Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs
Key fobs have come a long way from their initial use as decorative trinkets. They now have the ability to do everything, from locking and unlocking doors to remote start of the car. Some even have a few extra features that the owners may not know about.
Replace the battery if your key fob isn't working. The good news is that the process is relatively easy.
Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs
A key fob does much more than simply unlock and start the car. It also serves as a theft deterrent and security device. Today's high-tech fobs are convenient, powerful, and more secure than ever. However, their price could cause them to be expensive to replace in the event of losing or break one.
A basic keyfob might cost a few bucks however, it could cost more than $200 to program. These costs are higher when you have a vehicle with top-of-the-line features or extra features. A few basic warranties or insurance coverage plans may cover the cost of a replacement fob, but most people find themselves shelling out hundreds of dollars in the event of needing to get their fob fixed.
Some of the latest cars come with a fob that can also function as a smart key. The fobs can be used to lock, unlock, and activate an alarm with the pressing of a button. They can even summon your vehicle like Tesla's summon feature, but they have to be within proximity to the vehicle in order to operate.
Fobs of this kind contain keys made of metal that fold into the fob just like a switchblade knife. A spring keeps the key tucked inside when not in use, and you can pop it out with the press of a button for access to the vehicle. A switchblade fob typically costs roughly the same amount as a standard key fob with an iron key.
Keyless Entry Fobs that have a Physical Key Hidden
Modern key fobs provide more than the ability to unlock and start a car. Modern models can do anything from roll down windows to summon the car, and even auto-parking. Certain of these features aren't necessary for your daily commute, but they could be extremely useful in certain situations.
Some key fobs have an actual key within them, usually in the form of a flat, metal key blade. The keys are stored inside a small compartment within the fob. They can be removed by pressing a button on the base of the key fob. If you're in a hurry to get to your vehicle and you forget your key, or if you want to be in a position to start your BMW by pushing the button, having a spare key can be helpful.
It is a given that the battery in your keyfob will die at some time. This can be an enormous neck pain. Fortunately that replacing the battery in your key fob can be simple and inexpensive. You can buy a replacement battery from a dealer, BimmerTech or a big-box retailer or hardware store.
Certain BMW key fobs include a Display Key that expands the range of functions your car is able to be driven from the key. You can determine if the doors are locked, program when the air conditioning should be turned on and even monitor your fuel level from up to 1000 feet away.
Keyless Entry Fobs With Side Mirrors that Fold
Key fobs of today are more advanced than ever. They do more than simply lock and unlock doors or allow you to start your car remotely. It can make chirping sounds to help you locate your car in a lot, or be used as an audio remote to control the radio stations in your car.
One of the most useful hidden features is available on modern models that allow you to lower all the windows immediately by pressing a button on the key fob. This is a great feature for hot summer days when your air conditioner can't keep up. You may have to test several different combinations before you can find the one that works in your car.
If you're a fan of tight spaces, the key fob in some newer Chevrolet and GMC vehicles can help you out by automatically folding the vehicle's side mirrors when you lock the car. To activate this feature, simply press the "lock button" on the fob and hold it for 2 seconds.
Do you have a car that you share with a gentle giant or someone who just doesn't have the same legs as you? You might want to consider a vehicle with a key fob that lets you to set a seat memory. Some models, like GMC's GMC can allow you to create a seat preference and automatically remember it each time you start the car.
Keyless Entry Fobs that have a Bluetooth Connection
With the popularity of smart keys and smartphone car access criminals have had an easy way to steal cars. Wireless protocols that these systems use are susceptible to hijacking by criminals who can spoof the signal coming from the key fob or smartphone 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 area, room or mobile device. The fob transmits wireless signals to the sensor, which recognizes and executes predetermined commands.
In a lot of instances, a key fob is also a security token that supports two-factor or multi-factor authentication (2FA or MFA) methods to give you additional security. This is typically accomplished by adding biometric verification to the equation. For instance, a fingerprint or iris, or even a voiceprint could be used.
Proximity keyless lock systems like the Kwikset Kevo allow users to open their doors using an iPhone or Bluetooth-enabled key fob, eliminating the requirement for a traditional key. These kinds of locks are very popular with business owners as they make it relatively simple for administrators to take on new employees and control access to users without having to change the locks or distribute keys.