Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs
Key fobs have come a long way from their beginnings as decorative trinkets. Today, they can do everything from locking and unlocking doors to start cars remotely. Some even have a few extra features that the owners may not know about.
If your car's key fob begins malfunctioning, it's time to replace its battery. It's a fairly simple task.
Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs
A key fob does much more than unlock and start cars. It also serves as a security device and deterrent to theft. Today's modern fobs are practical and durable, and are more secure than ever. Their pricey nature can mean it is expensive to replace them in the event that you break or lose one.
A basic key fob could only cost a few bucks to purchase however, having it programmed will cost you more than $200. These costs are even more when you have a luxury vehicle or one that have special features. A few basic insurance plans or warranties might provide replacing the key fob. However, the majority of people will have to pay hundreds of dollars out of their own pockets in the event that this happens.
Certain newer vehicles include keys that can be used as a smart-key. These fobs are capable of locking, unlocking, or arming an alarm with a button. They can even summon your vehicle like Tesla's summon feature, however, they must be in reach of the vehicle to be effective.
The fobs that are of this type include keys made of metal that fold into the fob in the same way as a switchblade knife. The key is tucked away when not in use by a spring. You can remove it at the touch of a button. A switchblade fob will cost you about the same as a key fob with metal key.
Keyless Entry Fobs that have a physical key hidden
Modern key fobs provide more than just the ability to unlock and start a car. Modern models can do anything from rolling down windows to summon the car, and even auto-parking. While some of these nifty features might not be necessary on your daily commute, they can be incredibly useful in certain scenarios.
Some key fobs have an actual key inside of them, typically in the shape of a flat metal key blade. The keys are kept inside a small compartment within the fob, or they can be removed by pressing a button on the bottom of the key fob. An additional key is useful for when you're on the run to get to your BMW and you've forgotten your key.
The battery inside 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 cost-effective. You can purchase an alternative battery from a dealer, BimmerTech or a big-box retailer or hardware store.
Certain BMW key fobs come with the Display Key that lets you manage your car via the key. You can check if the doors are locked and plan when the air conditioner will start. You can even view the fuel level up to 1,000ft away.
Keyless Entry Fobs with Side Mirrors Folding
Today's key fobs are packed with more advanced electronics than ever before, and this tiny plastic piece of equipment does a lot more than just lock and unlock the doors and start the car remotely. It can make chirping sounds that assist you in finding your car in a parking lot, or be used as an audio remote to control the radio stations of your car.
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 a button on your key fob. replace battery mini cooper key is a great feature for a hot summer's day when your air conditioner can't keep up. The button sequence to activate the feature isn't always labeled and you might have to experiment with different combinations until you find one that fits your car.
If you'd like to keep your vehicle in a smaller space, the key fobs on newer Chevrolet or GMC vehicles will automatically fold the side mirrors of the vehicle when you lock it. Simply press the "lock" button on the fob for a full minute to activate this feature.
Do you share a car with someone who is a gentle giant, or doesn't appear to have as long legs as you do? It might be a good idea to search for a car that has an ignition keyfob that lets you to set a memory seating. 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
With the increasing popularity of smart keys as well as smartphone access to cars, criminals have been given an opportunity to steal cars. Wireless protocols used by these systems are susceptible to hijacking by criminals who can disguise the signal of the key fob or smartphone to unlock and start your vehicle.
A key fob, which is tiny hardware token that is programmable, provides one-factor authentication on the device that allows access to physical objects, such as the vehicle, computer system restricted area or room or mobile device. The fob transmits wireless signals to the sensor that recognizes and executes predetermined commands.
In many cases it is also a security token that is compatible with two-factor or multi-factor authentication (2FA or MFA) methods to offer more security. This is usually done by adding biometric verification to the equation. For example fingerprint or iris scan, or even a voice print could be used.
Keyless proximity locks like the Kwikset Kevo allow users to open their doors using smartphones or a Bluetooth-enabled key fob, removing the requirement for a traditional key. These kinds of locks are popular with business owners because they make it relatively simple for administrators to onboard new employees and control access to users without the need to change locks or distribute keys.