What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own an BMW it is likely that your key fob comes with numerous functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, control your windows and even start your engine.
There are some tricks you might not be aware of. Let's look at some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic that has a number of buttons integrated into its side. The majority of these buttons allow you to lock and unlock your car however, a few are distinct. BMW owners, for instance, can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is perfect for those who want to cool their vehicle on a hot summer day.
The BMW key fob can also be used to begin your car. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver has 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 car. This is especially useful when the driver is late for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car to get the door.
The BMW key fob can also be used for controlling the interior climate system. This is especially useful for those traveling with multiple people since each key fob can be used to set the temperature for each individual. If you have a hybrid BMW key fob can be used to monitor the state of charge of the battery of the vehicle.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. It's recommended to keep the key fob in a secure case when not in use. If you lose the key fob, a replacement is available to disable it, rendering it useless for thieves. Contacting the dealer or our technicians can do this. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob can be purchased to restore full functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs used to be large, clunky black rectangles that looked like an opener for bottles from a distance. They were basic, but useful. BMW then made them smaller and put a plastic casing around the base to make it look more attractive and less like the key opener. This new design also reduced rough edges on the key which could pierce bags or pockets, and made the keys more comfortable to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all of your vehicle's functionality in the palm of your hand. It lets you lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and see the vehicle's information on a small touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!
If you're in need of an alternative key fob, you can have the same great functionality with a BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your car by using your smartphone, when you own an appropriate model. This feature is only available on BMW vehicles built after 2021 that use the iDrive 8 system.
Another new and exciting key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which allows you to start your vehicle and operate certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely manage your car's climate control and check the battery level. You can even check how much gas is left in your tank if the car is equipped with this feature.
The process for replacing the BMW Digital Key is the same, whether you use an old-fashioned key or a BMW Digital Key. Our experts will assist you in the process if you bring your old key 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 if your keys are 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 inoperable. This is done five times, by shifting the key from position one to position zero and back. Then, turn it back to zero and then take off the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a efficient method to start your car. The fob works with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the vehicle and also start the 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 extremely difficult for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even when it is moving. The system uses an alarm to prevent unauthorized starting and disables the ignition switch.
BMW offers a variety of optional security features. Passive Start is one such feature that will disable the starter motor if the key fob does not remain within close proximity to your car. This feature is available in several models from the brand and gives you security.
BMW's more advanced models feature keyless entry, which lets users to start their vehicle without having to manually insert a key or press any buttons. This feature is usually activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times in a single second. In some cases, you may need to press the button to lock the fob three times to then switch on an additional remote start feature within the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW keyfob in a pouch that blocks signals. This minimizes the risk that a third party broadcasts the identification code from the fob to gain access to the vehicle. Some prefer using an ordinary case that does not come with the feature, but it does protect the fob against scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their cars were stolen by thieves who utilized a signal amplifier in order to boost the identifying signal. This type of attack, referred to as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob in pockets that block signals, or by utilizing an app on your phone to block signals.
Replacement
It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you require an extra battery for someone in your family. It's simple and inexpensive to purchase a new BMW fob, and then program it into your car. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can offer you the replacement key fob. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650, depending on the type BMW you drive.
Make sure that there isn't other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming a new keyfob. Close all the doors of your vehicle. Place your new key fob into the ignition and swiftly change it from position 1 to zero, and then back to position 1. Hold the unlock button and quickly press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, remove the key and turn on the car. The doors should unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you could have a key blade inside your key fob, or without. The process of synchronizing new fobs with your car differs for each however, the steps are nearly identical. The only difference is the metal key fob has to be inserted into the ignition to start your vehicle.
If you own a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is even easier. After you've programmed the new key fob, simply insert it into the ignition of your car and press the start button.
While your BMW is a fantastic way to get read more around Decatur however, it is vital that you keep your key fob in good working condition. If you are looking for an entirely new BMW key fob or replacement one, you can reach the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you find the right key fob for your vehicle and can upgrade your BMW by introducing an upgrade to Comfort Access to enable keyless entry as well as engine starting.