Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs are no longer only decorative trinkets. Today, they can do everything from locking and unlocking doors to starting cars remotely. There are some that have secret features that owners might not be aware of.

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

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob does much more than unlock and start the car. It also functions as a security tool and a deterrent to theft. Today's high-tech fobs are convenient strong, durable, and more secure than ever. Their high price could make it costly to replace them in the event that you break or lose one.

A basic key fob might be a couple of dollars to buy, but having it programmed could cost more than $200. The cost is higher when you have a vehicle with top-of-the-line options or features. Certain basic warranties or insurance coverage plans may pay for a replacement fob, but the majority of people pay out hundreds of dollars when they need to have their fob fixed.

Some newer cars also include a fob that can also function as a smart key for mini cooper. The fobs can be used for locking, unlocking and arming alarms by pressing the button. They can summon your car, like Tesla's summon function. However, they must be within range of the vehicle in order to function.

Fobs of this type contain the key made of metal, which folds into the fob just like a switchblade knife. A spring holds the key inside when not in use, and you can pop it out by pressing of a button for access to the vehicle. A switchblade key fob costs about the same as a key fob with metal key.

Keyless Entry Fobs that have a Hidden Physical Key

Modern key fobs have more than the ability to unlock and start a vehicle. The latest models can perform everything from rolling down windows to summoning the car and even auto-parking. Some of these features aren't ideal for your daily commute, but they could be extremely useful in certain circumstances.

Some key fobs contain the physical key, which is usually in the form of a flat blade of metal. The keys are stored inside a small compartment within the fob. They can be removed when you press a button on the base of the key fob. An extra key is useful if you are trying to get to your BMW and have lost your key.

It is a given that the battery inside your key fob will go out at some time. This could be a real pain in the neck. The battery for your key fob could be easily and cheaply replaced. You can purchase a new battery from your dealer, a third-party retailer such as BimmerTech or a hardware store or big-box retailers.

Certain BMW key fobs include the Display Key which expands the range of functions that can be driven using the key. You can verify if the doors are locked and schedule when the air conditioner should 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 of today are more advanced than ever. They do more than simply lock and unlock doors or even start the car remotely. It can also emit chirping sounds to help you locate your car in the parking lot or as an audio remote control to control the radio stations in your car.

Some of the latest models come with a hidden feature that lets you lower the windows instantly with the touch of a button. This is a great feature for a hot summer's day when your air conditioner just can't keep up. The sequence of buttons to activate the feature isn't always clearly labeled and you might have to play around with different combinations until you find one that fits your car.

If you want to keep your car in a compact space, the fob on some newer Chevrolet or GMC vehicles will automatically fold the side mirrors of the vehicle after 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 an amiable giant or someone who doesn't have the same length of legs as you? You might want to look for a car with keys that let the setting of a memory seat. Some models, like GMC's GMC can allow you to set up the seat you prefer and automatically remember it each time you start the car.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Bluetooth Connection. Bluetooth Connection

With the growing popularity of smart keys as well as smartphone car access criminals have gained an opportunity to steal cars. Wireless protocols that these systems use are vulnerable to hijacking by criminals who can spoof the signal from the key fob or smartphone to open and start your car.

A key fob, which is small hardware token that can be programmed that provides one-factor authentication to the device, allowing access to physical objects, such as an automobile, computer system restricted area or room or mobile device. The fob transmits wireless signals to a device which recognizes the information and commands, and performs predetermined tasks like locking or unlocking.

In many cases, the key fob can also be used as an additional security token. It can be used for two-factor or multiple-factor authentication (2FA and MFA) to give you additional security. This is usually done by adding biometric authentication to the equation, which can be a fingerprint scan or iris scan, or a voice print, for example.

Kwikset Kevo proximity keyless locks allow users to unlock their doors using smartphones or Bluetooth-enabled fob. This eliminates the need for traditional keys. These systems are a favorite among business owners due to their ability to enable administrators to manage access for users and onboard new employees without needing to change locks or distribute mini keys cards.