Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs aren't only decorative trinkets. Today, they can accomplish everything from locking and unlocking doors to start cars remotely. Some have hidden features that drivers might not know about.

If your car's key fob starts being a bit shaky, it's time to replace its battery. It's an easy task.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob does more than just unlock and start cars. It also serves as a security device and also a deterrent against theft. Modern key fobs are more reliable, efficient and secure than ever. But their high cost could make them expensive to replace in the event of losing or break one.

A basic key fob may be a couple of dollars to purchase however, having it programmed could cost more than $200. These costs are more expensive when you have a vehicle with top-of-the-line features or extra features. A few basic insurance plans or warranties may provide a replacement key fob. However, the majority of people will need to pay hundreds of dollars out of their own pockets if this occurs.

Some newer vehicles also include an accessory key fob that can be used as a smart-key. The fobs can be used for locking, unlocking, and arming an alarm by pressing a button. They can even summon your car like Tesla's summon feature, however, they must be within range of the vehicle for them to function.

Fobs like this contain the key made of metal, which folds into the fob like a switchblade knife. A spring holds the mini key fob inside when not in use and you can take it out at the push of a button to access the vehicle. A switchblade fob costs roughly the same as a keyfob with a metal key.

Keyless Entry Fobs that have Physical Key Hidden

Modern key fobs offer more than just the capability to unlock and start a car. Modern models can do everything from lowering windows to summon the vehicle, and even auto-parking. While some of these cool functions may not be useful in your daily commute but they can be useful in certain scenarios.

Certain key fobs include keys that are physical, typically in the form a flat metal blade. The keys are kept in a small space inside the fob, or they can be removed by pressing a button at the bottom of the key fob. If you're in a hurry to get to your vehicle and you forget your key or want to be capable of starting your BMW with push-to-start capabilities, having an extra key could be helpful.

The battery in your key fob is likely to fail at some point, and that can be a major neck pain. The battery of your key fob can be replaced cheaply and easily. You can buy a replacement from your dealer, a seller from a third party such as BimmerTech or even a hardware store or big-box retailers.

Some BMW key fobs include a Display Key that allows you to control your car with the key. You can check if your doors are locked, and also schedule when the air conditioner will be turned on. You can even see the fuel level up to 1,000ft away.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Side Mirrors Folding

Key fobs of today are more advanced than ever. They do more than simply lock and unlock doors or remotely start the car. Depending on the model, it may also emit chirping sounds to help you locate 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 newer models that allow users to shut down all windows at once by pressing an icon on your key fob. This is perfect during a hot summer day when the air conditioner can't seem to be able to complete the task. It's possible to test a few combinations before you can find the one that works in your car.

If you're one of those who likes tight spaces keys in some of the newer Chevrolet and GMC vehicles can help you out by automatically folding the side mirrors once you have locked the vehicle. Simply press the "lock" button on the fob for a full two seconds to enable this feature.

Do you share your car with someone who is gentle or who doesn't have as long of legs as you? Then you might want to look into a vehicle with an electronic key fob that allows you to set the seat memory. Some models, like the ones from GMC, allow you to set up your preferred seat and automatically remember it each when you start the car.

Keyless Entry Fobs that have Bluetooth Connection. Bluetooth Connection

Criminals are now able to steal cars easily with the growing popularity of smartphones with car access and smart keys. These systems rely on wireless protocols that are prone to hijacking. Criminals can use spoofing signals from your phone or key fob to unlock and start your car.

Key fobs are small, programmable hardware token that offers one-factor authentication on the device to enable access to physical objects like a car, computer system, restricted area or room or mobile device. The fob transmits wireless signals to a sensor that recognizes the data as well as commands, and then performs the predetermined functions like locking or unlocking.

In many cases it is also a security token which supports multi-factor or two-factor authentication (2FA or MFA) methods to offer additional security. This is typically done by adding biometric authentication to the equation, which can include a fingerprint scan or iris scan, or even a voice print, for instance.

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