Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs have changed a lot from their initial days as merely decorative trinkets. They now have the ability to do everything from locking and unlocking doors to starting the car remotely. Some have secret features that owners might not know about.

Replace the battery in case your key fob doesn't work anymore. The good thing is that the task is relatively easy.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob does more than just unlock and start the car. It is also a theft deterrent and security device. Modern-day key fobs with high-tech technology are more reliable, efficient, and secure than ever. However, their high price can cause them to be expensive to replace in the event of losing or break one.

A basic key fob might only cost a few bucks to purchase, but having it programmed will cost you more than $200. Those costs are even higher for vehicles that are of high-end or that have special features. A few basic warranties or insurance coverage plans may pay for replacing a fob, but the majority of people will have to shell out hundreds out of pocket for having their fob repaired.

Some newer vehicles also come with keys that can be used as smart-keys. The fobs can be used for locking, unlocking, and activating an alarm with the press of the button. They can also summon your car, much like Tesla's summon function. However, they must be within the range of the vehicle to work.

The type of fob that you have is an aluminum lock that folds in the fob, similar to a switchblade. A spring holds the key inside when not in use, and you can pop it out with the click of a button to open the vehicle. A switchblade fob costs roughly the same as a key fob with metal key.

Keyless Entry Fobs that have a physical key hidden

Modern key fobs come with more functions than simply unlocking and starting a car. Modern models can do anything from lowering the windows to summon the vehicle or even park it automatically. Some of these features aren't suitable for your everyday commute but they can be extremely helpful in certain situations.

Some key fobs have keys that are physical, typically in the form of a flat metal blade. Keys can be placed in a small compartment within the key fob, or removed by pressing the button located on the base. A spare key can be useful when you're trying to get to your BMW and you've forgotten your key.

The battery in the key fob is most likely to die at some point. This can be a huge neck pain. The battery of your key fob can be easily and cheaply replaced. You can purchase the replacement battery from your dealer, BimmerTech or a big-box retailer or hardware store.

Certain BMW key fobs come with a Display Key, which can be used to enhance the number of functions that your car can be driven using the key. You can verify if the doors are locked and plan when the air conditioner is scheduled to turn on. You can even see the level of fuel up to 1,000ft away.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Side Mirrors Folding

The key fobs of today are more sophisticated than ever. They can do more than just lock and unlock the doors or even start the car remotely. It could also emit chirping sounds to assist you in finding your car when you are in a parking spot or act as an audio remote control to control the radio stations of your car.

Some of the newer models include a hidden feature that lets you reduce the windows instantly at the click of a switch. This is a great feature for a hot summer's day when your air conditioner just can't keep up. You may need to try several different combinations before you find the one that works in your car.

If you'd like to keep your car in a compact space, the key fob on some newer Chevrolet or GMC vehicles will automatically fold the side mirrors of the vehicle after you lock it. 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 simply doesn't have the same length legs as you do? You might want to search for a car with keys that let you set a memory seat. Certain models, like those from GMC permit you to set an individual preference for your seat and the car will be able to remember it each time you start it.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Keyless Entry that connect to Bluetooth

With the rise of smart keys and smartphone car access, criminals have been given an opportunity to steal vehicles. Wireless protocols used by these systems are susceptible to hijacking by criminals who can spoof the signal from the mini key fob fob or smartphone to unlock and start your vehicle.

A key fob, which is small, programmable hardware token that provides one-factor authentication to the device that allows access to physical objects such as a vehicle, computer system, restricted room or area, or mobile device. The fob transmits wireless signals to a sensing device, which is able to recognize the information and commands, and performs predetermined functions like locking or unlocking.

In many instances the key fob is also a security token which supports two-factor or multi-factor authentication (2FA or MFA) methods to offer additional security. This is usually accomplished by adding biometric verification to the equation. For instance fingerprint, iris or voice print can be used.

Keyless locks that are proximity-based like the Kwikset Kevo allow users to open their doors using an iPhone or Bluetooth-enabled key fob, eliminating the need for a traditional key. These systems are a favorite among business owners because they make it easy for administrators to manage user access and onboard new employees without needing to change locks or distribute keys cards.