What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob probably has numerous functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, manage your windows and even start your engine.
There are a few tricks you may not be aware of. Here are some of the most effective.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a tiny, rectangular piece of plastic, with several buttons incorporated into its side. Most of these buttons allow you to lock and unlock your car however, some are distinctive. For instance, BMW owners can activate an in-built function on their key fob to lower all of their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button twice. This is a great option for those who want to cool down their car during a hot summer day.
Another important benefit of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This is a wonderful safety precaution and prevents unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the car, the driver has to first press the lock on the fob of the key and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to remotely start the vehicle. This feature is particularly useful when the driver is running late to work and doesn't have the time to pull the door handle.
Additionally lastly, the BMW key fob may also be used to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is particularly convenient for those traveling with multiple people since each key fob can be used to determine the preferred temperature for each individual. For those who have a hybrid BMW key fob, it can be used to monitor the charging status of the battery in the vehicle.
While standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of moisture, dropping them in 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 happen to lose the key fob, a replacement can be offered to disable it, making it unusable for thieves. This can be done by contact with the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob can then be purchased to restore full functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were big, clunky rectangles in black that from a distance looked like a bottle-opener. They were simple, but useful. Then BMW began to make them smaller and also added a plastic case around the key's base that made it look nicer and less like 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 for you to hold.
BMW then introduced the Display Key which puts all the functions of your car in your palm. The BMW key fob comes with small LCD screens which allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, operate the air conditioning and display the vehicle's information. It even offers remote parking on hybrid models!
BMW Digital Keys are an excellent replacement if you need to replace your BMW key fob. You can unlock your car with your smartphone when you own a compatible model. This feature is available on 2021 and later BMW cars that use the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is another innovative key from BMW that allows you to start your car and control certain features using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely manage your car's climate control as well as check the battery level and much more! You can even see how much gas is left in your tank in the event that your car is equipped with this feature.
No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process for getting a replacement is similar. read more Our experts will assist you with the process if you bring your old key and the new one to Patrick BMW. You can also 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 thing to do is reset the key. This erases all programming and render it inoperable. This is accomplished by turning the key to position one and back quickly five times in a row. Then switch the key to zero and then remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a efficient way to start your car. The fob is compatible with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle, start the engine, and more. It also allows you to share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob communicates with vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it impossible for hackers to intercept and replicate the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even when it is moving. The system also incorporates a built-in alarm to prevent non-authorized starts and disables ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.
BMW also provides a variety of optional security features, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob isn't within close proximity to the vehicle. This feature is offered on a number of BMW models and provides additional security.
Many of the more advanced BMW models offer keyless access that lets drivers enter and start the vehicle without having manually use any buttons or insert the physical key. This feature is typically activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times in the span of a second. In some instances, you may need to press the button to lock the fob three times, and then activate the remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW keyfob in a pouch that blocks signals. This reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting the unique code that is on the fob in order to gain access to the car. Others prefer to use an ordinary key case which does not have this feature, but can protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals using signal amplifiers to boost the identification signals. This kind of attack is known as "Relay Attack" and can be avoided by keeping the key fob in a signal blocking pocket or by using a signal-blocking app on your smartphone.
Replacement
Everyone has had this experience - the battery in your BMW key fob fails or you have to purchase another one for your family. Luckily, purchasing a replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your car is simple and affordable. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can sell you an alternative key fob. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650 based on the model of BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob to your BMW first, ensure that there is no other key in the ignition. Close all doors in your vehicle. Then, insert the new key fob into the ignition, and move it to position 1 before turning back 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 switch on the vehicle. The doors will lock and unlock, indicating that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you might have a key blade in your key fob or that isn't. The process of synchronizing new fobs with your car is different for each however, the steps are nearly identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob has to be placed in the ignition to begin your car.
If you own a BMW with Comfort Access the process is even easier. Once you have programmed your new key fob into your BMW and inserted it into the ignition and press start.
It is crucial to keep your BMW key fob in working condition. If you're in search of an entirely new BMW key fob or replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you select the correct key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.