Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs have been a long way since their initial use as decorative trinkets. Today, they can accomplish everything from locking and unlocking doors to starting the car remotely. Some have hidden features that the owners may not be aware of.

If your car's key fob starts being a bit shaky, it's time to replace the battery. It's an easy task.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

Key fobs do more than unlock and start cars. It's also a burglar deterrent and security device. Modern day fobs are easy to use strong, durable, and more secure than ever. But their high cost can make them expensive to replace in the event of losing or break one.

A basic keyfob could cost a few dollars however, it could cost upwards of $200 to program. These costs are higher for vehicles that have high-end options or features. Some basic warranties or insurance coverage plans may cover the cost of the replacement fob, however the majority of people have to shell out hundreds out of pocket in the event of needing to get their fob fixed.

Some of the latest vehicles include an accessory key fob that can be used as a smart-key. These fobs are able to lock, unlock and arm an alarm with a press of one button. They can also summon your car, much like Tesla's summon function. But they must be within the range of the vehicle to function.

The fobs that are of this type include an iron key that folds into the fob in the same way as a switchblade knife. A spring keeps the key tucked inside when it's not in use and allows you to take it out with the press of a key to access the vehicle. A switchblade fob generally costs roughly the same amount as a standard key fob which comes with an iron key.

Keyless Entry Fobs with an invisible physical key

Many modern key fobs offer more functions than simply unlocking and starting the car. Modern models can do anything from roll down windows to call the vehicle, and even auto-parking. Some of these functions aren't useful for your daily commute, but they could be extremely useful in certain circumstances.

Some key fobs contain keys that are physical, typically in the form of a flat metal blade. The keys are kept in a small slot inside the fob, or they can be removed by pressing a button on the base of the key fob. A spare key can be useful when you are in a rush to get to your BMW and have lost your key.

The battery in your key fob is bound to fail at the time, and that could cause a lot of pain in the neck. Fortunately that replacing the battery of your key fob is easy and cost-effective. You can buy a replacement mini key fob from your dealer, a seller from a third party such as BimmerTech, or a hardware shop or big-box retailers.

Certain BMW key fobs come with the Display Key that allows you to control your car using the key. You can check if your doors are locked and schedule when the air conditioner will be on. You can even check the level of fuel up to 1,000ft away.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Folding Side Mirrors

Key fobs today are more sophisticated than ever. They can do more than simply lock and unlock doors or allow you to start your car remotely. It could also make chirping noises to assist you in finding your car in a parking lot or serve as a remote audio control that can control the radio stations in your car.

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 great during a hot summer day when the air conditioning doesn't do the job. You may need to try several combinations before you find the one that works in your car.

If you're one of those who likes tight spaces, the key fob on some newer Chevrolet and GMC vehicles can help out by automatically folding the vehicle's side mirrors when 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 a car with someone who is a gentle giant, or doesn't appear to have the same length legs as you do? You might want to look for a vehicle with an ignition keyfob that lets the setting of a memory seat. Certain models, like GMC, 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

Criminals can now steal cars with ease thanks to the growing popularity of smartphones with access to cars and smart keys. These systems rely on wireless protocols that are vulnerable to hijacking. Criminals can use spoofing signals from your phone or key fob to unlock and start your car.

A key fob is a small key fob that is programmable in hardware and offers one-factor authentication on the device to allow access to physical objects such as a car, computer system, restricted zone or room or mobile device. The fob transmits wireless signals to a sensor that recognizes the data and commands, and performs predetermined functions such as locking or unlocking.

In many instances the key fob may also be used as a security token. It supports two-factor and multiple-factor authentication (2FA and MFA) to offer additional security. This is usually accomplished by adding biometric verification to the equation. For instance fingerprints or iris, or even a voiceprint could be used.

Keyless proximity lock systems such as the Kwikset Kevo allow users to open their doors using smartphones or a Bluetooth-enabled key fob, eliminating the need for a traditional key. These types of locks are popular with business owners since they make it easy for administrators to integrate new employees and manage access for their users without the need to alter the locks or distribute keys.