Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs
Key fobs have come a long way from their beginnings as decorative trinkets. They can now perform everything from locking and unlocking doors to starting cars remotely. Certain models have hidden features that drivers might not be aware of.
If your car's key fob begins acting up, it's probably time to replace its battery. The good part is that the task is relatively easy.
Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs
Key fobs do much more than unlock and start cars. It also serves as a security device and theft deterrent. Modern-day key fobs with high-tech technology are more durable, convenient and secure than they have ever been. Their pricey nature can mean it is expensive to replace them if you break or lose one.
A basic key fob could only cost a few bucks to purchase however, having it programmed could cost more than $200. These prices are higher for vehicles that have high-end features or other special features. Some basic warranties or insurance coverage programs may cover the cost of a replacement fob, but the majority of people will have to shell out hundreds out of pocket for having theirs fixed.
Certain vehicles of recent years also come with a key fob that can be used as a smart-key. The fobs can be used for locking, unlocking, or activating an alarm with the press of one button. They can also summon your car, like Tesla's summon function. But they must be within range of the vehicle to function.
This type of fob contains an aluminum lock that folds into the fob, much like the switchblade. The key is hidden when not in use thanks to a spring. You can take it out by pressing the button. A switchblade fob is typically around the same price as the standard key fob that comes with the metal key.
Keyless Entry Fobs with Physical Key Hidden
Modern key fobs have more than just the ability to unlock and start a car. The latest models can do everything from rolling down windows to summoning the vehicle and even auto-parking. While some of these cool features may not be helpful for your daily commute but they can be useful in certain situations.
Some key fobs have an actual key hidden in them, usually in the shape of a flat metal key blade. The keys are kept in a small space inside the fob, or can be removed by pressing a button located at the bottom of the key fob. If you're in a rush to get to your vehicle and you forget your key or you'd like to be able to start your BMW using push-to-start, having an extra key can come in handy.
The battery inside the key fob is most likely to die at the time, and that can be a huge pain in the neck. Fortunately replacement of the battery in your key fob is easy and affordable. You can purchase a replacement from your dealer, a third-party seller like BimmerTech or a hardware store, or big-box retailers.
Some BMW key fobs come with the Display Key, which increases the number of functions your car is able to be driven using the key. You can check if the doors are locked and schedule when the air conditioner will turn on. You can also see the level of fuel up to 1,000 feet away.
Keyless Entry Fobs with Side Mirrors Folding
The key fobs of today are more sophisticated than ever. They can do more than lock and unlock the doors or allow you to start your car remotely. It may make chirping sounds to aid you in finding your car in the parking lot or as an audio remote control to control the radio stations in your car.
Certain models that are more modern come with a hidden feature that lets you lower the windows immediately with the press of a button. This is great during a hot summer day when the air conditioner can't seem to be able to complete the task. The sequence of button presses to activate the feature isn't always labeled, so you may have to experiment with different combinations until you've found one that works with your vehicle.
If you're one of those who likes tight spaces the key fob found in some newer Chevrolet and GMC vehicles can help out by automatically folding the side mirrors when you lock the car. Simply press the "lock" button on the fob for a full second to enable this feature.
Do you have a car that you share with a gentle giant or someone who doesn't have as long of legs as you? It might be a good idea to search for a car with keys that let you set a memory seat. Some models, like those from GMC will allow you to create a seat preference and automatically remember it every time you start up the car.
Keyless Entry Fobs with Keyless Entry that connect to Bluetooth
Criminals can now steal cars with ease thanks to the popularity of smartphone car access and smart keys. Wireless protocols that these systems use can be hijacked by criminals who are able to spoof the signal coming from the key fob or smartphone to unlock and start your car.
A key fob, small hardware token that can be programmed that provides one-factor authentication to the device to allow access to physical objects like a vehicle, computer system restricted space or room or mobile device. The fob transmits wireless signals to a sensing device, which recognizes the information as well as commands, and then performs the predetermined functions such as locking or unlocking.
In TheKeyLab , the key fob can 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 usually done by adding biometric authentication to the equation. This can include a fingerprint scan, iris scan or voice prints, for example.
Proximity keyless lock systems like the Kwikset Kevo allow users to open their doors using a smartphone or a Bluetooth-enabled key fob, eliminating the need for a traditional key. These kinds of locks are popular with business owners as they make it a breeze for administrators to integrate new employees and manage user access without having to change locks or distribute key cards.