Why We Enjoy Replacement Mini Cooper Key (And You Should, Too!) Hidden Features of Mini Key Fobs


Key fobs have come a long way from their initial days as merely decorative trinkets. They can now do everything, from locking and unlocking the doors to remote start of the car. g28carkeys.co.uk have a few additional features that owners might not know about.

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

Switchblade Keyless Entry Fobs

A key fob does more than unlock and start a car. It also serves as a security device and a deterrent to theft. High-tech key fobs today are more durable, convenient and secure than they have ever been. The high cost of these devices can make it expensive to replace them in the event that you lose or break one.

A basic keyfob may cost a few bucks however, it can cost more than $200 to program. These costs are even more for luxury vehicles or those with special features. Some basic insurance programs or warranties may pay for replacing the key fob. However, the majority of people will need to pay hundreds of dollars from their own pocket if this happens.

Some newer cars also have a fob which can also function as a smart key. These fobs can be locked, unlocked, and arm an alarm at the pressing of a button. They can also summon your car like Tesla's summon feature however, they must be in range of the vehicle to work.

The fobs that are of this type include a metal key that folds into the fob like a switchblade knife. A spring holds the key inside when not in use and you can take it out with the press of a button to open the vehicle. A switchblade key fob costs about the same as a key fob that has a metal keys.

Keyless Entry Fobs with an invisible physical key

A lot of modern key fobs have more functions than simply unlocking and starting cars. Newer models can perform everything from rolling down windows, summoning the vehicle and even auto-parking. Certain of these features aren't ideal for your daily commute but they can be extremely helpful in certain scenarios.

Some key fobs come with the physical key, which is usually in the form of a flat blade of metal. The keys can be put inside a small compartment of the key fob, or removed by pressing the button on the base. A spare key can be useful if you are in a rush to get to your BMW and have lost your key.

It is inevitable that the battery inside your key fob will go out at some point. This can be quite a pain in the neck. The battery for your key fob could be easily and cheaply replaced. You can purchase an additional battery from a dealer, BimmerTech or a big-box retailer or hardware store.

Certain BMW key fobs include a Display Key that increases the number of functions your car is able to be driven with the key. You can determine if the doors are locked and set a timer when the air conditioner will be turned on. You can even check the fuel level up to 1,000 feet away.

Keyless Entry Fobs with Folding Side Mirrors

Key fobs of today are more sophisticated than ever. They can do more than just lock and unlock the doors or start the car remotely. Depending on the model, it might also make chirping sounds to assist you in finding your vehicle in a parking lot or as an audio remote to control the radio stations.

One of the most useful hidden features is available on modern models that permit users to shut down all windows immediately by pressing a button on the key fob. This is a great feature to have in the summer heat when the air conditioner doesn't do the job. The sequence of buttons that activate the feature isn't always identified, so you may have to experiment with a few different combinations until you discover one that works with your car.

If you'd like to keep your car in a compact space, the key fobs on newer Chevrolet or GMC vehicles will automatically fold the side mirrors after you lock it. Simply press the "lock" button on the fob for a full two seconds to enable this feature.

Do you have a vehicle with someone who is a gentle giant or just doesn't seem to have the same length legs as you do? It might be a good idea to search for a car with the key fob that lets the setting of a memory seat. Certain models, like those from GMC allow you to set your preferred seat, and the car will remember it every time you start it.

Keyless Entry Fobs that Connect to Bluetooth

Criminals can now take cars away easily due to the popularity of smartphone car access and smart keys. These systems use wireless protocols that are vulnerable to hijacking. Criminals can spoof signals from your phone or key fob to unlock and start your car.

A key fob, tiny hardware token that is programmable can be used to provide one-factor authentication on the device, allowing access to physical objects such as a vehicle, computer system restricted area or room or mobile device. The fob sends wireless signals to the sensor which is able to recognize and execute predetermined commands.

In many instances the key fob could also be used as an additional security token. It can be used for two-factor or multiple-factor authentication (2FA and MFA) to offer additional security. This is typically done by adding biometric authentication to the equation, which could include fingerprints as well as an iris scan or voice print, for instance.

Proximity keyless lock systems like the Kwikset Kevo allow users to access their doors with either a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone or key fob, eliminating the need for a traditional key. These systems are a favorite among business owners due to their ability to enable administrators to manage user access and onboard new employees without having to change locks or distribute keys cards.