Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs aren't just ornaments. They can now do everything, from locking and unlocking doors to starting the car remotely. Some have hidden features that the owners may not be aware of.

Replace the battery if your key fob stops working. It's a relatively simple job.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob can be used to do more than simply unlock and start the car. It's also a theft deterrent and security device. Today's high-tech fobs are convenient and durable, and are more secure than ever. However, their price could cause them to be expensive to replace if you lose or break one.

A basic keyfob could cost just a few dollars however, it could cost upwards of $200 to program. Those costs are even higher for vehicles that are of high-end or with specific features. A few basic warranties or insurance coverage programs can provide the replacement fob, however most people find themselves shelling out hundreds out of pocket in the event of needing to get their fob fixed.

Certain vehicles of recent years also include a key fob that can be used as smart-keys. These fobs are capable of locking, unlocking and arming an alarm by pressing a button. They could even summon your car as Tesla's summon feature, but they have to be in range of the vehicle for them to work.

Fobs of this type contain an iron key that folds into the fob just like a switchblade knife. The key is hidden when not in use thanks to springs. It is removed at the touch of the button. 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 offer more than the ability to unlock and start a vehicle. Modern models can do everything from rolling down windows to call the vehicle, and even auto-parking. While some of these handy functions may not be useful in your daily commute however they can be helpful in certain situations.

Some key fobs include an actual key hidden inside of them, typically in the shape of a flat metal key blade. Keys are stored inside a small compartment within the fob, or they can be removed when you press a button on the bottom of the key fob. If you're in a hurry to get to your car and you've forgotten your keys or you'd like to be capable of starting your BMW by pushing the button, having an extra key may help.

It is a given that the battery in your keyfob will die at some point. This could be an absolute neck pain. The battery in your key fob can be easily and cheaply replaced. You can buy a replacement from your dealer, a third-party vendor such as BimmerTech, or a hardware store, or big-box retailers.

Some BMW key fobs include the Display Key that lets you control your car with the key. You can verify if the doors are locked and schedule when the air conditioner is scheduled to start. You can also see the level of fuel up to 1,000ft away.

Keyless Entry Fobs With Side Mirrors That Fold

Key fobs in the modern age are more sophisticated than ever. They do more than just lock and unlock the doors or start the car remotely. Depending on the model, it may be able to make chirping sounds that help you find your car in a parking space or be used as an audio remote to control your car's radio stations.

One of the most useful hidden functions is available on modern models that allow you to lower all the windows instantly by pressing the button on your key fob. This is great on a hot summer's day when your air conditioner just cannot keep up. You may have to try a few combinations before you get the one that will work in your car.

If you're a fan of tight spaces keys in newer Chevrolet and GMC vehicles can help out by automatically folding the side mirrors when you lock the vehicle. To enable this feature, simply press the "lock button" on the fob and hold it for 2 seconds.

Do you have a passenger in your car who is a gentle giant or just doesn't seem to have the same length legs as you do? You might want to search for a car with the key fob that lets you set a memory seat. Certain models, such as the ones from GMC, allow you to create your preferred seat and automatically remember it each time you turn on the mini car keys.

Keyless Entry Fobs that have a Bluetooth Connection

Criminals are now able steal cars with ease due to the increasing popularity of smartphones for car access and smart keys. Wireless protocols that these systems use can be hijacked by criminals who can disguise signals from the key fob or smartphone to unlock and start your vehicle.

A key fob, small hardware token that can be programmed offers one-factor authentication for the device to facilitate access to physical objects, such as the vehicle, computer system restricted area or room, or mobile device. The fob sends wireless signals to the sensor, that recognizes and executes predetermined commands.

In a lot of cases, the key fob can also be used as an additional security token. It supports two-factor or multiple-factor authentication (2FA and MFA) to offer additional security. This is typically accomplished by adding biometric authentication to the equation. This can include a fingerprint scan or iris scan, or a voice print, as an example.

Keyless proximity lock systems such as the Kwikset Kevo allow users to access their doors with either a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone or key fob, removing the requirement for a traditional key. These types of locks are very popular with business owners since they make it relatively simple for administrators to onboard new employees and manage access for users without the need to change locks or distribute mini key replacement cards.