What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have a BMW you are likely to find that your key fob is equipped with numerous functions. You can use it for many things, including unlocking your doors, adjusting your windows as well as starting the engine.
But there are some hidden tricks that you might not know about. Let's take a look some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic with many buttons incorporated in its side. Most of these buttons unlock and lock the car, but a few are unique. BMW owners, for example can activate a hidden function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for those looking to cool off their car in the heat of summer.
The BMW key fob can be used to start your vehicle. This feature is a safety measure to ensure that no one is able to gain access to the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver must press the lock button on the key fob, then press the circular arrow. For the latest BMW models, this feature can also be used to remotely start the vehicle. This is especially useful when the driver is late for work and doesn't have time to get out of the car and open the door.
Lastly lastly, the BMW key fob can be used to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is especially useful for those who travel with multiple people since each key fob can be used to set the preferred temperature of each person. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to check the battery's charging status.
While the standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of water, dropping them into water can cause serious damage. It is recommended to keep the key fob inside its protective case when not in use. If you lose the key fob, a replacement can be offered to deactivate it, making it unusable for thieves. Contacting the dealer or our technicians will do this. You can purchase a replacement BMW key fob to restore the functionality of your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were huge, clunky rectangular shapes in black that, from a distance, looked like a bottle opener. They were basic, but they served a purpose. Then BMW began to make them more compact and added a case made of plastic around the base of the key, which made it appear more elegant and less like an opener for bottles. This new design also minimized the rough key edges that could pierce bags or pockets and made the keys easier to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the features of your car in your hand. The BMW key fob has an LCD screen which allows you to lock and unlock your car, control the air conditioning, and access vehicle information. Even hybrid models can have remote parking!
BMW Digital Keys are an excellent alternative if you want to replace your BMW key fob. You can unlock your vehicle using your smartphone when you own an appropriate model. This feature is available on 2021 or more recent BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another exciting new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that allows you to start your car and operate some of its features with your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control the climate control of your car, check battery levels, and more! You can also see how much gas you have left in your tank in the event that your car is equipped with this feature.
The process of replacing the BMW Digital Key is the same regardless of whether you're using the traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. You'll have to bring your original key along with the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will assist you with everything. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection Plan, which covers the cost of replacement in the event that your keys are lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first step is to reset the key, which will erase any programming on it and render it inoperable. This is done by turning the key to position one and then back quickly, five times in a row. Then you can turn the key to position zero and remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a efficient way to start your car. The fob is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It allows you to unlock your vehicle and then start the engine. You can also share the key with five other people.
The key fob communicates with the vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it difficult for hackers to intercept and replicate the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even if the device is in motion. The system also uses a built-in alarm to prevent non-authorized starts and disables ignition switch which is a frequent target for thieves.
BMW also offers a range of more info security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob isn't near to the car. This feature is available on many BMW models and offers additional security.
Many of the more advanced BMW models offer keyless access which allows drivers to enter and start the vehicle without having to manually use any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature is typically activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times in a single second. In certain situations it may be necessary to press the lock button on the fob three times, and then activate a separate remote start feature in the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people keep their BMW keyfob in a pouch that blocks signals. This decreases the possibility of a third-party broadcasting identification code from the fob in order to gain access to the vehicle. Others prefer to use the standard key case that does not come with this feature, but it will protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals who used signal amplifiers to boost the identifying signals. This type of attack, also known as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob into pockets that block signals, or by installing an app on your phone to block signals.
Replacement
It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery fails or you require an extra battery for your family member. It's easy and affordable to purchase a new BMW fob, and program it into your car. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can offer you a replacement key fob. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650, depending on the model of BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob to your BMW, first make sure that there isn't another key in the ignition. Close all doors of your vehicle. Place your new key fob in the ignition, then quickly turn it from position 1 to 0, and back again. Next, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. Once you've completed this, remove the key and turn on the car. The doors should unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Depending on your car model depending on the model of your car, you could have an ignition key fob with an actual key blade in it, or a fob that does not have one. Each fob has a different process for synchronizing with your car, however the steps for each are identical. The only difference is the metal key fob has to be placed in the ignition to start your vehicle.
If you own a BMW with Comfort Access the process is even easier. Once you have programmed an entirely new key fob simply insert it into the ignition of your car and press the start button.
It is essential to keep your BMW key fob in working condition. If you're in search of a new BMW key fob or replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you locate the perfect key fob for your car and even upgrade your BMW by introducing a Comfort Access upgrade to enable keyless entry and engine starting.