What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob is likely to have many functions. It can be used 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 a tiny, rectangular piece of plastic that has several buttons incorporated into its side. The majority of these buttons allow you to lock and unlock your car however, a few are unique. For example, BMW owners can activate an invisible function on their key fob to lower all of their windows at once by pressing the unlock button two times. This is ideal for those who want to cool their vehicle during a hot summer's day.
Another significant function 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 vehicle, the driver needs to first push the lock on the key fob, and then press the circular arrow. For newer BMW models the feature can be used to remotely start the vehicle. This is particularly useful when the driver is late for work and doesn't have time to get out of the car to get the door handle.
Lastly lastly, the BMW key fob can also be utilized to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is particularly useful for people who travel with multiple people, as it is possible to set each individual's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. If you have a hybrid BMW, the key fob can be used to check the status of charging the battery of the vehicle.
While the standard BMW key fobs can handle normal levels of humidity, dropping them into water can cause significant damage. It is best to store the key fob inside its case of protection when it is not in use. If you lose the key fob, a replacement can be provided that will disable it, rendering it useless for thieves. This can be done by contacting the dealer or one of our technicians. You can purchase a replacement BMW key fob to restore the functionality of your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were once huge, clunky rectangular shapes in black that from a distance looked like a bottle-opener. They were simple but functional. Then BMW began to make them a little 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 reduced the rough edges of the key which could pierce bags or pockets, and made the keys easier to hold.
BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the features of your vehicle in your hand. The BMW key fob features an LCD screen which allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, operate the air conditioning and display the vehicle's information. Even hybrid models come with remote parking!
BMW Digital Keys are an excellent replacement if you need to replace the BMW key fob. Simply use your smartphone to replace the BMW key fob and then unlock your car! This feature is available on 2021 and more recent BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is another innovative key from BMW that lets you start your vehicle and operate certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control your car’s climate control and monitor battery levels. You can see how much fuel remains in your car if it has this feature.
The process of replacing the BMW Digital Key is the same, whether you use a traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. You'll have to bring your original key and the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will help you with everything. You can also purchase an BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover replacement costs in the event that your keys are 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 render it useless. This is accomplished five times by rapidly changing the key from position one to position zero and back. Then, turn it to position zero 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 Apple Watch or smartphone and is compatible with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the car 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 via encrypted signals. This makes it difficult for hackers to intercept and replicate the signal. Additionally, the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is moving while it's being carried. The system employs an alarm to prevent unauthorized starting and disables ignition switch.
BMW also provides a variety of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob isn't in close proximity to the vehicle. This feature is available in many of the brand's models and provides additional security.
BMW's more sophisticated models include keyless entry, which allows drivers to access their car without having to manually inserting a key or pressing any buttons. This feature is usually activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times within one second. In certain situations, you may need to press the button to lock the fob three times to then switch on an additional remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people choose to carry their BMW key fob in a signal-blocking pouch, which reduces the risk of a third-party broadcasting the identification signal from the fob and using it to gain access to the car. Some prefer using a standard case, which doesn't have this feature, but it does protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals using signal amplifiers to boost the identification signals. This kind of attack is referred to as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping your key fob in a signal-blocking pocket or by installing a signal-blocking app on your phone.
Replacement
Everyone has had this experience - the battery in your BMW key fob goes out or you have to purchase a spare one for a family. Fortunately, finding an alternative BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and inexpensive. You can purchase a replacement from any dealership or locksmith that is authorized by BMW. A new key fob is likely to cost between $400 and $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 in your vehicle. Then you'll need to insert the new key fob into the ignition, and switch it to position 1 before turning back to position 0 five times rapidly. Hold the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, remove the key and switch on the vehicle. The doors will lock and unlock, indicating that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Based on the car model depending on the model of your car, you could have an ignition key fob with a physical key blade inside it or a key fob without one. The process of synchronizing new fobs with your car is different for each one however the steps are nearly identical. The only difference is the metal key fob will need to be put into the ignition to start your vehicle.
If replacement key for bmw you own an BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process is even simpler. Once you have programmed your new key fob into your BMW then, you can insert it into the ignition and press start.
While your BMW is a fantastic way to get around Decatur, it is important that you keep your key fob in good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department can assist you find a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you select the right key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.