What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have a BMW, chances are that your key fob is equipped with many functions. It can be used for many things, including unlocking your doors, controlling your windows and even starting your engine.
There are a few tricks you might not be aware of. Here are a few of the most effective.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small, rectangular piece of plastic with several buttons incorporated into its side. Most of these buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, but some have additional functions. BMW owners, for example can activate a hidden function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is a great option for those who want to cool their vehicle during a hot summer day.
The BMW key fob can also be used to start your vehicle. This feature is a safety measure that prevents unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver must first press the lock on the key fob and 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 does not have the time to pull the door handle.
Finally, the BMW key fob can be used to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is particularly convenient for those traveling with multiple people as each key fob is able to set the temperature for each person. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to check the battery's charging status.
While standard BMW key fobs can withstand normal levels of water, dropping them into water can cause significant damage. It is recommended to keep the key fob inside its case of protection when it is not in use. If you lose the key fob, a solution can be offered to deactivate it, making it unusable for thieves. Contacting our dealer or technicians will do this. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob can be purchased to restore full functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were large, clunky rectangles of black that, from a distance, looked like a bottle opener. They were simple but functional. Then BMW began to make them more compact and added a case made of plastic around the base of the key, which made it look nicer and less like an opener for bottles. The new design also trimmed 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 functions of your car in your hand. It lets you lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and display vehicle information on a small LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models can have remote parking!
BMW Digital Keys are a fantastic alternative if you want to replace the BMW key fob. Just use your compatible smartphone to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is available on 2021 or later BMW cars that use the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is another amazing new key from BMW that allows you to start your car and use certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to control the climate control of your car and monitor battery levels. You can also see how much fuel remains in your car if it has this feature.
The procedure for replacing a BMW Digital Key is the same regardless of whether you're using the traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. Our technicians will assist you with the process when you bring your old key and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase an BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover replacement costs when 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 will erase all programming and render it useless. This is done by turning the key to position one and back quickly five times in the same row. Then switch the key until it is at zero and take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. The fob works with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle or start the engine and more. You can also share the key with five others.
The key fob transmits encrypted signals to the vehicle. This makes it impossible for hackers to steal 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 transported. The system also incorporates a built-in alarm to prevent non-authorized starts and disables ignition switch which is a frequent target for thieves.
BMW also provides a variety of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob is not near to the car. This feature is available in several models from the brand and provides additional security.
Many of the more advanced BMW models have keyless access, which allows drivers to get in and start the vehicle without having to manually press any buttons or insert the physical key. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button of the fob in a single second. In some cases, you may need to press the button to lock the fob three times to then activate the remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people prefer to carry their BMW key fob in a signal-blocking pouch which minimizes the possibility of a third-party broadcasting the identification signal from the fob and allowing access to the car. Some people prefer to use a standard case, which doesn't have this feature, but still protects the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their vehicles were stolen by criminals who just employed a signal amplifier to increase the signal that identifies. This kind of attack is referred to as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping the key fob in a signal-blocking pocket or by using a signal-blocking app on your phone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you require an extra battery for a family member. Thankfully, getting an alternative BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and affordable. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths can sell you the replacement key fob. A new key fob is likely to cost between $400 and $650, based on the model of BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob for your BMW first, ensure that there is no other key in the ignition. Close all doors of your vehicle. Put your new key fob in the ignition, and quickly move it from position 1 to position 0, and back to position 1. Then, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you've completed this, remove your key and turn your car on. The vehicle's doors unlock and lock. This indicates that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the car model depending on the model of your car, you could have a key fob that has an actual key blade in it, or a fob without one. The procedure for syncing new fobs to your car is different for each one, but the steps are similar. The only difference is that click here the metal key fob needs to be placed in the ignition to start your car.
If you have an BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process is even easier. Once you have programmed your new key fob into your BMW, insert it in the ignition and press start.
It is important to keep your BMW key fob in good in good working order. Patrick BMW's parts department can assist you locate a new BMW fob or replacement. We can help you find the right key fob for your vehicle and even upgrade your BMW by introducing an upgrade to Comfort Access to enable keyless entry and engine starting.