Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

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

If your car's key fob starts malfunctioning, it's time to replace the battery. It's an easy task.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob is more than unlock and start a car. It also functions as a security device and also a deterrent against theft. Modern day fobs are easy to use and powerful, as well as more secure than ever. But their high cost can make them costly to replace in the event of losing or break one.

A basic key fob might only cost a few bucks to purchase however programming it will cost you more than $200. These prices are higher for vehicles with premium options or features. Some basic insurance programs or warranties can provide the replacement mini cooper key of a key fob. However, most people will need to pay hundreds of dollars from their own pockets in the event that this happens.

Certain vehicles of recent years also have the fob of a key that can be used as smart-keys. These fobs are able to lock, unlock, or activate an alarm with the pressing of one button. They can also summon your car like Tesla's summon feature but they have to be in range of the vehicle to function.

The type of fob that you have is a metal lock that folds inside the fob, much like the switchblade. The key is hidden when not in use thanks to springs. You can take it out by pressing the button. A switchblade fob costs roughly the same as a key fob with a metal key.

Keyless Entry Fobs with a hidden physical key

Many modern replacement mini cooper key fobs offer more functions than simply unlocking and starting a car. Newer models can do everything from rolling down windows to summoning your vehicle and even auto-parking. While some of these nifty functions may not be useful for your daily commute however they can be helpful in certain situations.

Some key fobs include an actual key hidden in them, usually in the shape of a flat metal key blade. The keys can be put in a small compartment inside the key fob, or removed by pressing the button located on the base. If you're trying to get to your vehicle and you've forgotten your keys or want to be in a position to start your BMW with push-to-start capabilities, having a spare key can come in handy.

It is inevitable that the battery in your keyfob will degrade at some time. This could be an absolute discomfort for the neck. The battery for your key fob could be replaced easily and inexpensively. You can purchase an alternative battery from a dealer, BimmerTech or a big-box retailer or hardware store.

Certain BMW key fobs come with a Display Key that allows you to control your car with the key. You can see if the doors are locked, schedule when the air conditioner should be turned on and even monitor the level of your fuel at up to 1000 feet.

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 allow you to start your car remotely. Depending on the model, it might also emit chirping sounds to aid you in finding your car in a parking area or be used as an audio remote to control the radio stations.

One of the most useful hidden features is found on a few modern models that allow you to reduce all windows immediately by pressing an icon on your key fob. This is ideal for hot summer days when your air conditioner isn't able to keep up. The sequence of button presses to activate the feature isn't always clearly labeled as such, so you may need to experiment with a few different combinations until you discover one that works for your car.

If you want to keep your vehicle in a smaller space, the fob on some newer Chevrolet or GMC vehicles will automatically fold the side mirrors of the vehicle when you lock it. To enable this feature, just press the "lock button" on the fob and hold it for a full 2 seconds.

Do you have a passenger in your car who is a gentle giant, or doesn't appear to have as long legs as you do? You might want to search for a car that has the key fob that lets the setting of a memory seat. Certain models, such as the ones from GMC will allow you to create the seat you prefer and automatically remember it each time you turn on the car.

Keyless Entry Fobs that have a Bluetooth Connection

With the increasing popularity of smart keys and smartphone car access criminals have been offered an easy way to steal cars. Wireless protocols that these systems use can be hijacked by criminals who can spoof the signal of the key fob or smartphone to unlock and start your vehicle.

A key fob, which is a small programmable hardware token can be used to provide one-factor authentication on the device to allow access to physical objects, such as vehicles, computers restricted space or room, or mobile device. The fob sends wireless signals to the sensor, which can recognize and execute predetermined commands.

In many instances it is also an security token that can support multi-factor or two-factor authentication (2FA or MFA) methods to offer more security. This is typically accomplished by adding biometric authentication to the equation. This can be a fingerprint scan or iris scan, or even a voice print, for example.

Keyless proximity lock systems such as the Kwikset Kevo allow users to access their doors with a smartphone or a Bluetooth-enabled key fob, removing the need for a traditional key. These systems are popular among business owners because they enable administrators to manage access of users and onboard new employees without needing to change locks or distribute keys cards.