What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob probably has numerous functions. You can use it to do a variety of things, such as unlocking your doors, adjusting your windows, and even starting the engine.
There are some tricks that you might not be aware of. Here are some of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob consists of a small rectangle of plastic with many buttons incorporated into its sides. Most of them allow you to lock and unlock your car, but a few are distinct. For instance, BMW owners can activate an invisible function on the key fob to lower all their windows at once by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for people who wish to cool down their vehicle during a hot summer's day.
The BMW key fob can also be used to begin your vehicle. This is a wonderful security precaution that prevents unauthorised entry into the vehicle. To start the car, the driver must first turn off the lock on the key fob, and then press the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to remotely start the car. This feature is particularly useful when a driver is running late to work and doesn't have time to turn the door.
Finally it is worth noting that the BMW key fob can be utilized to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is particularly useful for those who travel with multiple people, since it is possible to set each individual's preferred temperature using their own key fob. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to monitor the battery's charging status.
While standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of moisture, dropping them in water can cause significant damage. It is recommended to keep the key fob in its case of protection when it is not in use. If you lose your key fob, we can provide a service that will disable the device, making it useless to thieves. This can be done by calling the dealer or one of our technicians. You can buy a replacement BMW key fob to restore your car's functionality.
Design
BMW key fobs were once huge rectangular black pieces that looked like an opener for bottles from a distance. They were basic, but useful. Then BMW began to make them smaller and also added a case made of plastic around the base of the key, which made it appear more elegant and less resemble an opener for bottles. This new design also minimized the rough edges of keys which could puncture bags or pockets and made keys easier to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the functions of your vehicle in the palm of your hand. It allows you to lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and display the vehicle's information on a small LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models have remote parking!
If you're in need of a replacement key fob, you can have the same great function with a BMW Digital Key. You can use any smartphone compatible to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your car! This feature is only available for BMW vehicles built after 2021 with the iDrive 8 system.
Another new and exciting key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that allows you to start your vehicle and use certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control your car’s climate control and check battery levels. You can see how much fuel remains in your car if it is equipped with this feature.
The process for replacing a BMW Digital Key is the same regardless of whether you're using the traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. Our technicians will assist you with the process if you bring your old key and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase the BMW Key Protection Plan, which covers the cost of replacement if your keys get lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing you have to do is reset the key. This erases all programming and render it useless. This is accomplished five times by quickly turning the key from one position to zero and back. Then, turn it back to zero and then take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. The fob works with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle, start the engine, and more. You can also share the key with five other people.
The key fob communicates with the vehicle via encrypted signals. It is therefore difficult for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even when it is in motion. The system also has an alarm built-in to stop non-authorized starts and disables ignition switch, which is a common target for thieves.
BMW also offers a variety of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob isn't near to the car. This feature is offered on a number of BMW models and can provide additional peace of mind.
BMW's more sophisticated models include keyless entry, which allows drivers access and start their car without having to manually insert a key or push any buttons. This feature can be activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob in a single second. In some instances, you may need to press the lock button on the fob three times, and then turn on the remote start feature in the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people keep their BMW key fob in a case that blocks signals. This decreases the possibility of a third-party broadcasting identifying code from the fob in order to gain access to the car. Others prefer to use a standard key case, which doesn't have this feature, but it will protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners reported that their cars were stolen by criminals using an amplifier for signal strength to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This type of attack, known as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob into a pocket that blocks signals, or by installing an app on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery fails or you need an extra battery for someone in your family. Fortunately, finding a replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and inexpensive. You can purchase an alternative from any dealer or locksmith authorized by BMW. A new key fob costs between $400 and $650 depending on the type BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob to your BMW first, ensure that there isn't another key in the ignition. Close all the doors of your vehicle. Place your new key fob in the ignition, and quickly change it from position 1 to 0, and then back to position 1. Press the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, remove your key and turn the car on. The vehicle's doors unlock and lock. This means that the new click here key fob was successfully programmed.
Based on the car model You may have a key fob that has an actual key blade in it, or a key fob that does not have one. The process of synchronizing new fobs to your vehicle is different for each one, but the steps are nearly identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob will need to be put into the ignition to start your car.
If you have a BMW with Comfort Access the process is even simpler. After you have programmed a new key fob, simply insert it into your BMW's ignition and press the start button.
While your BMW is a fantastic vehicle to get around Decatur, it is important that you keep your key fob in a good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you find a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you select the best key fob for your needs and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.