What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob is likely to have numerous functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, control your windows, and even start your engine.
There are some tricks you may not know about. Here are some of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic that has many buttons incorporated into its side. Most of these buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, but a few have more unique functions. BMW owners, for example can activate a hidden function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is a great option for those who want to cool their vehicle on a hot summer day.
Another significant purpose of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the vehicle. This feature is a safety measure to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the vehicle, the driver needs to first press the lock on the key fob and then press the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to remotely start the vehicle. This feature is especially beneficial when a driver is late for work and does not have time to open the door handle.
The BMW key fob also has the capability of controlling the internal climate system. This is particularly convenient for those traveling with multiple individuals as each key fob can be used to set the temperature of each person. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to check on the battery's charging status.
While standard BMW key fobs can handle normal levels of moisture, dropping them in water can cause serious damage. It's recommended to keep the key fob in a safe case when not in use. If you have lost your key fob, we can offer a service which will deactivate the device, making it useless to thieves. Contacting our dealer or technicians can do this. You can purchase a new BMW key fob to re-establish your car's functionality.
Design
BMW key fobs were huge, clunky rectangular shapes in black that from a distance looked like a bottle-opener. They were simple but functional. Then BMW started to make them a little smaller and also added a plastic case around the key's base that made it look more attractive and a little less like a bottle opener. This new design also minimized the rough key edges that could pierce bags or pockets, and made keys easier to hold.
BMW then introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your hand. It allows you to lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and display vehicle information on a small LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. It even lets you park remotely on hybrid models!
BMW Digital Keys are an excellent alternative if you want to replace your BMW key fob. You can unlock your car using your smartphone if you have a compatible model. This feature is available for 2021 or more recent BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is a innovative key from BMW that allows you to start your car and control certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to control your car’s climate control and monitor battery levels. You can see the amount of fuel left in your car if it is equipped with this feature.
The process of replacing a BMW Digital Key is the same regardless of whether you're using a 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 help you with everything. You can also purchase an BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover replacement costs when keys are 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 inoperable. This is accomplished by turning the key to position one and back in quick succession five times in a row. Then, turn it to position zero and take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. The fob is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and is compatible with BMW Connected Drive. It allows you to unlock your vehicle and start the here engine. It also allows you to share the key with up to five others.
The key fob connects to the vehicle using encrypted signals. It is therefore impossible for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents relay attacks even if it is moving. The system also has an alarm built-in to stop unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch which is a frequent target for thieves.
BMW offers a variety of security options that can be added. Passive Start is one feature that will disable the starter motor if the key fob does remain in close proximity to your vehicle. This feature is offered on a number of BMW models and can provide additional security.
BMW's more sophisticated models include keyless entry that allows drivers access and start their vehicle without having manually insert a key or press any buttons. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob in a single second. In certain situations it is possible to press the button to lock the fob three times, and then activate the 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 that a third party broadcasts the identification code from the fob in order to gain access to the car. Others prefer to use the standard key case which doesn't have this feature, but it will protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their vehicles were stolen by criminals who just employed a signal amplifier to increase the signal that identifies. This type of attack is referred to as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping your key fob in a signal blocking pocket or by installing a signal blocker app on your smartphone.
Replacement
Everybody has experienced this: the battery in your BMW key fob goes out or you'll need to purchase an extra one for your family. It's simple and inexpensive to purchase a new BMW fob and then program it into your car. You can purchase a replacement from any dealership or locksmith who is authorized by BMW. A new key fob is likely to cost between $400 and $650, depending on the type of BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob to your BMW first, ensure that there isn't another key in the ignition. It is also recommended to shut the doors of your vehicle. Then, insert the new key fob into the ignition and switch it to position 1, then back to position 0 five times quickly. Press the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. Once you've completed this, remove the key and then turn on the car. You should hear the doors lock and unlock, indicating that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you might have a key blade on your key fob or without. Each key fob has its own process to sync with your vehicle, but the steps for each are identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob will need to be inserted in the ignition to begin your car.
If you have a BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even more straightforward. Once you have programmed your new key fob in your BMW, insert it in the ignition and press start.
It is important to maintain your BMW key fob in good order. If you're looking for an entirely new BMW key fob, or a replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. 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.