How To Roll Down Your Windows with a Key Fob And More Hidden Features

The modern vehicle’s key fob is now home to a host of different features, other than simply locking and unlocking your vehicle remotely. If you own a newer vehicle, you might not even know some of these features exist. They all have their perks and drawbacks. It’s all there in the owner’s manual, but if you want a quick rundown on what your key fob might be capable of, keep reading.

Window Control

Many vehicles today are capable of remote window control using the key fob. This feature allows you to air the vehicle out prior to stepping inside. To roll down the windows with your key fob, try pressing the unlock button, releasing it, then pressing and holding the button down. Some vehicles might require you to insert the physical key in the lock, turn it counterclockwise, releasing, then turning counterclockwise again while holding the key in place. As for how to roll up your windows with a key fob, you can try pressing the unlock button twice and then holding the button down on the second press. Check your owner’s manual for the exact instructions for your vehicle’s make and model.

Remote Start

If your vehicle has the remote-engine start (RES) feature, it will often be linked to either an app on your phone or your key fob. As its name implies, remote start allows you to start your vehicle remotely. You can turn on the heater and warm up the engine before you enter the vehicle.

One drawback is that key fob remote start typically has a range of 400 to 700 feet. This limits its use for apartment owners unless the remote start has optional app activation. In addition, noxious gases will build up if you remote-start your vehicle in an enclosed space like a residential garage. Remember to take the proper safety precautions and purchase the remote-start system that suits your needs.

Keyless Ignition

Keyless ignition, also known as a push-button start, has become a popular addition to modern vehicles. The system utilizes the key fob to identify the vehicle’s driver using a unique, low-frequency signal. Simply carrying the fob around allows you to enter and start your vehicle with ease.

One of the main issues of a keyless ignition is the potential for human error. Many drivers have reported leaving their vehicle on after parking and exiting their vehicle, and it’s led to at least two deaths from carbon monoxide poisoning. Staying aware of your vehicle’s state is essential with a keyless ignition.

Mirror Folding

Your key fob can also remotely fold your vehicle’s mirrors. You won’t need to head to either side of your vehicle to fold your mirrors manually anymore. This helps prevent them from getting swiped by closely passing vehicles. You can activate this feature on newer Chevrolet and GMC pickups by holding the lock button for one second.

Smart Parking Assist and Vehicle Summon

Certain vehicles now have a smart parking assist feature built into their systems. For Teslas, it’s called vehicle summon. This feature allows you to move your vehicle forward or backwards while standing outside it. It’s great for getting your vehicle into and out of tighter parking slots. You won’t need to struggle with exiting or entering your vehicle even when it’s close to other parked cars.

On Teslas, you’ll first need to enable the system on the center screen. To move the car forward, press the button on the center of your fob until the hazard lights begin flashing. This will activate the Summon feature. For Hyundai vehicles, activate smart assist by pressing the Smart Park button found on the center console and following the instructions on the digital gauge cluster.

Mechanical Key

While many vehicles with a keyless ignition no longer make use of a mechanical key, certain models still provide one in the key fob for emergencies. If the key fob runs out of battery, for instance, a mechanical key is helpful for entering the vehicle. There’s usually a button on the fob to pull out the key.

Seat Settings

Certain vehicles also save your seat settings, and the controls are in their key fobs. This is useful for drivers who share a vehicle with others and don’t like needing to readjust their seats manually every time.

Panic Button

Activating your key fob’s panic button triggers the vehicle’s alarm system. This is useful for dangerous situations and mundane ones. It can alert any passersby about an ongoing crime, or it can simply help you find your vehicle in a crowded car park. Either way, it’s a useful feature.

Learning your vehicle’s key fob functions is important to avoid any accidental activations. You don’t want to roll down your windows as you’re walking away only to return to a soaked interior. While it can be difficult to learn all of the features, especially with the lack of labels on the key fob’s limited space, it’ll be worth it in the long run. Hopefully you’ll discover a nifty new feature you can use for your convenience.

Where to Get A New Key Fob Your Vehicle

There’s no denying that your key fob can do wonders, from rolling down your windows and folding the mirrors to activating the panic button and starting the engine. So, it can get pretty annoying when your key fob is rendered useless.

The good news is that you can easily shop for a top-notch replacement key fob right here at CarParts.com. Our team of industry professionals carefully handpicked our products, so you’re sure to get a key fob that’s built to last.

Enter your vehicle’s year, make, and model into our selection tool to start browsing compatible key fobs for your ride. You can also use the search filters to find a key fob according to your preferred brand, price range, and more.

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Can’t shop online? Don’t worry! Call us anytime using our toll-free hotline, and our round-the-clock customer service representatives will be ready to assist you.

Check out our key fob replacements today!