What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have an BMW, chances are that your key fob has numerous functions. You can use it to do a variety of things, such as opening your doors, controlling your windows, and even starting the engine.
There are some tricks that 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 a number of buttons integrated into its side. The majority of these buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, however a few have more unique functions. BMW owners, for example, can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for those who wish to cool down their car during a hot summer's day.
The BMW key fob can also be used to begin your vehicle. This feature is a great security precaution that prevents unauthorised entry into the vehicle. To start the vehicle, the driver needs to first turn off the lock on the fob of the key and then press the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to remotely start the car. This is particularly useful when the driver is late for work and doesn't have time to get out of the car to open the door.
Lastly it is worth noting that the BMW key fob can also be used to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is especially helpful for those who travel with multiple individuals as each key fob is able to set the preferred temperature of each person. If you own a hybrid BMW, the key fob can be used to determine the charging status of the vehicle's battery.
While the standard BMW key fobs can withstand normal levels of water, dropping them into water can cause serious damage. It is recommended to keep the key fob in its case that is protected when not in use. If you lose your key fob we can offer a service that will disable the device, making it inaccessible to thieves. This can be done by contacting the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob could be purchased to restore full functionality to your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were once 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 smaller and put a plastic case around the base of the key, which made it look more attractive and less like an opener for bottles. The new design also reduced rough edges on the keys that could poke into bags or pockets and made the keys easier for you to hold.
BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your hand. It allows you to lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and see the vehicle's information on a small touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models come with remote parking!
BMW Digital Keys are a great replacement if you need 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 for 2021 and more recent BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is another cool new key from BMW that lets you start your car and control certain functions using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely manage your car's climate control and check battery levels and much more! You can also see how much fuel is left 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. Our technicians will assist you with the process if you bring both the old and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also choose to purchase a BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the cost of a replacement if 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 will erase any programming that was stored on it and render it inoperable. This is done five times by rapidly changing the key from one position to zero and back. Then, turn the key until it is at zero and take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a convenient method to start your vehicle. The fob pairs 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 connects to the vehicle via encrypted signals. It is therefore impossible for hackers and cloners, to intercept the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even if the device is moving. The system utilizes an alarm to block unauthorised starting and disables ignition switch.
BMW also offers a variety of security options that are available, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob isn't near to the vehicle. This feature is offered on a number of BMW models and offers additional security.
BMW's more sophisticated models include keyless entry, which allows drivers to access their vehicle without having manually inserting a key or pressing any buttons. This feature is usually activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times in a single second. In some instances, you may have to press the lock on the fob three times to activate the remote start feature on the dashboard or steering wheel.
Some people prefer to carry here their BMW key fob in a pouch with a signal blocker, which reduces the risk of a third party broadcasting the identification signal from the fob and allowing access to the car. Some prefer using a standard case, which does not have the feature, but it does protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their vehicles were stolen by criminals who just employed a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signal. 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 installing an app that blocks signals on your phone.
Replacement
Everyone has had this experience - the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you'll need to purchase a spare one for a family. Luckily, purchasing a replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your car is easy and inexpensive. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can offer you a replacement key fob. A new key fob is likely to cost between $400 and $650, depending on the kind of BMW you drive.
Check to see if there is other ignition key in your BMW before you begin programming a new keyfob. Also, close all doors inside your vehicle. Next, insert your new key fob in the ignition, and turn it to position 1, then return to position 0 five times in rapid succession. Then, 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 your key and turn the car on. The doors will unlock and lock, which indicates that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you could have a key blade in your key fob or one that isn't. The process of synchronizing new fobs with your car differs for each, but the steps are similar. The only difference is that the metal key fob needs to be placed in the ignition to start your car.
If you have a BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even easier. Once you have programmed your new key fob to 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 will help you locate a new BMW fob or replacement. We can help you find the right key fob for your car and even upgrade your BMW with the Comfort Access upgrade to enable keyless entry and engine starting.