Have you ever sat down to think about your car key fob? If you’re like most people, the answer would be the same: no. After all, a car key fob is just a simple piece of plastic, right? However, while underappreciated, this tiny piece of technology does a lot of things to make your life much better!

That said, if you’re simply using a car key fob to unlock your car, you’re missing out on all the other things it can do! Here are the “secret” uses that you should definitely try out with your car key fob:

1. Remote Engine Start

For starters, your car key fob can be used to start your car’s engine independently of the ignition. All you have to do is place the car in park, put the key fob in your pocket, and push the clicker. Car experts recommend this feature for cold mornings when you want to warm up your car before getting in. This works differently, depending on the vehicle manufacturer. Make sure to research this before deciding on the right vehicle for you.

2. Remote Trunk Release

Most cars that have been produced after 2000 provide key fobs that allow you to electronically open a vehicle’s locks. Your car key fob can also open your trunk just by pushing a button when you’re walking outside. Note: this works best if your trunk doesn’t have a pull-open latch or handle.

3. Remote Door Lock

You can also use your car key fob to lock and unlock the doors of your vehicle! The trick is to push the button once to unlock your doors and push the button twice to lock it again. Brands that have new car models which include this feature are Mazda, Honda, Nissan, Subaru, Audi, BMW & Chevrolet, among others. Make sure to verify that the vehicle you want supports this.

4. Keyless Entry

Keyless entry is a convenient method to access your vehicle.

Did you know that in addition to car key fobs as an option for keyless entry to your car, you can get key fobs that can be used as a remote for your house or apartment’s front door? 

Using RFID technology, when you get within a certain distance from your door lock, press the key fob button and your door will unlock!

5. Panic Button

Although this is a feature that some cars have, you can actually add a panic button on your car key fob. This will allow you to press a button in case of an emergency, making it much easier for you to contact the police!

6. Disable a Stolen Car

This works for both keys and key fobs: if you’re worried that your car has been stolen, you can easily disable the fob from a distance. This prevents a thief from being able to use your car and also makes it easier for you to track down your car, as it will stop working in case the police scan for it. By changing the remote access module, you’ll be able to disable the car.

7. Scare Off Criminals

Apart from the car’s alarm system scaring off anyone trying to break into it, did you know that you can also use said alarm to scare off any criminal trying to break into your home? Once they hear the car alarm go off, thanks to your car key fob panic button, they’ll run off!

Conclusion

As you can see, there are a ton of creative ways you can make the most out of your car key fob. Apart from the usual lock and unlock feature it offers, it can do so many other things, from starting your car, rolling down your car’s window, setting off its alarm, and even summoning the vehicle. Regardless, your fob can do so much more than you may realize, so be sure to employ these secret and useful features to make the most out of it!
Allied Lock and Door is a locksmith company offering a variety of locksmith services. If you’re looking for car key fob replacements, duplication or repairs in Cincinnati , reach out to us today!