What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have an BMW, chances are that your key fob has a lot of functions. You can use it for many things, including opening your doors, controlling your windows, and even starting the engine.
But there are some hidden tricks that you might not know about. Here are a few of the most effective.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic that has a number of buttons integrated into its side. Most of the buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, and some have additional functions. BMW owners, for example can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is a great option for those who wish to cool down their vehicle during the scorching summer days.
Another important benefit of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This is a wonderful security measure and blocks unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver must press the lock button on the key fob, then the circular arrow. For the latest BMW models it can be used to remotely start the car. This is especially useful when the driver is running late for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car and open the door handle.
Lastly lastly, the BMW key fob can be used to control the car's interior climate system. This is particularly useful for those who travel with several people, as it is possible to set each person's preferred temperature using their own key fob. For those who have hybrid BMW key fob, it can be used to determine the state of charge of the battery of the vehicle.
While standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of humidity, dropping them into water can cause severe damage. It is best to store the key fob in its case of protection when it is not in use. If you have lost your key fob, we can provide a service that will disable the device, making it useless to thieves. This can be done by contact with the dealer or one of our technicians. You can purchase a new BMW key fob to repair the functionality of 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. BMW then made them smaller and also added a plastic casing around the base to make it look better and less like an opener for keys. This new design also reduced rough edges on the keys that could get into bags or pockets, and made the keys easier to hold.
BMW then introduced the Display Key which puts all the features of your vehicle in your palm. The BMW key fob features an LCD screen that allows you to lock and unlock your car, control the air conditioning, and access the information about your vehicle. It even lets you park remotely on hybrid models!
BMW Digital Keys are a fantastic replacement if you need to replace the BMW key fob. You can unlock your vehicle by using your smartphone, if you have a compatible model. This feature is available on 2021 or more recent BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is another amazing new key from BMW that lets you start your vehicle and operate certain functions using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely control the climate control of your car and check battery levels. You can see how much fuel is left in your car, if it's equipped with this feature.
Whether you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process of obtaining an replacement is the same. Our experts will assist you with the process when you bring the old and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also choose to purchase the BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the cost of a replacement in the event that your keys are stolen or lost.
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 make it unusable. This is done by turning the key to position one and back in quick succession five times in a row. Then, turn the key to position zero and take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. The fob works with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It allows you to unlock your vehicle and start the engine. You can also share the key with five other people.
The key fob connects to the vehicle via encrypted signals. It is therefore difficult for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. In addition, the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even when the fob is in motion while it's being carried. The system uses an alarm to stop unauthorised starting and disables ignition switch.
BMW also offers a range of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob isn't within close proximity to the vehicle. This feature is available in many of the brand's models and offers security.
BMW's most advanced models come with keyless entry, which allows drivers access and 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 within one second. In certain situations, you might have to press the fob's lock three times to activate the remote start feature on the steering wheel or dashboard.
Some people carry their BMW keyfob in a pouch that blocks signals. This decreases the possibility of a third-party broadcasting identifying code from the fob in order to gain access to the vehicle. Others prefer to use the standard key case which doesn't have this feature, but it will protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals using signal amplifiers to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. 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 using a signal blocker app on your phone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery fails or you need an extra battery for your family member. It's affordable and easy to purchase a new BMW fob, and program it into your vehicle. You can purchase the replacement from any dealership or locksmith that is authorized by BMW. A new key fob will typically cost between $400 and get more info $650, depending on the type of BMW you drive.
To program the new key fob into your BMW first, make sure that there isn't another key in the ignition. Also, close all doors inside your vehicle. Next you'll need to insert your new key fob in the ignition and move it to position 1, then return to position 0 five times rapidly. 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. You should hear the doors 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 a key fob that has an actual key blade in it, or a fob that doesn't have one. The process of synchronizing new fobs to your car differs for each however, the steps are similar. The only difference is that a key fob with a metal key in it will need to be put into the ignition when you wish to start the car.
If you have an BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even simpler. Once you have programmed an entirely new key fob simply connect it to the ignition of your car and press the start button.
It is crucial to keep your BMW key fob in good in good working order. Patrick BMW's parts department can help you locate a new BMW fob or replacement. We can help you find the right key fob for your car, and we can even upgrade your BMW with the Comfort Access upgrade to enable keyless entry and engine starting.