What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own a BMW, chances are that your key fob has many functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, operate your windows, and even start your engine.
There are some tricks you may not be aware of. Let's take a look some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is an incredibly small piece of plastic that has many buttons incorporated into its side. The majority of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, and certain buttons have additional functions. For example, BMW owners can activate an in-built function on the key fob to lower all of their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button two times. This is a great option for those who want to cool their vehicle during the scorching summer days.
Another significant benefit of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This feature is a great security precaution that prevents unauthorised 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 vehicle. This feature is especially useful when the driver is late for work and doesn't have time to open 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 since each key fob is able to set the preferred temperature for each person. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to check on the battery's charge status.
While the standard BMW key fobs can handle normal levels of water, dropping them into water can cause serious damage. It's best to store the key fob inside its case that is protected when it is not in use. If you lose your key fob we can offer a service that will deactivate the device, making it inaccessible to thieves. Contacting the dealer or one of our technicians can do this. You can purchase a new BMW key fob to re-establish your car's functionality.
Design
BMW key fobs used to be big rectangular black pieces that looked like an opener for bottles from a distance. They were simple, but functional. BMW then made them smaller and put a plastic casing around the base to make it appear more attractive and less like the key opener. This new design also minimized the rough edges of the keys that could poke through bags or pockets and made keys more comfortable to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all of your vehicle's functionality in your hand. It lets you lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and view the information about your vehicle on a tiny LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. It even offers remote parking on hybrid models!
BMW Digital Keys are a fantastic alternative if you want to replace your BMW key fob. You can use any smartphone compatible to replace the BMW key fob and unlock your vehicle! 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 lets you start your car and control certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to manage your car's climate control and check the battery level. You can see how much fuel is left in your car, if it's equipped with this feature.
The process of replacing a BMW Digital Key is the same regardless of whether you're using the traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. Our experts will assist you with the process when you bring the old and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase an 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 thing to do is reset the key. This erases all programming and render it unusable. This is done five times, by turning the key from one position to zero and back. Then, turn it back to position zero read more and then pull it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. The fob is compatible with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle and start the engine and more. It also allows you to share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob communicates encrypted signals to the vehicle. It is therefore extremely difficult for hackers and cloners, to intercept the signal. In addition, the UWB technology in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even when the fob is in motion when it is being carried. The system uses an alarm to block unauthorised starting and disables ignition switch.
BMW also offers a variety of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob is not within close proximity to the car. This feature is available on many BMW models and offers additional security.
BMW's more sophisticated models include keyless entry that allows users to start their car without having to 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 it is possible to press the button to lock the fob three times to then activate an additional remote start feature in the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW key fob in a pouch with a signal blocker that reduces the chance of a third party broadcasting the identification signal from the fob and allowing access to the car. Some people prefer to use an ordinary case that does not come with the feature, but it still protects the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals using signal amplifiers to boost the identifying signals. This type of attack is referred to as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping the key fob in a signal blocking pocket or by installing a signal blocker app on your smartphone.
Replacement
Everyone has experienced this - the battery in your BMW key fob fails or you'll need to purchase a spare one for a family. It's easy and affordable to get a replacement BMW fob, and program it into your vehicle. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can offer you an alternative key fob. A new key fob costs between $400 and $650 based on the kind of BMW you drive.
Make sure there is no other ignition key in your BMW before you begin programming the new keyfob. Close all doors in your vehicle. Put your new key fob into the ignition, then quickly move it from position 1 to position 0, and back again. Next, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you've completed this, take off your key and turn the car on. You should hear your vehicle's doors unlock and lock. This indicates that the new key fob was successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you may have a key blade on your key fob, or without. Each key fob has its own process to sync with your car, but the steps for each are almost identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob needs to be inserted in the ignition to start your car.
If you have a BMW with Comfort Access the process is even easier. After you have programmed an entirely new key fob simply connect it to the ignition of your BMW and press the start button.
It is important to keep your BMW key fob in good condition. If you're in search of an entirely new BMW key fob or replacement one, you can reach the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you select the right key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.