Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs have been a long way since their beginnings as decorative trinkets. They can now accomplish everything from locking and unlocking doors to start the car remotely. Some even have extra features that the owners may not know about.

Replace the battery in case your key fob doesn't work anymore. The good news is that the job is comparatively simple.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob does much more than just unlock the car and start it. It is also a theft deterrent and security device. Modern-day fobs are more convenient strong, durable, and more secure than ever. However, their price could make them costly to replace if you lose or break one.

A basic keyfob can cost a few bucks however, it can cost upwards of $200 to program. These costs are higher for vehicles that are of high-end or equipped with extra features. Certain insurance programs or warranties may cover the cost for a replacement key fob. However, the majority of people will need to pay hundreds of dollars from their pockets if this occurs.

Certain newer cars include a fob that can also function as a smart key. These fobs are capable of locking, unlocking, and arming an alarm by pressing a button. They can even summon your car like Tesla's summon feature, but they have to be within range of the vehicle for them to be effective.

This kind of fob has an aluminum lock that folds into the fob, similar to a switchblade. The key is kept in place when not in use using springs. You can take it out with a push of an button. A switchblade fob generally costs approximately the same as the standard key fob that comes with metal keys.

Keyless Entry Fobs that have a hidden physical key

Modern key fobs come with more functions than simply unlocking and starting an automobile. Modern models can do everything from rolling down windows to call the vehicle or even park it automatically. Some of these features aren't suitable for your everyday commute, but they could be extremely useful in certain circumstances.

Some key fobs have an actual key within them, usually in the form of a flat metal key blade. These keys can be stored in a small compartment inside the key fob, or removed by pressing the button located on the base. A spare key for mini cooper key is helpful if you are on the run to get to your BMW and you've forgotten your key.

The battery inside your key fob is likely to go out at the time, and that can be a major discomfort for neck. The battery for your key fob could be replaced easily and inexpensively. You can purchase the replacement key for a mini cooper battery from your dealer, BimmerTech or a big-box retailer or hardware store.

Some BMW key fobs also come with the Display Key that lets you control your car from the key. You can verify if the doors are locked, and also schedule when the air conditioner will be on. You can also see the fuel level up to 1,000 feet away.

Keyless Entry Fobs With Side Mirrors that Fold

The key fobs of today are more sophisticated than ever. They can do more than just lock and unlock doors or start the car remotely. Depending on the model, it can be able to make chirping sounds that help you locate your car in a parking space or be used as an audio remote to control your car's radio stations.

One of the most useful hidden functions is available on modern models that allow you to reduce all windows at once by pressing a button on your key fob. This is a great feature for hot summer days when your air conditioner can't keep up. It's possible to test several combinations before you discover the one that works for your car.

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

Do you have a car that you share with someone who is gentle or 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 allows you to set a seat memory. Some models, like the ones from GMC can allow you to create an individual seat preference and then automatically remember it every time you turn on the car.

Keyless Entry Fobs that Connect to Bluetooth

With the rise of smart mini keys and smartphones for access to cars criminals have had an opportunity to steal vehicles. These systems utilize wireless protocols that are vulnerable to being hijacked. Criminals can use spoofing signals from your phone or key fob to unlock the car and then start it.

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

In a lot of cases keys are also a security token which supports two-factor or multi-factor authentication (2FA or MFA) methods to offer more security. This is typically done by adding biometric authentication to the equation, which can include a fingerprint scan, iris scan or voice print, for example.

Proximity keyless lock systems like the Kwikset Kevo allow users to access their doors with an iPhone or Bluetooth-enabled key fob, removing the requirement for a traditional key. These types of systems are popular among business owners since they make it easy for administrators to welcome new employees and manage access for users without having to change locks or distribute key cards.