Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs have changed a lot from their beginnings as decorative trinkets. Today, they can do everything from locking and unlocking doors to start cars remotely. Some have hidden features that owners might not know about.

If your car's key fob starts acting up, it's probably time to replace the battery. The good part is that the task is fairly simple.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob can do a lot more than simply unlock and start the car. It's also a theft deterrent and security device. Modern-day fobs are more convenient, powerful, and more secure than ever. Their pricey nature can make it expensive to replace them if you lose or break one.

A basic keyfob may cost only a few dollars however, it can cost more than $200 to program. The costs can be even more for vehicles that are of high-end or that have special features. A few basic insurance plans or warranties can provide a replacement key fob. However, most people will have to pay hundreds of dollars out of their own pockets in the event that this occurs.

Some of the latest vehicles come with an accessory key fob that can be used as an intelligent key. They can lock, unlock, and activate an alarm with the pressing of a button. They can summon your car, like Tesla's summon function. But they must be within range of the vehicle to function.

This kind of fob has an aluminum lock that folds into the fob like the switchblade. The key is kept in place when not in use using a spring. It can be removed with a push of the button. A switchblade fob typically costs around the same price as a standard key fob which comes with metal keys.

Keyless Entry Fobs that have an invisible physical key

Modern key fobs offer more than the ability to unlock and start a car. Modern models can do everything from lowering the windows to call the vehicle or even park it automatically. Certain of these features aren't useful for your daily commute, but they can be extremely helpful in certain situations.

Some mini key replacement fobs come with keys that are hidden within them, usually in the form of a flat metal key blade. These keys can be stored in a small compartment within the key fob, or removed by pressing the button on the base. A spare key is helpful when you're on the run to get to your BMW and you've lost your key.

It is inevitable that the battery in the key fob will fail at some time. This could be a real pain in the neck. Fortunately replacement of the battery in your key fob is easy and cost-effective. You can buy an alternative battery from a dealer, BimmerTech or a big-box retailer or hardware store.

Certain BMW key fobs have the Display Key that lets you control your car using the key. You can check whether the doors are locked, plan when the AC should be on, and even view your fuel level from up to 1000 feet away.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Folding Side Mirrors

Key fobs today are more advanced than ever. They can do more than lock and unlock the doors or remotely start the car. Depending on the model, it can also make chirping sounds to help you find your car in a parking area or as an audio remote to control your car's radio stations.

Some of the latest models have a hidden function that lets you reduce the windows instantly at the touch of a button. This is ideal on a hot summer day when the air conditioning doesn't completely complete the task. You may need to try several combinations before you get the one that is effective in 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 after 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 car that you share with a gentle giant or someone who doesn't have the same legs as you? You might want to search for a car that has the key fob that lets the setting of a memory seat. Some models, such as GMC, GMC allow you to set an individual preference for your seat and the car will remember it every time you start it.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Keyless Entry that connect to Bluetooth

Criminals are now able to steal cars with ease thanks to the rise of smartphones for access to cars and smart mini keys. These systems make use of wireless protocols that are vulnerable to being hijacked. Criminals can use spoofing signals from your key fob or phone to unlock the car and then start it.

Key fobs are small electronic token that is programmable and provides on-device, one-factor authentication to facilitate access to physical objects such as a vehicle, computer system, restricted zone or room or mobile device. The fob sends wireless signals to the sensor that recognizes and executes predetermined commands.

In many instances, the key fob can also be used as an additional security token. It supports two-factor and multiple-factor authentication (2FA and MFA) to offer additional security. This is usually done by adding biometric verification to the equation. For instance fingerprints, iris or voice print can be used.

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 requirement for a traditional key. These types of systems are popular among business owners, as they make it relatively simple for administrators to onboard new employees and manage access for users without the need to change locks or distribute key cards.