Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs
Key fobs have come a long way from their initial use as decorative trinkets. Today, they can do everything from locking and unlocking doors to start the car remotely. Certain models have hidden features that drivers might not be aware of.
Replace the battery if your key fob stops working. The good thing is that the task is pretty simple.
Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs
A key fob can do a lot more than unlock and start the car. It's also a burglar deterrent and security device. Modern day fobs are easy to use, powerful, and more secure than ever. Their high price can mean it is expensive to replace them if you break or lose one.
A basic keyfob might cost just a few dollars however, it could cost more than $200 to program. These costs are higher for vehicles with high-end options or features. Some basic insurance programs or warranties will provide an exchange key fob. However, the majority of people will need to pay hundreds of dollars out of their own pocket if this happens.
Some newer vehicles also come with the fob of a key that can be used as a smart-key. These fobs are able to lock, unlock and arm an alarm with a pressing of one button. They can even summon your car like Tesla's summon feature however, they must be within the range of the vehicle to function.
The type of fob you choose to use has a metal lock that folds into the fob, like the switchblade. A spring holds the key inside when it's not in use and allows you to take it out at the push of a key to access the vehicle. A switchblade fob is typically roughly the same amount as a standard key fob which comes with the metal key.
Keyless Entry Fobs with an invisible physical key
A lot of modern key fobs have more features than just unlocking and starting a car. Modern models can do everything from roll down windows to summon the vehicle or even park it automatically. While some of these clever features might not be necessary on your daily commute, they can be incredibly beneficial in certain circumstances.
Certain key fobs include a physical key, often in the form a flat metal blade. These keys are stored inside a small compartment within the fob, or can be removed when you press a button on the base of the key fob. An extra key is useful if you are on the run to get to your BMW and you've lost your key.
The battery inside the key fob is most likely to die at the time, and that can be a major pain in the neck. Fortunately, replacing the battery in your key fob can be simple and inexpensive. mini new key can purchase a new battery from your dealer, a seller from a third party such as BimmerTech, or even a hardware store or big-box retailers.
Certain BMW key fobs come with the Display Key, which increases the number of functions that can be driven using the key. You can verify if the doors are locked and schedule when the air conditioner will start. You can even view the fuel level up to 1,000ft away.
Keyless Entry Fobs with Folding Side Mirrors
Key fobs in the modern age are more sophisticated than ever. They can do more than lock and unlock doors or even start the car remotely. Depending on the model, it may also make chirping sounds to help you locate your car in a parking area or serve as an audio remote to control your car's radio stations.
Some of the latest models come with a hidden feature that allows you to lower the windows immediately with the push of a button. This is ideal on a hot day when the air conditioning doesn't completely complete the task. You may have to try a few combinations before you find the one that will work in your car.
If you're a lover of tight spaces the key fobs in some of the newer Chevrolet and GMC vehicles can help out by automatically folding the vehicle's side mirrors after you lock the car. Simply press the "lock" button on the fob for about a second to enable this feature.
Do you have a vehicle with someone who is a gentle giant, or doesn't appear to have as long legs as you do? If so, you may want to look into a vehicle with an electronic key fob that allows you to set the seat memory. Certain models, like GMC, GMC allow you to choose a seat preference and the car will remember it every time you start it.
Keyless Entry Fobs that connect to Bluetooth
Criminals have the ability to steal cars with ease due to the popularity of smartphone access to cars and smart keys. Wireless protocols that these systems use can be hijacked by criminals able to disguise signals from the key fob or smartphone to unlock and start your vehicle.
A key fob, a small programmable hardware token that provides one-factor authentication to the device that allows access to physical objects such as an automobile, 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 is also a security token that is compatible with multi-factor or two-factor authentication (2FA or MFA) methods to give you additional security. This is typically done by adding biometric authentication to the equation. This can be a fingerprint scan, iris scan or voice prints, for example.
Proximity keyless lock systems like the Kwikset Kevo allow users to access their doors with a smartphone or a Bluetooth-enabled key fob, eliminating the requirement for a traditional key. These systems are a favorite among business owners because they enable administrators to manage user access and onboard new employees without having to change locks or distribute keys cards.