Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs
Key fobs aren't just decorative trinkets. They can do anything, from locking and unlocking doors to remotely starting the car. Some even have hidden features that owners may not be aware of.
Replace the battery in case your key fob isn't working. The good thing is that the task is relatively easy.
Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs
A key fob is more than unlock and start the car. It's also a theft deterrent and security device. Modern-day key fobs with high-tech technology are more reliable, efficient and secure than ever. But their high cost could make them expensive to replace in the event of losing or break one.
A basic keyfob could cost a few bucks however, it can cost more than $200 to program. These costs are higher for vehicles that are of high-end or with specific features. Certain basic warranties or insurance coverage programs may provide an replacement fob, but the majority of people pay out hundreds of dollars in the event of needing to get their device repaired.
Some newer vehicles also come with the fob of a key that can be used as an intelligent key. They can be locked, unlocked, and activate an alarm with the press of one button. They can summon your car, much like Tesla's summon function. But they must be within the range of the vehicle to function.
This type of fob contains the lock made of metal that folds inside the fob like a switchblade. The key is tucked away when not in use by a spring. You can take it out with a push of a button. A switchblade fob typically costs about the same as a standard key fob which comes with metal keys.
Keyless Entry Fobs with a physical key hidden
Many modern key fobs offer more features than just unlocking and starting cars. Newer models can perform everything from opening and closing windows to summoning the vehicle and even auto-parking. Certain of these features aren't suitable for your everyday commute but they can be extremely helpful in certain situations.
Certain key fobs include the physical key, which is usually in the form of a flat blade of metal. The keys are kept in a small slot inside the fob. keyless entry can be removed when you press a button on the base of the key fob. If you're in a rush to get to your car and you've lost your keys or you wish to be in a position to start your BMW by pushing the button, having an extra key may be useful.
The battery in your key fob is sure to fail at some point, and that can be a major discomfort for neck. Fortunately, replacing the battery in your key fob can be easy and affordable. You can buy a replacement from your dealer, a third-party vendor such as BimmerTech, or a hardware store, or big-box retailer.
Certain BMW key fobs also come with the Display Key that lets you manage your car via the key. You can check whether the doors are locked, set a timer when the AC should be turned on, and even check the level of your fuel up to 1000 feet away.
Keyless Entry Fobs with Folding Side Mirrors
Key fobs today are more sophisticated than ever. They do more than lock and unlock the doors or even start the car remotely. Depending on the model, it can also make chirping sounds to help you find your vehicle in a parking lot or serve as an audio remote to control your car's radio stations.
Some of the latest models include a hidden feature that lets you lower the windows instantly with the press of a button. This is a great feature to have on a hot day when the AC doesn't completely complete the task. The sequence of button presses to activate the feature may not be labeled as such, so you may need to experiment with a few different combinations until you've found the one that is suitable for your car.
If you're fond of tight spaces keys in newer Chevrolet and GMC vehicles can help you out by automatically folding the side mirrors after you lock the vehicle. 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 search for a car that has a keyfob that allows you to set a memory seat. Certain models, like those from GMC allow you to choose an individual preference for your seat, and the car will be able to remember it each time you start it.
Keyless Entry Fobs that Connect to Bluetooth
Criminals have the ability to steal cars easily with the increasing popularity of smartphones for access to cars and smart keys. These systems utilize wireless protocols that are susceptible to hijacking. Criminals can spoof signals from your key fob or phone to unlock and start the 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 an automobile, computer system restricted space or room or mobile device. The fob transmits wireless signals to the sensor which recognizes and executes predetermined commands.
In a lot of cases, the key fob can also be used as an additional security token. It supports two-factor or multiple-factor authentication (2FA and MFA) to give you additional security. This is usually accomplished by adding biometric verification to the equation. For instance, a fingerprint, iris or voice print can be used.
Kwikset Kevo proximity keyless locks allow users to unlock their doors using smartphones, or a Bluetooth-enabled fob. This eliminates the requirement for traditional keys. These types of systems are popular with business owners since they make it easy for administrators to integrate new employees and manage access for their users without having to change locks or distribute keys.