Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs have come a long way from their initial use as decorative trinkets. They can now accomplish everything from locking and unlocking doors to starting cars remotely. Some have hidden features that owners might not know about.

If your car's key fob begins malfunctioning, it's time to replace the battery. It's a fairly simple task.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob can do more than unlock and replacement mini cooper key start an automobile. It also serves as a security device and also a deterrent against theft. Today's high-tech fobs are convenient strong, durable, and more secure than ever. Their pricey nature can mean it is expensive to replace them in the event that you lose or break one.

A basic key fob could cost just a few dollars to purchase however, having it programmed can set you back more than $200. The costs can be even more for high-end vehicles or those with special features. Certain basic warranties or insurance coverage programs might provide the replacement fob, however the majority of people pay out hundreds out of pocket when they need to have their fob fixed.

Some of the latest vehicles come with the fob of a key that can be used as a smart-key. The fobs can be used for locking, unlocking and activating an alarm with the press of the button. They can also summon your car like Tesla's summon feature, however, they must be within the reach of the vehicle to work.

Fobs of this kind contain an iron key that folds into the fob like a switchblade knife. The key is hidden when not being used by springs. It is removed with a push of the button. A switchblade fob typically costs roughly the same amount as the standard key fob that comes with the metal key.

Keyless Entry Fobs with a hidden physical key

A lot of modern key fobs have more features than just unlocking and starting the car. Modern models can do everything from lowering the windows to summon the car or even park it automatically. Some of these functions aren't necessary for your daily commute, but they can be extremely useful in certain scenarios.

Some key fobs contain the physical key, which is usually in the form a flat metal blade. Keys can be kept in a small compartment inside the key fob or removed by pressing the button located on the base. If you're trying to get to your car and you've forgotten your keys or want to be in a position to start your BMW with push-to-start capabilities, having an extra key could help.

It is a given that the battery in the key fob will fail at some point. This could be quite a discomfort for the neck. The battery of your key fob can be replaced cheaply and easily. You can get a replacement mini Cooper key from your dealer, a third-party seller such as BimmerTech or a hardware shop or big-box retailer.

Certain BMW key fobs come with a Display key for mini cooper which increases the number of functions your car can be driven from the key. You can verify if the doors are locked and plan when the air conditioner is scheduled to start. You can even see the level of fuel up to 1,000 feet away.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Folding Side Mirrors

Key fobs today are more advanced than ever. They can do more than just lock and unlock the doors or start the car remotely. Depending on the model, it may be able to make chirping sounds that assist you in finding your car in a parking area or can be used as an audio remote to control your car's radio stations.

One of the most useful hidden functions is found on a few modern models that permit you to lower all the windows at once by pressing the button on your key fob. This is perfect in the summer heat when the air conditioner doesn't do the job. The button sequence to activate the feature may not be labeled as such, so you may need to experiment with a few different combinations until you come across one that works for your car.

If you're fond of tight spaces the key fob found in newer Chevrolet and GMC vehicles can help out by automatically folding the side mirrors after locking the car. Simply press the "lock" button on the fob for about a second to activate this feature.

Do you have a car that you share with an amiable giant or someone who doesn't have as long of legs as you? Perhaps you should consider a vehicle with keys that allow you to set a seat memory. Certain models, such as those from GMC let you set up the seat you prefer and automatically remember it every time you turn on the car.

Keyless Entry Fobs that connect to Bluetooth

Criminals can now take cars away easily due to the popularity of smartphone access to cars and smart keys. These systems rely on wireless protocols that are susceptible to being hijacked. Criminals can use spoofing signals from your key fob or phone to unlock and start your car.

A key fob is a small key fob that is programmable in hardware and can be used on devices, with one-factor authentication to enable 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 can recognize and execute predetermined commands.

In many cases, the key fob can also be used as a security token. It supports two-factor or multiple-factor authentication (2FA and MFA) to provide added security. This is typically done by adding biometric verification to the equation. For example fingerprint voice print, iris or fingerprint can be used.

Keyless proximity lock systems such as the Kwikset Kevo allow users to access their doors with an iPhone or Bluetooth-enabled key fob, removing the need for a traditional key. These types of locks are very popular with business owners because they make it a breeze for administrators to take on new employees and manage access for their users without having to change locks or distribute keys.