What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob probably has many functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, control your windows, and even start your engine.
There are some tricks that you might not be aware of. Here are a few of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic that has a number buttons embedded into its sides. The majority of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, but certain buttons have additional functions. For instance, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on the key fob to lower all of their windows at once by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for people who want to cool their car during the summer heat.
Another major function of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the vehicle. This feature is a great security measure and blocks unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the car, the driver has to first press the lock on the key fob and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to remotely start the vehicle. This is particularly helpful in situations where the driver is in a hurry for work and doesn't have time to get out of the car to get the door.
Lastly lastly, the BMW key fob may also be used to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is especially helpful for those who travel with multiple people since each key fob can be used to determine the preferred temperature for each individual. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to monitor the battery's charging status.
Dropping them into water is not recommended. It's best to store the key fob in its case that is protected when it is not in use. If you do lose the key fob, a solution is available to disable it, making it inaccessible to thieves. This can be accomplished by contact with the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob could be purchased to restore full functionality to your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were big, clunky rectangles in black that from a distance looked like a bottle-opener. They were simple, but functional. Then BMW began to make them more compact and added a case made of plastic around the base of the key that made it look more attractive and less resemble the bottle opener. The new design also trimmed rough edges on the keys which could pierce bags or pockets, and made the keys easier for you to hold.
BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your palm. The BMW key fob features an LCD screen that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, operate the air conditioning and view the vehicle's information. It even offers remote parking on hybrid models!
If you're in need of an upgrade key fob, you can have the same functionality and features with the BMW Digital Key. Just use your compatible smartphone to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is available on 2021 and later BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another cool new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that lets you start your car and use some of its features with your smartphone. The app lets you remotely manage your car's climate control and check battery levels and more! You can see how much fuel is left in your car, if it's equipped with this feature.
No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process for getting a replacement is similar. You'll have to bring the original key along with the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will help you with everything. You can also choose to purchase the BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the costs of a replacement in the event that your keys get stolen or lost.
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 done five times by quickly changing the key from position one to position zero and back. Then switch 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 works with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle, start the engine, and more. It also lets you share the key with up to five others.
The key fob communicates with vehicle via encrypted signals. This makes it impossible for hackers to steal and replicate the signal. In addition, the UWB technology in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is moving when it is being carried. The system also uses an alarm built-in to stop unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch, which is a common target for thieves.
BMW offers a variety of security options that can be added. Passive Start is one of them. It disables the starter motor if the key fob does remain within close proximity to your car. This feature is available in all models of the brand and gives you peace of mind.
BMW's more sophisticated models include keyless entry, which allows users to start their vehicle without having manually inserting a key or pressing any buttons. This feature is typically activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times in a single second. In some instances, you may have to press the fob's lock three times to activate a remote start feature on the dashboard or steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW key fob in a pouch that blocks signals that reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting the identification signal from the fob and using it to gain access to the car. Some prefer the standard key case which doesn't have this feature, but can protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their cars were snatched by criminals who used a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signals. This type of attack, known as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob in an area that blocks signals, or by utilizing an application on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
Everyone has had this experience - the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you have to purchase a spare one for a family. It's affordable and easy to get a replacement BMW fob, and then program it into your car. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths can sell you an alternative key fob. A new key fob costs between $400 and $650 based on the kind of BMW you drive.
To program the new key fob into your BMW first, ensure that there isn't another key in the ignition. Close all doors in your vehicle. After that, insert your new key fob into the ignition, and move it to position 1, then back to position 0 five times in rapid succession. Then, hold down the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. Once you've completed this, take off the key and switch on the vehicle. The doors should unlock and lock, which indicates that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you might have a key blade in your key fob, or without. The process of synchronizing new fobs with your car is different for each, but the steps are nearly identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob has to be inserted into the ignition to start your car.
If you have a BMW with Comfort Access, click here the process is even simpler. After you've programmed the new key fob, simply insert it into your BMW's ignition and press the start button.
It is essential to maintain your BMW key fob in good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department can assist you find a new BMW fob or replacement. We can assist you in selecting the right key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.