Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

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

Replace the battery if your key fob isn't working. It's a relatively simple job.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

Key fobs do more than unlock and start the car. It's also a burglar deterrent and security device. High-tech key fobs today are more efficient, practical and secure than they have ever been. However, their price could cause them to be expensive to replace in the event of losing or break one.


A basic keyfob might cost a few bucks, but it can cost upwards of $200 to program. These costs are higher for high-end vehicles or those with specific features. A few basic warranties or insurance coverage programs may provide a replacement fob, but the majority of people pay out hundreds out of pocket when they need to have their device repaired.

Some of the latest vehicles have an accessory key fob that can be used as a smart-key. These fobs are capable of locking, unlocking, and arming an alarm by pressing one button. They can summon your car, much like Tesla's summon function. However, they must be within the range of the vehicle to function.

Fobs of this type contain an iron key that folds into the fob just like a switchblade knife. A spring keeps the key tucked inside when it's not in use and it is possible to pop it out by pressing of a button for access to the vehicle. A switchblade fob is priced around the same as a key fob that has a metal key.

Keyless Entry Fobs that have a physical key hidden

A lot of modern key fobs have more features than just unlocking and starting an automobile. Newer models can perform everything from opening and closing windows to summoning the car and even auto-parking. Some of these functions aren't necessary for your daily commute, but they could be extremely useful in certain circumstances.

Some key fobs come with an actual key inside, usually in the shape of a flat metal key blade. These keys can be stored in a small storage compartment inside the key fob or removed by pressing the button located on the base. If car key locksmith in a rush to get to your car, and you've lost your keys or you wish to be capable of starting your BMW with push-to-start functionality, having a spare key can be useful.

The battery in your key fob is bound to die at some point. This can be a huge neck pain. The battery for your key fob could be easily and cheaply replaced. You can purchase a replacement from your dealer, a third-party seller like BimmerTech, or a hardware shop or big-box retailers.

Certain BMW key fobs include the Display Key which adds to the range of functions your car is able to be driven using the key. You can see if the doors are locked, set a timer when the air conditioning will be on, and even view the level of your fuel from up to 1000 feet away.

Keyless Entry Fobs With Side Mirrors that Fold

Key fobs of today are more sophisticated than ever. They can do more than simply lock and unlock the doors or allow you to start your car remotely. Depending on the model, it can be able to make chirping sounds that help you find your vehicle in a parking lot or as an audio remote to control the radio stations.

One of the most useful hidden functions is available on modern models that permit you to minimize all windows at once by pressing a button on the key fob. This is great for hot summer days when your air conditioner cannot keep up. The button sequence to activate the feature isn't always clearly labeled however, so you may have to experiment with different combinations until you discover the one that is suitable for your vehicle.

If you're a fan of tight spaces keys on some newer Chevrolet and GMC vehicles can help you out by automatically folding the vehicle's side mirrors when you lock the car. Simply press the "lock" button on the fob for about a second to enable this feature.

Do you have a car that you share with an amiable giant or someone who just doesn't have the same legs as you? Then you might want to look into a vehicle with a key fob that lets you to set the seat memory. Certain models, like those from GMC allow you to set your preferred seat, and the vehicle will 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 offered an easy opportunity to steal cars. These systems make use of wireless protocols that are vulnerable to hijacking. Criminals are able to spoof signals from your phone or key fob to unlock and start the car.

A key fob, which is small hardware token that can be programmed offers one-factor authentication for the device to allow access to physical objects like an automobile, computer system restricted area or room, or mobile device. The fob transmits wireless signals to a device which recognizes the information as well as commands, and then performs the predetermined functions like locking or unlocking.

In a lot of instances, a key fob is also a security token which supports multi-factor or two-factor authentication (2FA or MFA) methods to offer additional security. This is usually accomplished by adding biometric verification to the equation. For example fingerprint, iris or voice print can be used.

Kwikset Kevo proximity keyless locks allow users to unlock their doors with a smartphone or Bluetooth-enabled fob. This removes the need for traditional keys. These systems are popular among business owners due to the fact that they enable administrators to manage access for users and onboard new employees without having to change locks or distribute keys cards.