Hidden Features of mini key replacement Key Fobs

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

If your car's key fob begins acting up, it's probably time to replace its battery. The good news is that the job is relatively easy.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

Key fobs do more than just unlock and start a car. It is also a theft deterrent and security device. Modern-day fobs are more convenient and powerful, as well as more secure than ever. Their pricey nature can be costly to replace them if you break or lose one.

A basic key fob might cost just a few dollars to purchase, but having it programmed could cost more than $200. The costs can be even more for high-end vehicles or those with specific features. Some basic insurance programs or warranties can cover the cost for a replacement key fob. However, most people will need to pay hundreds of dollars out of their own pockets if this occurs.

Certain vehicles of recent years also include a key fob that can be used as smart-keys. These fobs can lock, unlock and arm an alarm with the press of one button. They can summon your car, much like Tesla's summon function. However, they must be within the range of the vehicle in order to work.

This type of fob contains an iron lock that folds into the fob, like an ad-hoc switchblade. A spring holds the key inside when not in use and you can take it out with the click of a button for access to the vehicle. A switchblade key fob costs about the same as a key fob with a metal keys.

Keyless Entry Fobs with a Hidden Physical Key

Modern key fobs provide more than just the capability to unlock and start a vehicle. Modern models can do anything from roll down windows to call the vehicle or even park it automatically. Some of these features aren't necessary for your daily commute, but they can be extremely helpful in certain circumstances.

Some key fobs have keys that are hidden within them, usually in the form of a flat, metal key blade. Keys can be placed in a small storage compartment inside the key fob or removed by pressing the button on the base. If you're trying to get to your vehicle and you forget your key or you wish to be capable of starting your BMW using push-to-start, having an extra key may come in handy.

The battery inside your key fob is likely to fail at some point. This can be a huge headache for you. The battery in your key fob can be replaced easily and inexpensively. You can buy the replacement battery from your dealer, BimmerTech or a big-box retailer or hardware store.

Some BMW key fobs come with a Display Key that allows you to manage your car via the key. You can determine if the doors are locked, program when the air conditioner should turn on and even see your fuel level up to 1000 feet away.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Side Mirrors Folding

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

Some of the latest models include a hidden feature that allows you to lower the windows at the touch of a button. This is ideal on a hot day when the air conditioning doesn't completely complete the task. The sequence of buttons that activate the feature isn't always clearly labeled and you might have to test a few different combinations until you've found one that works with your car.

If you'd like to keep your car in a compact space, the key fobs that are found on modern Chevrolet or GMC vehicles will automatically fold the side mirrors after you lock it. Simply press the "lock" button on the fob for a full two seconds to activate this feature.

Do you share your car with the gentle giant or someone who just doesn't have as long of legs as you? If so, you may want to look into a car with a key fob that allows you to set an automatic seat memory. Some models, such as those from GMC permit you to set your preferred seat and the car will remember it each time you start it.

Keyless Entry Fobs that Connect to Bluetooth

With the popularity of smart keys and smartphones for car access criminals have gained an easy way to steal cars. Wireless protocols used by these systems can be hijacked by criminals who are able to spoof the signal coming from the key fob or smartphone to unlock and start your vehicle.

A key fob is a small, programmable hardware token that allows on-device, one-factor authentication to facilitate access to physical objects like a car computer system, restricted space or room or mobile device. The fob sends wireless signals to the sensor, which is able to recognize and execute predetermined commands.

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

Kwikset Kevo proximity keyless locks allow users to unlock their doors with a smartphone or a Bluetooth-enabled fob. This eliminates the need for traditional keys. These systems are very popular with business owners because they make it simple for administrators to manage access for users and onboard new employees without having to change locks or distribute keys cards.