Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs aren't just a decorative trinket. Today, they can be used for everything from locking and unlocking doors to starting an automobile remotely. Some even have hidden features that owners may not be aware of.

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

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob can be used to do more than simply unlock and start the car. It's also a burglar deterrent and security device. Modern-day fobs are more convenient 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 key fob could be a couple of dollars to purchase, but having it programmed will cost you more than $200. These prices are higher when you have a vehicle with top-of-the-line options or features. Some basic warranties or insurance coverage programs can pay for an replacement fob, but most people find themselves shelling out hundreds out of pocket if they need to get theirs fixed.

Some newer cars also include a fob that can double as a smart key. These fobs are able to lock, unlock, and activate an alarm with the press of the button. They can even summon your vehicle as Tesla's summon feature, however, they must be within range of the vehicle for them to be effective.

The type of fob you choose to use has the lock made of metal that folds inside the fob, similar to an ad-hoc switchblade. A spring holds the key inside when it's not in use and allows you to take it out at the push of a button to open the vehicle. A switchblade key fob costs about the same as a key fob with metal keys.

Keyless Entry Fobs with a Hidden Physical Key

Modern key fobs have more than just the capability to unlock and start a vehicle. The latest models can do everything from rolling down windows to summoning the vehicle and even auto-parking. While some of these cool features might not be necessary for your daily commute however, they can be extremely beneficial in certain circumstances.

Some key fobs include a physical key hidden inside, usually in the shape of a flat key blade. These keys can be stored inside a small compartment of the key fob or removed by pressing the button on the base. An extra key is useful when you are in a hurry to get to your BMW and have lost your key.

The battery inside your key fob is sure to go out at some point, and this can be a huge neck pain. The battery for your key fob could be replaced cheaply and easily. You can buy a replacement from your dealer, a third-party retailer such as BimmerTech or a hardware shop or big-box retailer.

Some BMW key fobs include a Display Key that adds to the range of functions that can be driven from the key. You can see if the doors are locked, program when the air conditioning will turn on and even see the level of your fuel from up to 1000 feet away.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Side Mirrors Folding

Key fobs today are more sophisticated than ever. They do more than lock and unlock the doors or remotely start the car. It could make chirping sounds that aid you in finding your car in a lot, or be used as an audio remote to control the radio stations of your car.

Some of the newer models come with a hidden feature that lets you lower the windows instantly with the push of a button. This is great for hot summer days when your air conditioner isn't able to keep up. The sequence of buttons that activate the feature isn't always clearly labeled and you might have to experiment with different combinations until you find one that works for your car.

If you're a fan of tight spaces the key fob found in newer Chevrolet and GMC vehicles can help you out by automatically folding the vehicle'mini cooper s replacement key side mirrors after locking the car. To enable this feature, just press the "lock button" on the fob and hold it for 2 seconds.

Do you share a car with someone who is a gentle giant or doesn't appear to have as long legs as you do? You might want to look into a vehicle with a key fob that lets you to set the seat memory. Some models, such as GMC, GMC allow 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, that can be connected to Bluetooth

With the popularity of smart keys as well as smartphone car access criminals have gained an easy opportunity to steal vehicles. Wireless protocols used by these systems can be hijacked by criminals who can spoof the signal of the key fob or smartphone to open and start your vehicle.

A key fob is a small, programmable hardware token that can be used on devices, with one-factor authentication for access to physical objects like a car computer system, restricted area or mobile device. The fob transmits wireless signals to the sensor, which is able to recognize and execute predetermined commands.

In many instances the key fob could also be used as a security token. It supports two-factor or multiple-factor authentication (2FA and MFA) to provide 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 locks that are proximity-based like the Kwikset Kevo allow users to open their doors using an iPhone or Bluetooth-enabled key fob, removing the need for a traditional key. These types of locks are popular with business owners because they make it a breeze for administrators to integrate new employees and manage access for their users without having to change the locks or distribute key cards.