Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs have come a long way from their initial use as decorative trinkets. They can now perform everything from locking and unlocking doors to starting cars remotely. Some have hidden features that drivers might not know about.

Replace the battery if your key fob ceases to function. It's an easy task.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob does more than unlock and start an automobile. It also serves as a security tool and theft deterrent. Today's high-tech fobs are convenient and durable, and are more secure than ever. Their pricey nature can make it expensive to replace them if you lose or break one.

A basic key fob might cost just a few dollars to purchase however, having it programmed can set you back more than $200. Those costs are even higher for vehicles that are of high-end or with specific features. Certain insurance programs or warranties will cover the cost for a replacement key fob. However, most people will have to pay hundreds of dollars out of their own pockets if this happens.

Some of the latest vehicles include keys that can be used as an intelligent key. The fobs can be used to lock, unlock, and arm an alarm at the press of one button. They can also summon your car like Tesla's summon feature, but they have to be in range of the vehicle to function.

The type of fob you choose to use has a metal lock that folds in the fob like an ad-hoc switchblade. The key is tucked away when not in use using springs. You can remove it with the push of a button. A switchblade fob will cost you about the same as a key fob with a metal keys.

Keyless Entry Fobs that have an invisible physical key

Many modern mini key fob replacement fobs offer more features than just unlocking and starting an automobile. Newer models can perform everything from rolling down windows to summoning your vehicle and even auto-parking. While some of these cool functions might not be beneficial on your daily commute however they can be useful in certain situations.

Certain key fobs include a physical key, usually in the form of a flat metal blade. The keys can be put inside a small compartment of the key fob, or removed by pressing the button located on the base. If you're rushing to reach your car and you've forgotten your keys or you wish to be capable of starting your BMW using push-to-start, having a spare key can come in handy.

The battery inside your key fob is likely to die at some point, and that can be a major headache for you. The key fob battery can be replaced easily and inexpensively. You can purchase an additional battery from a dealer, BimmerTech or a big-box retailer or hardware store.

Some BMW key fobs come with a Display Key which expands the range of functions your car is able to be driven from the key. You can check whether the doors are locked, program when the air conditioning will be turned on and even monitor your fuel level from up to 1000ft away.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Side Mirrors That Fold

Key fobs of today are more advanced than ever. They do more than lock and unlock doors or even start the car remotely. Depending on the model, it can also make chirping sounds to assist you in finding your vehicle in a parking lot or be used as an audio remote to control your car's radio stations.

Some of the newer models have a hidden function that allows you to lower the windows at the touch of a button. This is ideal on a hot summer's day when your air conditioner can't keep up. The sequence of buttons to activate the feature isn't always identified, so you may have to play around with different combinations until you come across the one that is suitable for your vehicle.

If you're fond of tight spaces, the key fob in newer Chevrolet and GMC vehicles can help out by automatically folding the vehicle's side mirrors once you have locked the vehicle. Simply press the "lock" button on the fob for a full two seconds to activate this feature.

Do you share your car with a gentle giant or someone who just doesn't have the same length of legs as you? You might want to consider a vehicle with a key fob that allows you to set an automatic seat memory. Certain models, such as GMC's GMC can allow you to create your preferred seat and automatically remember it every when you start the car.

Keyless Entry Fobs with a Bluetooth Connection

With the rise of smart keys as well as smartphone mini car key access criminals have gained an easy chance to take vehicles. These systems make use of wireless protocols that are susceptible to being hijacked. Criminals can steal signals from your key fob or phone to unlock and start your car.

A key fob is a small device that can be programmed to function as a hardware token. It can be used on devices, with one-factor authentication to enable access to physical objects like a car computer system, restricted zone 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 a lot of cases it is also an security token that can support two-factor or multi-factor authentication (2FA or MFA) methods to offer more security. This is typically accomplished by adding biometric verification to the equation. For example fingerprints voice print, iris or fingerprint can be used.

Keyless locks that are proximity-based like the Kwikset Kevo allow users to access their doors with either a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone or key fob, removing the requirement for a traditional key. These types of systems are popular with business owners, as they make it fairly easy for administrators to welcome new employees and manage access for users without the need to change locks or distribute keys.