomplished 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 systems are a favorite among business owners due to their ability to allow administrators to manage access of users and onboard new employees without needing to change locks or distribute keys cards.