Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs have changed a lot from their initial use as decorative trinkets. Today, they can accomplish everything from locking and unlocking doors to starting an automobile remotely. There are some that have secret features that owners might not be aware of.

If your car's key fob begins getting a little agitated, it's time to replace the battery. The good news is that the job is fairly simple.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob can do a lot more than unlock and start the car. It also functions as a security tool and also a deterrent against theft. Modern-day key fobs with high-tech technology are more efficient, practical and secure than they have ever been. But their high cost could cause them to be expensive to replace if you lose or break one.

A basic key fob might cost just a few dollars to purchase, but having it programmed could cost more than $200. These costs are higher for vehicles that are of high-end or with special features. Some basic warranties or insurance coverage plans may cover the cost of replacing a fob, but the majority of people have to shell out hundreds out of pocket for having their fob fixed.

Certain newer vehicles have an accessory key fob that can be used as smart-keys. These fobs are capable of locking, unlocking, and arming alarms by pressing a button. They can summon your car, similar to Tesla's summon function. However, they must be within the range of the vehicle in order to function.

The fobs that are of this type include a metal key that folds into the fob in the same way as a switchblade knife. The key is hidden when not in use using a spring. You can take it out by pressing an button. A switchblade fob is priced around the same as a key fob that has a metal keys.

Keyless Entry Fobs with a Physical Key Hidden

Modern key fobs offer more than just the ability to unlock and start a car. The latest models can do everything from rolling down windows, summoning the vehicle and even auto-parking. While some of these nifty functions may not be useful in your daily commute, they can be incredibly useful in certain scenarios.

Some key fobs include an actual key hidden inside of them, typically in the shape of a flat key blade. These keys are stored in a small slot inside the fob, and can be removed by pressing a button at the bottom of the key fob. If you're in a hurry to get to your car and you've lost your key or want to be in a position to start your BMW by pushing the button, having a spare key can be useful.

It is a given that the battery in the key fob will fail at some point. This can be a real headache for you. The battery of your key fob can be replaced easily and inexpensively. You can purchase the replacement battery from a dealer, BimmerTech or a big-box retailer or hardware store.

Certain BMW key fobs include the Display Key, which can be used to enhance the number of functions your car can be driven from the key. You can determine if the doors are locked, and also schedule when the air conditioning will be turned on. You can also see the fuel level up to 1,000ft away.

Keyless Entry Fobs With Side Mirrors That Fold

Key fobs of today are loaded with more modern electronics than ever, and this little plastic thingamajig does a lot more than lock or unlock the doors and remotely start the car. It could also emit chirping sounds to aid you in finding your car when you are in a parking spot, or be used as an audio remote control to control the radio stations in your car.

Some of the latest models come with a hidden feature that allows you to reduce the windows instantly at the touch of a button. This is a great feature for a hot summer's day when your air conditioner can't keep up. The sequence of button presses to activate the feature isn't always labeled, so you may have to test a few different combinations until you discover one that works with your car.

If you prefer to keep your vehicle in a smaller space, the fobs that are found on modern Chevrolet or GMC vehicles will automatically fold the side mirrors on the vehicle once you lock it. Simply press the "lock" button on the fob for a full second to enable this feature.

Do you share a car with someone who is a gentle giant or simply doesn't have the same length legs as you do? If so, you may want to consider a vehicle with a key fob that allows you to set a seat memory. Some models, such as those from GMC allow you to set your preferred seat and the car will remember it every time you start it.

Keyless Entry Fobs, that can be connected to Bluetooth

With the rise of smart keys and smartphone car access criminals have been offered an easy opportunity to steal cars. Wireless protocols used by these systems are vulnerable to hijacking by criminals who can disguise signals from the key fob or smartphone to open and start your car.

A key fob, which is tiny hardware token that is programmable, provides one-factor authentication on the device that allows access to physical objects, such as an automobile, computer system restricted space or room, or mobile device. The fob transmits wireless signals to a sensor which recognizes the information as well as commands, and then performs the predetermined functions such as locking or unlocking.

In a lot of cases mini cooper keys are also an security token that can support two-factor or multi-factor authentication (2FA or MFA) methods to give you additional security. This is typically accomplished by adding biometric authentication to the equation. This can include fingerprint scans or iris scan, or a voice print, as an example.

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 among business owners as they make it simple for administrators to manage user access and onboard new employees without having to change locks or distribute keys cards.