Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs
Key fobs are no longer only decorative trinkets. Today, they can accomplish everything from locking and unlocking doors to starting the car remotely. Some of them have hidden features that drivers might not be aware of.
If your car's key fob begins malfunctioning, it's time to replace its battery. The good news is that the process is fairly simple.
Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs
A key fob does much more than unlock and start the car. It also serves as a security device and deterrent to theft. Modern-day fobs are more convenient strong, durable, and more secure than ever. Their high price could make it costly to replace them in the event that you break or lose one.
A basic key fob may only cost a few dollars to purchase however, having it programmed will cost you more than $200. These costs are higher for vehicles with high-end features or extra features. A few basic warranties or insurance coverage programs might provide a replacement fob, but the majority of people will have to shell out hundreds out of pocket when they need to have their fob fixed.
Certain newer vehicles include the fob of a key that can be used as a smart-key. The fobs can be used to be locked, unlocked, and arm an alarm with a press of a button. They could even summon your car like Tesla's summon feature, however, they must be in range of the vehicle to operate.
Fobs of this type contain a metal key that folds into the fob like a switchblade knife. The key is tucked away when not in use thanks to springs. It can be removed with the push of an button. A switchblade fob is priced around the same as a key fob with a metal keys.
Keyless Entry Fobs with a hidden physical key
Modern key fobs provide more than just the capability to unlock and start a vehicle. Modern models can do anything from rolling down windows to summon the vehicle and even auto-parking. While some of these nifty functions might not be beneficial during your commute, they can be incredibly beneficial in certain circumstances.
Certain key fobs contain a physical key hidden within them, usually in the form of a flat, metal key blade. The keys are kept in a tiny slot inside the fob, or they can be removed by pressing a button located at the bottom of the key fob. A spare key is helpful for when you're in a rush to get to your BMW and have lost your key.
The battery in your key fob is bound to die at the time, and that can be a major headache for you. Fortunately, replacing the battery of your key fob is simple and inexpensive. You can buy an alternative battery from your dealer, BimmerTech or a big-box retailer or hardware store.
Some BMW key fobs come with the Display Key that lets you control your car with the key. You can verify whether the doors are locked, plan when the air conditioner should be turned on and even monitor your fuel level from up to 1000ft away.
Keyless Entry Fobs with Folding Side Mirrors
Key fobs of today are loaded with more modern electronics than ever before, and this small plastic device can do a lot more than lock or unlock doors and allow you to start your car remotely. It may also make chirping noises to assist you in finding your car in the parking lot or serve as an audio remote control to control the radio stations in your car.
Some of the latest models include a hidden feature that lets you lower the windows at the touch of a button. This is ideal for a hot summer's day when your air conditioner isn't able to keep up. The button sequence to activate the feature isn't always clearly labeled however, so you may have to test a few different combinations until you discover one that works with your car.
If you prefer to keep your car in a tiny space, the key fobs of newer Chevrolet or GMC vehicles will automatically fold the side mirrors of the vehicle after you lock it. Simply press TheKeyLab on the fob for a full two seconds to enable 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? Then you might want to look into a car with a key fob that lets you to set the seat memory. Certain models, like GMC, GMC allow you to set a seat preference, and the car will be able to remember it each time you start it.
Keyless Entry Fobs that have a Bluetooth Connection
With the popularity of smart keys and smartphone access to cars criminals have been offered an easy chance to take vehicles. These systems use wireless protocols that are susceptible to being hijacked. Criminals can spoof signals from your phone or key fob to unlock the car and then start it.
A key fob, tiny hardware token that is programmable, provides one-factor authentication on the device to facilitate access to physical objects such as a vehicle, computer system, restricted room or 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 can also be used as an additional security token. It supports two-factor or multiple-factor authentication (2FA and MFA) to offer additional security. This is typically done by adding biometric verification to the equation. For instance, a fingerprint, iris or voice print can be used.
Kwikset Kevo proximity keyless locks permit users to open their doors using smartphones, or a Bluetooth-enabled fob. This means that there is no need for traditional keys. These systems are a favorite among business owners due to the fact that they make it simple for administrators to manage access of users and onboard new employees without having to change locks or distribute keys cards.