Twenty Myths About Replacement Mini Cooper Key: Busted Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs

Key fobs have changed a lot from their initial use as decorative trinkets. They can now perform everything from locking and unlocking doors to starting the car remotely. Some even have secrets that owners may not be aware of.

If your car's key fob starts getting a little agitated, it's time to replace its battery. It's a simple task.

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob does a lot more than unlock and start an automobile. It is also a theft deterrent and security device. Today's high-tech fobs are convenient and durable, and are more secure than ever. Their pricey nature can mean it is expensive to replace them if you lose or break one.

A basic keyfob can cost only a few dollars however it could cost upwards of $200 to program. These prices are higher when you have a vehicle with top-of-the-line options or features. Some basic insurance programs or warranties can provide a replacement key fob. However, most people will need to pay hundreds of dollars out of their own pockets in the event that this occurs.

Certain newer vehicles come with a key fob that can be used as smart-keys. These fobs are capable of locking, unlocking, and activating an alarm with the press of one button. They can even summon your car like Tesla's summon feature but they have to be within range of the vehicle for them to work.


The type of fob you choose to use has an aluminum lock which folds up into the fob, like an ad-hoc switchblade. 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 key to access the vehicle. A switchblade fob typically costs about the same as the standard key fob that comes with metal keys.

Keyless Entry Fobs that have a Physical Key Hidden

Modern key fobs provide more than just the capability to unlock and start a car. The latest models can perform everything from rolling down windows, summoning the vehicle and even auto-parking. Certain of these features aren't suitable for your everyday commute but they can be extremely useful in certain scenarios.

Some key fobs come with a physical key hidden within them, usually in the form of a flat metal key blade. Keys can be kept in a small storage compartment inside the key fob or removed by pressing the button located on the base. A spare key can be useful for when you're in a rush to get to your BMW and you've forgotten your key.

G28 inside your key fob is bound to fail at some point. This could be a huge neck pain. The battery for your key fob could be replaced cheaply and easily. You can buy a replacement battery from your dealer, BimmerTech or a big-box retailer or hardware store.

Certain BMW key fobs also come with the Display Key that allows you to manage your car via the key. You can see if the doors are locked, plan when the AC should turn on and even see your fuel level up to 1000 feet away.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Side Mirrors Folding

Key fobs of today are packed with the most advanced electronic components ever, and this little plastic piece of equipment does a lot more than lock or unlock doors and remotely start the car. Depending on the model, it can also emit chirping sounds to assist you in finding your car in a parking lot or can be used 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 just cannot keep up. The button sequence to activate the feature isn't always labeled and you might have to experiment with a few different combinations until you find one that works with your vehicle.

If you'd like to keep your car in a small space, the key fob on some newer Chevrolet or GMC vehicles will automatically fold the side mirrors on the vehicle once you lock it. To activate this feature, press the "lock button" on the fob and hold it for 2 seconds.

Do you have a car that you share with someone who is gentle or who just doesn't have the same legs as you? Then you might want to consider a vehicle with a key fob that allows you to set an automatic seat memory. Some models, like the ones from GMC can allow you to set up the seat you prefer and automatically remember it each time you turn on the car.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Keyless Entry that connect to Bluetooth

Criminals have the ability to steal cars with ease due to the increasing popularity of smartphones for access to cars and smart keys. Wireless protocols used by these systems are vulnerable to hijacking by criminals able to disguise the signal of the key fob or smartphone to open and start your car.

A key fob is a small electronic token that is programmable and provides on-device, one-factor authentication to allow access to physical objects such as a car, computer system, restricted space or room or mobile device. The fob sends wireless signals to the sensor which recognizes and executes predetermined commands.

In many instances, the key fob can also be used as a security token. It supports two-factor or multiple-factor authentication (2FA and MFA) to offer additional security. This is typically accomplished by adding biometric verification to the equation. For example fingerprint or iris, or even a voiceprint could be used.

Keyless proximity locks like the Kwikset Kevo allow users to open their doors using a smartphone or a Bluetooth-enabled key fob, removing the requirement for a traditional key. These kinds of locks are very popular with business owners since they make it a breeze for administrators to welcome new employees and manage user access without having to change locks or distribute key cards.

This user has nothing created or favorited (yet).