What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own a BMW you are likely to find that your key fob has a lot of functions. You can use it for a variety of purposes, including unlocking your doors, adjusting your windows as well as starting the engine.
There are some tricks you might not know about. Let's take a look at some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a tiny, rectangular piece of plastic that has many buttons built into its side. The majority of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, however a few have more unique functions. BMW owners, for instance, can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is a great option for those who want to cool their vehicle during a hot summer day.
Another major benefit of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the vehicle. This is a security measure to ensure that no one is able to gain access to the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver must 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 car. This is particularly useful in situations where the driver is running late for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car to open the door handle.
The BMW key fob also has the capability of controlling the internal climate system. This is especially helpful for those traveling with multiple people as each key fob can be used to determine the preferred temperature for each individual. If you own hybrid BMW, the key fob can be used to determine the status of charging the battery in the vehicle.
Dropping them into water is not recommended. For this reason, it's a good idea to keep the key fob in a safe case when not in use. If you lose your key fob, we can offer a service that will disable the device, rendering it useless to thieves. Contacting our dealer or technicians will be able to do this. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob could be purchased to restore functionality to your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were big rectangular black pieces that looked like an open bottle from a distance. They were basic, but they served a purpose. Then BMW began to make them smaller and also added a plastic case around the base of the key, which made it appear more elegant and a little less like an opener for bottles. This new design also reduced rough edges on the key which could pierce pockets or bags and made the keys more comfortable to hold.
BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the features of your vehicle in your hand. It lets you lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and display vehicle information on a small touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!
BMW Digital Keys are a great replacement if you need to replace your BMW key fob. Simply use your smartphone to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is only available to BMW vehicles manufactured after 2021 with the iDrive 8 system.
Another exciting new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that allows you to start your vehicle and use certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to manage your car's climate control and monitor battery levels. You can even check how you've got gas 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 the replacement is the same. 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 choose to purchase a BMW Key Protection plan, which will pay for the cost of a replacement if your keys are stolen or lost.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing you need to do is reset the key. This will erase all programming and render it unusable. This is done by turning the key from position one and back in rapid succession, five times in a row. Then, turn it back to position zero and then pull off the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a easy method to start your vehicle. It is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and is compatible with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the vehicle and also start the engine. It also lets you share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob communicates encrypted signals with the vehicle. It is therefore extremely difficult for hackers and cloners, to intercept the signal. In addition the UWB technology in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even if the fob is in motion while it's being carried. The system also has an inbuilt alarm system to block unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch which is a frequent target for thieves.
BMW also offers a range of optional security features, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob is not within close proximity to the vehicle. This feature is available on a variety of BMW models and can provide an additional level of security.
Many of the more advanced BMW models have keyless access, which allows drivers to enter and start the vehicle without having manually press any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob in just one second. In some instances, you may need to press the button to lock the fob three times, and then switch on an additional remote start feature in the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people prefer to carry their BMW key fob in a pouch with a signal blocker, which reduces the risk of a third-party broadcasting the signal that identifies the fob and allowing access to the car. Others prefer to use an ordinary key case that does not come with this feature but will still protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars were stolen by criminals using signal amplifiers to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This type of attack is known as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping your key fob in a signal blocking pocket or by using an app that blocks signals on your phone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery goes out, or you need an extra battery for your family member. Luckily, purchasing the replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your car is simple and affordable. You can purchase the replacement from any bmw keys dealership or locksmith that is authorized by BMW. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650 depending on the model of BMW you drive.
Make sure that there isn't other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming a new keyfob. You should also close all doors inside your vehicle. Then you'll need to insert your new key fob in the ignition and move it to position 1 before turning back to position 0 five times in rapid succession. Then, hold down the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you've completed this, remove the key and switch on the vehicle. You should hear your vehicle's doors unlock and lock. This indicates that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you could have a key blade in your key fob or without. Each one has a distinct process to sync with your vehicle, but the steps for each are identical. The only difference is that a key fob that has a metal key in it needs to be inserted into the ignition when you are ready to start your car.
If you own a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is even easier. Once you have programmed a new key fob, simply insert it into the ignition of your car and press the start button.
It is crucial to ensure that your BMW key fob in working order. 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 locate the right key fob for your car and can upgrade your BMW by introducing the Comfort Access upgrade to allow keyless entry and engine starting.