What Is a Key Fob? Meaning, Types, Buttons and How It Works

Short answer A key fob sometimes written as keyfob, fob key or car key fob is a small electronic remote that controls your vehicle’s locks, alarm, boot and, on some models, keyless start. This guide explains the key fob meaning, the parts of a key fob, key fob buttons meaning, how different types of key fobs work and how to keep yours safe with a Faraday box. For help with locks or keys, see our Locksmith Services.

1. Key fob meaning and what FOB stands for
2. What does a key fob do
3. Key fob buttons and symbols meaning
4. How does a key fob work
5. Different types of key fobs
6. Inside of a key fob the internal parts
7. Security and why to use a Faraday box at night
8. How to use a key fob
9. Common questions about car fobs
10. Glossary and common terms

Key fob meaning and what FOB stands for

In everyday motoring, a key fob also called a fob key, car fob or vehicle key fob is a handheld remote for your car. Historically, “fob” referred to a small pocket or attachment for a watch key. In modern usage it no longer stands for an acronym. If you are asking what does key fob stand for or what does FOB mean key the simple answer is that fob is the remote device itself.

What does a key fob do

• Lock and unlock doors and the boot
• Arm and disarm the alarm or trigger a panic alert
• Remote start or enable push button start on supported vehicles
• Keyless entry when the fob is in range proximity unlock
• Open sliding doors or tailgates on some models

Need help with your home or business locks today See Emergency Lockout Services, New Lock Installation and Lock Maintenance.

Key fob buttons and symbols meaning

Manufacturers use slightly different icons. Here is a quick guide people often search as car key buttons meaning, key fob symbols meaning or key fob buttons. Closed padlock Locks all doors. On some cars a long press deadlocks. Open padlock Unlocks driver door or all doors. A second press may unlock the rest. Boot or tailgate icon Pops the boot. Long press may open power tailgate. Horn or alarm symbol Panic alert for locating the car or deterring threats. Curved arrow or “start” text Remote engine start on supported models.

How does a key fob work

If you have asked how does key fob work, how do key fobs work or how does a car key fob work here is the simplified process.

Remote keyless entry RKE

Pressing a button makes the fob’s transmitter send a rolling code radio signal. The car’s receiver verifies the code then performs the action lock, unlock and so on.

Passive keyless entry and start PKES

The car periodically sends a low frequency ping. A nearby fob responds over radio. If authorised the car unlocks when you touch the handle and enables push button start.

Immobiliser handshake

Even when a metal key blade is present the car and transponder chip exchange a cryptographic challenge response to allow the engine to start.

For broader locksmith help in your area see Mobile Locksmith Near Me.

Different types of key fobs

• Standard remote key fob Buttons for lock, unlock, boot, panic.
• Smart key Proximity based entry and push button start.
• Integrated key Fob with a fold out or fixed metal key blade.
• Card or phone based fob Some brands use a slim card or secure app.

Moving house or upgrading security Consider a rekey or fresh hardware with New Lock Installation or schedule preventative care with Lock Maintenance.

Inside of a key fob the internal parts

If you want to know the inside of a key fob or key fob internal parts here is what you will usually find.

• Printed circuit board with microcontroller and memory
• Radio transmitter and antenna
• Low frequency coil for passive entry models
• Battery usually a CR type coin cell
• Rubber keypad and plastic case
• Mechanical key blade for emergencies

How to open car key fob There is often a small notch or a release catch. Remove the blade if fitted, gently pry the two halves apart, replace the battery and snap shut. Always follow your vehicle manual.

Security and why to use a Faraday box at night

Keyless systems can be targeted by relay attacks where thieves amplify the signal from a fob inside your home to unlock and start the car outside. A Faraday box sometimes called a Faraday pouch blocks radio signals so the fob cannot be relayed.

• Place all fobs including spares in a Faraday box overnight and whenever the car is parked at home.
• Keep the box away from doors and windows.
• Test it by placing the fob inside and attempting to unlock the car. No response means it is working.
• Combine with sensible steps do not leave the fob in the car, update car software, and consider steering wheel locks for deterrence.

New homeowner or moving soon Read Change the Locks When You Buy a Home or check typical fees in Locksmith Costs in Melbourne.

How to use a key fob

1. Carry the fob or keep it on your key ring.
2. Use the labelled buttons to lock, unlock, open the boot or trigger the alarm.
3. For proximity systems keep the fob on you, touch the handle to unlock and press the start button with the brake applied.
4. Maintain it replace the battery when range shortens and keep the case clean and dry.

If your key will not turn or a lock is stiff, our Lock Maintenance program can prevent future lockouts. For immediate help see Emergency Lockout Services.

Common questions about car fobs

What does a key fob look like?

Typically a small black plastic remote with two to five buttons, sometimes with a flip out metal key blade.

What is a key fob for a car?

It is the remote device that controls locking, alarm functions, boot release and may enable keyless start.

What does fob stand for in key fob?

It does not stand for a modern acronym. It is a traditional word for a small attachment or pocket and is now used for remote keys.

How do key fobs work for cars?

They transmit rolling code radio signals to a matched receiver in your vehicle. Smart systems also use low frequency challenge response.

How do I keep my key fob safe at night?

Store all fobs in a Faraday box to block radio signals and reduce relay attack risk. Keep the box away from doors and windows and test that it blocks the signal.

Glossary and common terms

People search using many variations including what is a fob key, what is key fob, whats a key fob, what’s a fob key, key fob what is it, a key fob, key fob in car, key fob technology, key fob parts, key fob functions, key fobs for cars and auto key fobs. Misspellings such as key fab, key fon, key phobe, key fog, key fo, key fov, key faab refer to the same item.

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Summary A car key fob is the compact remote that manages access and starting. Understanding key fob meaning, key fob buttons meaning, the inside of a key fob and the different types of key fobs helps you use it safely. For home security place your fobs in a Faraday box at night. If you need help now call 0439 891 174 or 1300 569 626.