Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs
Key fobs aren't just ornaments. They can now be used for everything from locking and unlocking doors to starting an automobile remotely. Certain models have hidden features that the owners may not be aware of.
If your car's key fob starts getting a little agitated, it's time to replace its battery. The good news is that the job is comparatively simple.
Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs
A key fob can do a lot more than simply unlock the car and start it. It's also a theft deterrent and security device. Today's modern fobs are practical and durable, and are more secure than ever. Their high cost can make it expensive to replace them in the event that you break or lose one.
A basic key fob may be a couple of dollars to purchase but programming it will cost you more than $200. These prices are higher when you have a vehicle with top-of-the-line options or features. A few basic warranties or insurance coverage programs may cover the cost of an replacement fob, but most people find themselves shelling out hundreds out of pocket in the event of needing to get their fob fixed.
Some of the latest cars have a fob which doubles as a smart key. These fobs are able to lock, unlock and arm an alarm with a press of one button. They could even summon your car like Tesla's summon feature but they have to be in reach of the vehicle to operate.
The type of fob that you have is an iron lock which folds up into the fob, similar to an ad-hoc switchblade. The key is tucked away when not in use thanks to a spring. It is removed at the touch of the button. A switchblade fob costs roughly the same as a key fob that has a metal keys.
Keyless Entry Fobs with an invisible physical key
A lot of modern key fobs have more functions than simply unlocking and starting an automobile. Modern models can do anything from lowering windows to summon the car, and even auto-parking. While some of these handy features might not be necessary for your daily commute, they can be incredibly helpful in certain situations.
Some key fobs come with a physical key hidden within them, usually in the shape of a flat key blade. Keys can be placed in a small compartment inside the key fob or removed by pressing the button located on the base. A spare key can be useful if you are trying to get to your BMW and you have forgotten your key.
The battery inside your key fob is likely to fail at some point, and that can be a major neck pain. Fortunately replacing the battery in your key fob can be easy and affordable. You can purchase an alternative battery from a dealer, BimmerTech or a big-box retailer or hardware store.
Some BMW key fobs include the Display Key which adds to the range of functions that your car can be driven using the key. You can determine if the doors are locked, program when the AC should turn on and even see your fuel level up to 1000 feet away.
Keyless Entry Fobs With Folding Side Mirrors
Key fobs of today are loaded with more modern electronics than ever before, and this plastic device can do a lot more than lock and unlock doors and also start the car remotely. It can also make chirping noises to assist you in finding your car in a parking lot or as a remote audio control to control the radio stations in your car.
One of the most useful hidden functions is found on a few modern models that permit you to minimize all windows instantly by pressing a button on the key fob. This is great on a hot day when the air conditioning doesn't quite get the job done. You may have to try several combinations before you can find the one that will work in your car.
If you're fond of tight spaces keys on some newer Chevrolet and GMC vehicles can help you out by automatically folding the side mirrors once you have locked the car. Simply press the "lock" button on the fob for about a second to activate this feature.
Do you have a passenger in your car who is a gentle giant or simply doesn't have the same length legs as you do? You might want to look into a car with a key fob that lets you to set a seat memory. Certain models, like those from GMC allow you to set your preferred seat and the car will remember it every time you start it.
Keyless Entry Fobs with Keyless Entry that connect to Bluetooth
With the increasing popularity of smart keys and smartphones for access to cars criminals have had an easy opportunity to steal cars. These systems utilize wireless protocols that are vulnerable to being hijacked. Criminals can steal signals from your key fob or phone to unlock the car and then start it.
A key fob is a small device that can be programmed to function as a hardware token. It allows on-device, one-factor authentication to allow access to physical objects like a car, computer system, restricted area or mobile device or room. The fob transmits wireless signals to a sensing device, which recognizes the information and commands, and performs predetermined tasks like locking or unlocking.
In mini car keys are also an security token that can support multi-factor or two-factor authentication (2FA or MFA) methods to offer additional security. This is typically done by adding biometric verification to the equation. For instance fingerprints voice print, iris or fingerprint can be used.
Keyless proximity lock systems such as the Kwikset Kevo allow users to open their doors using an iPhone or Bluetooth-enabled key fob, removing the need for a traditional key. These types of locks are very popular with business owners, as they make it a breeze for administrators to welcome new employees and control access to users without having to change the locks or distribute key cards.