car key with key fob built into it
Mayukh Saha
Mayukh Saha
July 10, 2024 ·  3 min read

10 Secret Uses for Your Car Key Fob

Your car key fob is more than just a piece of plastic that unlocks your car. This small, convenient device uses radio frequencies to communicate with your car, offering a range of surprising features beyond the obvious. Let’s explore ten secret uses for your fob that you may not have known before:

1. Car Key Fob for Safety: Prevent Home Break-ins

Car key fob
Image Credits: Reader’s Digest

The loud alarm triggered by your car key fob can deter potential burglars. Keep your fob by your bed and press the panic button if you hear something suspicious at night. The attention-grabbing sound could scare away criminals and protect your home from a break-in.

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2. Car Key Fob for Safety: Stay Safe at Night

Key
Image Credits: Shutterstock

Most fobs have a panic button that activates the car’s alarm and emergency lights. This feature can help you locate your car in a crowded parking lot or deter potential attackers in a deserted area.

3. For Convenience: Adjust Your Seat

Car Key Fob
Image Credits: Shutterstock

Some car models allow you to set seat preferences associated with each car key fob. When you enter the car, it recognizes your fob and automatically adjusts the seat to your preferred position.

4. For Convenience: Unlock Your Trunk

Trunk
Image Credits: Getty Images

Say goodbye to using a mechanical key to open your trunk. Many newer car models allow you to unlock the trunk with a simple button press on your car key fob.

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5. Start Your Car Remotely

A man prepares breakfast in the kitchen. Young handsome caucasian male preparing food for himself for lunch on a gas stove in a large bright kitchen
Source: Shutterstock

If you live in a state where idling is legal, your car key fob might be able to start your vehicle remotely on cold days. Look for the remote engine start button, often marked with a circular arrow.

6. For Convenience: Lower Your Windows

Man driving a car
Image Credits: Unsplash

Many fobs have the ability to roll down all the car windows at once. Try pressing the unlock button twice, holding it down the second time until the windows are fully open.

7. Park in Tight Spaces

Parking lot
Image Credits: Unsplash

Some car models, like Tesla, offer a “summon” feature on their car key fob. This feature allows you to park your car in tight spaces remotely, without needing to be inside the vehicle. The car will automatically stop if it detects obstacles and can even close your garage door for you.

8. Car Key Fob for Maintenance: Start Your Car with Your Key Fob

Ignition button
Image Credits: Unsplash

Keyless ignition systems are becoming increasingly common. If your car has this feature, your fob can start or stop the engine as long as it’s inside the car and you have your foot on the brake.

9. Fold in Your Mirrors

Car mirrors
Image Credits: Shutterstock

If you often park in tight spaces, your car key fob can help protect your side-view mirrors from getting knocked off. Hold the lock button for about ten seconds to fold in the mirrors.

10. Unlock Your Car with a Dead Battery

Car key fob
Image Credits: Shutterstock

Even if your car key fob’s battery dies, you can still unlock your car. Many keyless car fobs have a mechanical key hidden inside for such emergencies.

These are just a few examples of the secret uses for your car key fob. Explore your car’s features and discover the full potential of this handy device.

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