Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs are no longer just a decorative trinket. They can now do everything from locking and unlocking doors to starting the car remotely. Some of them have hidden features that owners might not know about.

If your car's key fob begins acting up, it's probably time to replace its battery. It's a relatively simple job.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob can be used to do more than just unlock the car and start it. It also functions as a security device and deterrent to theft. Modern day key fobs that are high-tech are more powerful, convenient and secure than they have ever been. But their high cost could cause them to be expensive to replace in the event of losing or break one.

A basic keyfob may cost only a few dollars however, it can cost upwards of $200 to program. These prices are higher for vehicles with high-end features or other special features. Certain basic warranties or insurance coverage programs can cover the cost of a replacement mini cooper key fob, but the majority of people have to shell out hundreds out of pocket when they need to have their device repaired.

Some of the latest vehicles have a key fob that can be used as an intelligent key. These fobs are able to lock, unlock, or arm an alarm at the pressing of a button. They can even summon your car like Tesla's summon feature, but they have to be in proximity to the vehicle in order to be effective.

The fobs that are of this type include a metal key that folds into the fob, much like a switchblade knife. The key is tucked away when not being used by springs. It can be removed by pressing the button. A switchblade fob typically costs roughly the same amount as a standard key fob with an iron key.

Keyless Entry Fobs with a Hidden Physical Key

Many modern key fobs offer more functions than simply unlocking and starting an automobile. Modern models can do anything from rolling down windows to call the vehicle and even auto-parking. While some of these handy features might not be necessary for your daily commute however, they can be extremely useful in certain situations.

Some key fobs come with keys that are physical, typically in the form a flat blade of metal. These keys can be stored inside a small compartment of the key fob or removed by pressing the button on the base. If you're in a hurry to get to your car, and you forget your key or you wish to be in a position to start your BMW with push-to-start functionality, having an extra key may help.

It is inevitable that the battery inside your keyfob will die at some time. This could be an absolute neck pain. Fortunately replacing the key fob battery is simple and inexpensive. You can buy an additional battery from your dealer, BimmerTech or a big-box retailer or hardware store.

Some BMW key fobs include the Display Key that increases the number of functions your car can be driven with the key. You can verify if the doors are locked and schedule when the air conditioning will start. You can even view the level of fuel up to 1,000ft away.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Folding Side Mirrors

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

One of the most useful hidden features is found on a few newer models that allow users to shut down all windows instantly by pressing a button on your key fob. This is a great feature to have during a hot summer day when the air conditioning doesn't quite get the job done. The sequence of buttons to activate the feature isn't always labeled and you might have to play around with different combinations until you find one that works for your vehicle.

If you're one of those who likes tight spaces the key fobs on some newer Chevrolet and GMC vehicles can help you out by automatically folding the vehicle's side mirrors after you lock the car. To enable this feature, press the "lock button" on the fob and hold it for a full 2 seconds.

Do you share your car with the gentle giant or someone who isn't as long of legs as you? You might want to search for a vehicle with the key fob that lets you set a memory seat. Certain models, like GMC, GMC allow you to set a seat preference, and the car will remember it every time you start it.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Bluetooth Connection. Bluetooth Connection

With the popularity of smart keys and smartphones for car access criminals have gained an opportunity to steal cars. These systems make use of wireless protocols that are prone to being hijacked. Criminals can steal signals from your phone or key fob to unlock and start your car.

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

In many cases it is also an security token that can support multi-factor or two-factor authentication (2FA or MFA) methods to offer more security. This is usually accomplished by adding biometric verification to the equation. For instance fingerprints voice print, iris or fingerprint could 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, eliminating the need for a traditional key. These systems are a favorite among business owners due to the fact that they make it simple for administrators to manage access of users and onboard new employees without having to change locks or distribute keys cards.