Did You Know? Unlock 11 Hidden Features on Your Vehicle's Key Fob

By Ashley Effinger

Hey there! Trick question: Did you know your car key fob is more than just a one-trick pony? That little plastic doohickey you use to lock and unlock your car actually has a bunch of cool features you may not know about.

Sure, it's easy to pass it off as just another boring piece of plastic, but these key fobs have become a must-have item for car owners everywhere. And with good reason! Not only are they small, light, and super discreet, but they can do some serious magic. No wand required.

From starting your car remotely to popping the trunk without ever leaving your seat, your key fob is full of hidden surprises just waiting to be discovered. And trust us, once you start playing around with these amazing features, you'll never look at your key fob the same way again.

So, what are you waiting for? Take a peek at some of these tricks and watch your car (and your mind) be blown. Just make sure you do it all safely, okay? We're not responsible for any flying keys or accidental car alarms. Happy key fobbing!

What is a key fob?

woman holding her key fob up while smiling

Listen up car enthusiasts, we’ve got the scoop on the ultimate car accessory – the key fob. Gone are the days of struggling to find your car key in a sea of other keys. A key fob is essentially your very own magic wand that can control your car from a short distance.

How does it work, you ask? It’s simple really. The fob uses low frequency radio waves to communicate with your car’s internal receiver, meaning you can lock, unlock, and even pop the trunk without ever having to physically touch your car.

But wait, there’s more!

Depending on your car’s make and model, your trusty key fob can do so much more than just the basics. Features like remote start and a panic button are just a few of the many things your key fob could potentially offer. Did you know that you might be able to start your car remotely or even roll down the windows with just a click of a button?

Yes, you read that right. The possibilities are endless, and we’ve got the insider information on all of the secret key fob hacks that you need to try for yourself. Forget about the hassle of traditional car keys and embrace the power of the key fob – trust us, you won’t regret it.

Curious to know more? We’ve got you covered. Let us help take your car game to the next level with these hidden key fob hacks.

Start Your Car’s Engine Remotely

Video Credit

Did you know that you can start your car's engine remotely using your key fob?

Look for a button with a circular arrow goin' clockwise - that's your ticket to remote startin' your ride. Just hit the lock button, followed by the start button, and boom - you're ready to hit the road.

Different key fobs have their own quirks though - Ford's key fobs, for example, have a circular arrow with a "2x" inside, which means you gotta hit the button twice to get things goin'. Some BMW models take it up a notch and don't even have a separate button for remote start - just hit the lock button a bunch of times and you're good to go.

But wait, there's more! Some newer cars have fancy remote-start systems that let you do all kinds of cool stuff, like kickin' on the AC or heating up your seats and steering wheel. Plus, if you change your mind, you can even cancel the remote start from your trusty key fob. It's like having your own personal car butler - pretty cool, right? Now that's what we call luxury at your fingertips!

Park or Summon Your Car

How to Summon the Tesla-Watch the Tesla Model S 75D Park Itself

CHECK OUT Exclusive Motorcars Summoning a Tesla on Our Lot!

Tired of worrying about scraping up your ride? Say hello to the Tesla key fob – your new parking superpower! This tiny gadget lets you park your car in tight spaces, even if you aren't inside of it. Just hit the "summon" button and watch your car expertly maneuver around obstacles and close your garage door, all on its own.

But that's not all – this key fob also unlocks all kinds of other cool features, like opening the frunk (front trunk, duh!), the charge port, and rear hatch. It's like having a magic wand for your car!

And it's not just Tesla that's come to the rescue. The Hyundai Smart Key has made parking lot logistics a breeze with its Remote Smart Parking Assist feature. There's no need to reverse out of that tight spot, just hit the Smart Key button and let your car do the hard work for you. Smart Key is available on some of Hyundai's newest models, including Sonata, Santa Fe, Tucson, Palisade and IONIQ 5.

So the next time you find yourself in a tight parking space, don't sweat it - just summon your car or hit that Smart Key button and watch the magic happen. You can say goodbye to parking stress for good. Your driving experience just got a whole lot easier!

Get Some Fresh Air on a Hot Day: Use Your Car's Key Fob to Roll the Windows Down!

Woman using key fob to roll down the windows

Feeling like a human burrito when you get into your car on a sunny day? No worries! Roll down your windows and open your sunroof with your key fob. It's the ultimate car hack that'll make your ride a breath of fresh air.

Just hit the "unlock" button twice within 10 seconds, and hold it down to roll down all your windows. It's that simple! Check your key fob to see if it has this nifty feature.

By the way, did you know that this function has been around for decades? Yet, not many people know about it. It's available on dozens of car makes and models.

So, say goodbye to getting cooked in your car on a scorching day. Grab your key fob and give it a try! And don't forget to share with us if your car brand has this cool feature on Instagram (we would love for you to join the conversation!).

Protect Your Vehicle’s Mirrors

Do you hate trying to squeeze into tight parking spots only to worry about your side mirrors getting knocked off?

Fear not, my friend! If you have a newer model Chevy or GMC like the Silverado, Sierra, Tahoe and Yukon, your key fob can help you out. Simply hold down the "lock" button for a second and watch your mirrors miraculously fold in.

No more stressing out about those oversized mirrors on SUVs and pickups. And if you're constantly worried about side-swipers, this feature is a must-have. Just enable it in your vehicle's infotainment system and impress your friends with your fancy key fob skills. Say goodbye to the stress and expense of fixing your car's mirrors and hello to easy, remote-controlled folding.

Don't have automatic folding side mirrors? No problem, just keep dodging those tight parking spaces!

Hot Tip: Your key fob might contain an extra key!

You may not know it yet, but your remote-less key fob could be hiding something extra special - like a physical key!

This little gadget can totally save the day when your battery runs out. Just press or slide that release knob on the fob, and boom! You've got a trusty mechanical key to lock or unlock your doors and trunk. Removing the key can be a cinch - and reinstalling it just as easy! It's like a secret weapon hiding in plain sight! So, next time someone doubts your car knowledge, drop this little gem on them and bask in all your secret key fob glory.

Don't be left stranded without a way into your car - check your fob for a built-in key today.

Free your Hands, Open your Trunk with a Click of your Key Fob!

Hey there, busy bee! Got your hands full of groceries or party goodies? No worries, we've got your back.

Did you know your key fob can help you unlock your trunk without even touching it? Yes, that's right! With just a click of a button, the trunk or back hatch will pop open, and you can effortlessly slip your load into place without any hassle. No need to put down your stuff, look for the key and unlock it manually. This feature is available in newer models and can make a huge difference in your daily routine. Unlock your trunk with your key fob and simplify your life!

Share a Temporary Digital Key

Yo, Hyundai peeps - ever forget your key fob at home and feel totally stranded? Well, fear not! The Hyundai Digital Key lets you use your mobile device to lock, unlock, and start your whip.

And get this - you can even share your key with your fam, friends, or even the valet (props to the fancy ones). Activate and deactivate the Digital Key whenever you please. It's standard on most new Hyundai models, including the super sleek 2023 Santa Fe . Now, that's what we call innovation!

Walk Away Auto Lock

Tired of carrying around that clunky key fob? Well, with Honda's Smart Entry featuring Walk Away Auto Lock, you can leave it in your pocket or purse!

Yup, your Honda will sense your approach and let you in all by itself, like a loyal pup wagging its tail. And when it's time to say goodbye, your Honda won't let you forget to lock up - it'll do it for you. No more double-checking if you locked the doors while you're halfway down the street.

Plus, it's not just a rare fancy-pancy option - almost all new Honda models come with this peace-of-mind feature. So why not let your Honda handle the small stuff, and focus on living big?

Get Comfortable in the Driver’s Seat

Tired of cramming yourself into the driver's seat after someone with shorter legs drove?

Well, did you know that some cars have a magical key fob that remembers your preferred seat setting, too? GMC Denali models are leading the way in this feature, allowing you to program your seat position with your fob for ultimate comfort as soon as you hit "unlock."

Say goodbye to adjusting your seat every time you get in the car and hello to a personalized driving experience. And while we're at it, don't forget to check out our expert car maintenance tips to keep your ride running smoothly for years to come.

Sound the Alarm for Safety

You know that "Panic" button on your car key fob? Yeah, the one you've probably used to scare your friends. Well, turns out it's not just for fun and games.

It's actually designed to keep you safe in sketchy situations, like walking through a dark, empty parking garage. If someone suspicious approaches you, hit that button and let the alarm do the talking. Criminals hate attention, so they'll most likely flee the scene.

And if you can't find your car in a sea of Volvos and Subarus (we've all been there), that same panic button will come in handy. Just keep your wits about you and your key fob at the ready, and you can be safe and sound all night long.

Deter Burglars and Criminals

Worried about burglars invading your home or car? Well, if you have a key fob, you've got yourself a pretty sweet defense mechanism. Not only can you use the "Panic" button to ward off attackers when you're out and about, but you can also leverage it to protect your home from invasion.

How so, you ask? By keeping your key fob close to your nightstand, you can instantly scare off burglars and alert your neighbors for some backup. And if you thought key fobs were only for cars, think again! Your trusty key fob can secretly double as a home security device.

So don't sleep with one eye open, just keep your key fob within arm's reach and stay safe. Take that, burglars!

Wrapping things up

It's time to give your key fob the love it deserves: unlock its hidden gems and use it to take your car experience to the next level.

Whether you want to pop the trunk without ever touching a button or start your car engine from the comfort of your own bed, your key fob has a host of tricks ready and waiting.

And once you get playing around with its simple features, you'll never look at driving the same way again. So go ahead, take that little plastic doohickey out and see what hidden surprises await you!

Just make sure you do it safely. And don't forget to tell us all about it afterwards; what key fob tricks will you try? Let us know on Instagram, FaceBook or TikTok - we can't wait to hear about your adventures with that sneaky key fob of yours!