What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have an BMW it is likely that your key fob comes with many functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, control your windows and even start your engine.
There are some tricks that you might not be aware of. Let's take a look at some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a tiny, rectangular piece of plastic, with a number of buttons integrated into its side. The majority of the buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, but certain buttons have additional functions. BMW owners, for instance can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is ideal for people who wish to cool down their car during the scorching summer days.
The BMW key fob can also be used to start your vehicle. This is a security measure to ensure that no one is able to gain access to the vehicle. To start the vehicle, the driver needs to first turn off the lock on the key fob and then press the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to start the vehicle remotely. This feature is especially beneficial when a driver is running late to work and doesn't have time to turn the door handle.
Additionally, the BMW key fob can be used to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is especially helpful for those who travel with multiple people as each key fob is able to set the preferred temperature for each individual. For those who have a hybrid BMW key fob can be used to determine the status of charging the battery of the vehicle.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. For this reason, it's best to keep the key fob in a protective case when not in use. If you have lost 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 full functionality to your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were big, clunky rectangles in black that from a distance looked like a bottle-opener. They were basic, but they served a purpose. Then BMW started to make them a little smaller and also added an aluminum case around the base of the key, which made it look nicer and a little less like a bottle opener. The new design also trimmed rough edges on the keys that could poke into pockets or bags and made keys easier 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 comes with an LCD screen which allows you to lock and unlock your car, control the air conditioning and view vehicle information. It even offers remote parking on hybrid models!
If you're in need of an alternative for your BMW Digital Key, you can enjoy the same great function with the BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your car using your smartphone provided you have an appropriate model. This feature is available for 2021 and more recent BMW vehicles that are equipped with the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another exciting new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key 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 and check the battery level. You can also see how much fuel remains in your car if it has this feature.
Whether you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process of obtaining an replacement is the same. You'll need to bring your working key along with the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will help you with everything. You can also purchase the BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the costs of a replacement in the event that your keys are lost or stolen.
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 inoperable. This is done by turning the key from position one and then back in quick succession, five times in a row. Then switch the key to position zero and take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a easy way to start your vehicle. The fob is compatible with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle or start the engine and much more. It also lets you share the key with up to five others.
The key fob communicates with the vehicle using encrypted signals. It is therefore impossible for hackers and cloners, to intercept the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents relay attacks even if it is in motion. The system employs an alarm to stop unauthorised starting and disables ignition switch.
BMW offers a variety of optional security features. Passive Start is one such feature that will disable the starter motor if the key fob does not remain website within close proximity to your vehicle. This feature is available on several models from the brand and offers security.
BMW's more sophisticated models include keyless entry that allows users to start their vehicle without having manually insert a key or press any buttons. This feature can be activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob within one second. In certain situations, you might have to press the lock on the fob three times to activate the remote start feature on the steering wheel or dashboard.
Some people keep their BMW key fob in a case that blocks signals. This reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting identification code from the fob to gain access to the car. Some prefer an ordinary key case that does not come with this feature but will still protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their vehicles have been stolen by criminals who just used a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signal. This type of attack is referred to as "Relay Attack" and can be avoided by keeping the key fob in a signal-blocking pocket or by using an app that blocks signals on your phone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you need a spare for a family member. Fortunately, finding the replacement BMW key fob and programming it to your car is easy and affordable. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can sell you the replacement key fob. A new key fob costs between $400 and $650 based on the kind of BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob to your BMW first, make sure that there isn't another key in the ignition. It is also recommended to shut the doors of your vehicle. Then, insert the new key fob into the ignition and switch it to position 1, then return to position 0 five times quickly. Press the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you have finished this, take off your key and turn your car on. You should hear your car's doors unlock and lock. This means that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Depending on your car model You may have a key fob that has an actual key blade in it, or a key fob that does not have one. The process of synchronizing new fobs to your car differs for each however, the steps are almost identical. The only difference is that the key fob that has a metal key in it will need to be placed in the ignition whenever you wish to start the car.
If you have a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is even easier. Once you have programmed an entirely new key fob simply connect it to the ignition of your car and press the start button.
While your BMW is a great way to get around Decatur however, it is vital to keep your key fob in good working condition. If you're in search of a new BMW key fob or replacement for your existing one, contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you locate the perfect key fob for your car, and we can even upgrade your BMW by introducing a Comfort Access upgrade to enable keyless entry and engine starting.