What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own a BMW you are likely to find that your key fob has a lot of functions. It can be used for many things, including unlocking your doors, controlling your windows, and even starting the engine.
However, there are some hidden tricks that you might not know about. Here are some of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a tiny, rectangular piece of plastic with many buttons built into its side. The majority of these buttons allow you to lock and unlock your car however, some are distinct. For example, BMW owners can activate an invisible function on the key fob to lower all their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button two times. This is a great option for those who want to cool their car during the summer heat.
The BMW key fob can be used to start your vehicle. This feature is a safety measure to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver has to press the lock button on the key fob and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to start the vehicle remotely. This feature is particularly beneficial when a driver is late to work and does not have the time to pull the door handle.
The BMW key fob can also be used for controlling the internal climate system. This is particularly convenient for people who travel with several people as each key fob can be used to set the temperature for each person. The key fob of 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 humidity, dropping them into water can cause serious damage. It's best to store the key fob in its case that is protected when not in use. If you lose your key fob, we can provide a service that will deactivate the device, making it inaccessible to thieves. Contacting the dealer or our technicians will be able to do this. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob could be purchased to restore functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were big, clunky rectangles in black that from a distance looked like a bottle-opener. They were simple, but functional. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it look better and less like the key opener. The new design also trimmed the rough edges of the keys which could puncture bags or pockets, and made the keys easier to hold.
BMW introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your palm. It lets you lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and view the vehicle's information on a small touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. It even offers remote parking on hybrid models!
BMW Digital Keys are a great replacement if you need to replace the BMW key fob. You can unlock your car by using your smartphone, when you own a compatible model. This feature is available for 2021 or later BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is a amazing new key from BMW that allows you to start your vehicle and operate certain features using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely control the climate control of your car and check battery levels and more! You can even check how you've got gas left in your tank, if the car is equipped with that feature.
No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting a replacement is similar. You'll need to bring your working key check here and the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will help you with everything. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover the cost of replacement if your keys get lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first step is to reset the key, which erases any programming on it and make it unusable. This is accomplished five times, by shifting the key from one position to zero and back. Then, turn the key until it is at zero and then remove it from 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 works with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the vehicle and start the engine. You can also share the key with five people.
The key fob connects to the vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it difficult for hackers to steal and replicate the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents relay attacks even if it is in motion. The system utilizes an alarm to prevent unauthorized starting and disables ignition switch.
BMW offers a variety of optional security features. Passive Start is one feature that disables the starter motor if the key fob does remain within close proximity to your vehicle. This feature is offered on a number of BMW models and can provide an additional level of security.
A number of the more advanced BMW models offer keyless access that allows drivers to enter and start the vehicle without having manually push any buttons or insert the physical key. This feature can be activated by pressing three times on the lock button of the fob in just one second. In some instances, you may have to press the lock on the fob three times to activate the remote start feature on the steering wheel or dashboard.
Some people carry their BMW key fob in a case that blocks signals. This minimizes the risk of a third-party broadcasting the identification 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 will still protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals who used an amplifier for signal strength to boost the identification signals. This kind of attack is known 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
It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery goes out, or you need a spare for a family member. Thankfully, getting an alternative BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and affordable. You can purchase a replacement from any dealership or locksmith that is authorized by BMW. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650, depending on the type 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 in your vehicle. After that put your new key fob in the ignition, and switch it to position 1 before turning back to position 0 five times in rapid succession. Hold the unlock button, then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. Once you've completed this, remove the key and switch on the car. You should hear the doors unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you might either have a key blade inside your key fob or one that isn't. Each one has a distinct process for synchronizing with your car, however the steps for each are almost identical. The only difference is the metal key fob has to be placed in the ignition to start your car.
If you own a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is even easier. Once you have programmed your new key fob in your BMW, insert it in the ignition and press start.
While your BMW is a fantastic vehicle to get around Decatur It is crucial that you keep your key fob in a good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department can help you find a replacement BMW fob or replacement. We can help you locate the perfect key fob for your car and can upgrade your BMW by introducing a Comfort Access upgrade to enable keyless entry and engine starting.