What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own an BMW it is likely that your key fob has a lot of functions. It can be used for a variety of purposes, including unlocking your doors, controlling your windows, and even starting the engine.
There are a few tricks you might not be aware of. Let's take a look at some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a tiny, rectangular piece of plastic, with many buttons built into its side. The majority of these buttons unlock and lock the car, but a few are distinctive. For instance, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on their key fob to lower all of their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button two times. This is a great option for those who wish to cool down their vehicle during the summer heat.
The BMW key fob can also be used to start your car. This is a security measure that prevents unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the engine, drivers must first press the lock button on the key fob, then press the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to remotely start the vehicle. This feature is especially useful when a driver is late to work and doesn't have time to turn the door.
Additionally lastly, the BMW key fob may also be utilized to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is especially helpful for people who travel with several individuals as each key fob can be used to set the preferred temperature for each person. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to monitor the battery's charge status.
Dropping them into water is not recommended. It's best to store the key fob inside its case of protection when not in use. If you have lost your key fob, we can offer a service that will deactivate the device, rendering it useless to thieves. Contacting the dealer or one of our technicians will do this. You can purchase a new BMW key fob to repair your car's functionality.
Design
BMW key fobs were once huge rectangular black pieces that looked like an opener for bottles from a distance. 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 the key opener. The new design also trimmed rough edges on the keys that could get into bags or pockets, and made the keys more comfortable to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the functions of your vehicle in the palm of your hand. The BMW key fob has an LCD screen that allows you to lock and unlock your car, control the air conditioning, and access the vehicle's information. Even hybrid models come with remote parking!
BMW Digital Keys are a great alternative if you want to replace the BMW key fob. You can use any smartphone compatible to replace the BMW key fob and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is available on 2021 or more recent BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is another cool new key from BMW that allows you to start your car and use certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control the climate control of your car as well as check the battery level and much more! You can even check how you've got gas left in your tank in the event that your car is equipped with this feature.
Whether you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting a replacement is similar. You'll have to bring your original key along with the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will help you with everything. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover replacement costs if your keys get lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first step is to reset the key, which will erase any programming it has and make it unusable. This is accomplished by turning the key to position one and back quickly, five times in a row. Then, turn it to position zero and take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. The fob is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It allows you to unlock your vehicle and then start the engine. It also allows you to share the key with up to five others.
The key fob is encrypted and transmits signals to the vehicle. It is therefore impossible for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. In addition to this, the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even when the fob is moving while it's being carried. The system employs an alarm to block unauthorised starting and disables the ignition switch.
BMW also offers a range of security options that are available, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob isn't in close proximity to the vehicle. This feature is offered on a number of BMW models and can provide an additional level of security.
BMW's more advanced models feature keyless entry, which lets 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 in the span of a second. In some cases it may be necessary to press the lock button on the fob three times to then switch on an additional remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people keep their BMW key fob in a case that blocks signals. This decreases the possibility of a third-party broadcasting the unique code that is on the fob in order to gain access to the car. Some people prefer to use a standard case that does not come with the feature, but it still protects the fob against scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars were snatched by criminals using an amplifier for signal strength to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This kind of attack, also known as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob into a pocket 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 goes out or you need to buy an extra one for your family. It's simple and inexpensive to get a replacement BMW fob, and then program it into your car. You can purchase an alternative from any dealer or locksmith that is authorized by BMW. A new key fob will typically cost between $400 and $650, depending on the kind of BMW you drive.
Make sure that there isn't other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming the new keyfob. Close all doors in your vehicle. Place your new key fob into the ignition, then quickly turn it from position 1 to position 0, and back to position 1. Press the unlock button, then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, take off the key and then turn on the car. The doors will unlock and lock, which indicates that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you could either have a key blade inside your key fob, or without. Each key fob has its own method of synchronizing with your car, however the steps for each are identical. The only difference is that the key fob that has a metallic key inside will need to be placed in the ignition whenever you want to start the car.
If you own an BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process check here is even more straightforward. Once you have programmed your new key fob to your BMW, insert it in the ignition and press start.
It is important to ensure that your BMW key fob in working condition. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you find a new BMW fob or replacement. We can help you find the perfect key fob for your vehicle and even upgrade your BMW with the Comfort Access upgrade to enable keyless entry and engine starting.