Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs have evolved a lot since their early days as decorative trinkets. Today, they can perform everything from locking and unlocking doors to starting cars remotely. Certain models have secret features that owners might not be aware of.

Replace the battery if your key fob isn't working. The good part is that the task is fairly simple.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob can be used to do more than unlock the car and start it. It also functions as a security tool and theft deterrent. Modern-day key fobs with high-tech technology are more powerful, convenient and secure than they have ever been. However, their price could make them costly to replace if you lose or break one.

A basic keyfob can cost a few bucks however, it could cost upwards of $200 to program. The cost is higher for vehicles that have high-end options or features. A few basic warranties or insurance coverage plans may provide replacing a fob, but the majority of people pay out hundreds of dollars if they need to get their device repaired.

Some newer vehicles also have the fob of a key that can be used as a smart-key. The fobs can be used to lock, unlock, or arm an alarm with the press of the button. They can even summon your car like Tesla's summon feature but they have to be within range of the vehicle to work.

Fobs like this contain an iron key that folds into the fob, much like a switchblade knife. The key is hidden when not in use thanks to a spring. You can remove it with a push of a button. A switchblade fob generally costs about the same as the standard key fob that comes with metal keys.

Keyless Entry Fobs that have an invisible physical key

A lot of modern key fobs have more functions than simply unlocking and starting a car. Modern models can perform everything from opening and closing windows to summoning the vehicle and even auto-parking. Some of these features aren't necessary for your daily commute but they can be extremely helpful in certain situations.

Some key fobs contain keys that are physical, typically in the form a flat blade of metal. Keys can be kept in a small compartment within the key fob, or removed by pressing the button on the base. If you're trying to get to your car, and you forget your key, or if you want to be able to start your BMW with push-to-start capabilities, having an extra key could help.

It is inevitable that the battery inside your key fob will go out at some point. This could be an absolute discomfort for the neck. The battery of your key fob can be replaced easily and inexpensively. You can get a mini replacement key from your dealer, a third-party vendor like BimmerTech or a hardware shop or big-box retailer.

Certain BMW key fobs also come with the Display Key that allows you to manage your car via the key. You can verify if the doors are locked, and also schedule when the air conditioner is scheduled to be on. You can also see the level of fuel up to 1,000ft away.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Folding Side Mirrors

Key fobs today are loaded with more advanced electronics than ever before, and this tiny plastic device can do a lot more than simply lock or unlock the doors and remotely start the car. Depending on the model, it could be able to make chirping sounds that assist you in finding your car in a parking lot or serve as an audio remote to control the radio stations.

Some of the latest models include a hidden feature that lets you reduce the windows instantly at the press of a button. This is a great feature to have on a hot day when the AC doesn't do the job. The sequence of buttons to activate the feature isn't always clearly labeled and you might have to experiment with different combinations until you discover one that fits your car.

If you'd like to keep your car in a compact space, the fobs on newer 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 minute to activate this feature.

Do you share a car with someone who is a gentle giant or just doesn't seem to have the same length legs as you do? You may want to look for a car that has keys that let you to set a memory seating. Certain models, such as those from GMC, allow you to create your preferred seat and automatically remember it each when you start the car.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Bluetooth Connection. Bluetooth Connection

Criminals are now able steal cars easily with the growing popularity of smartphones with access to cars and smart keys. These systems utilize wireless protocols that are vulnerable to stealing. Criminals can steal signals from your key fob or phone to unlock and start the car.

Key fobs are small key fob that is programmable in hardware and can be used on devices, with one-factor authentication to allow access to a physical object such as a vehicle, computer system, restricted area, room or mobile device. The fob transmits wireless signals to the sensor, which can recognize and execute predetermined commands.

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

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