What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own a BMW, chances are that your key fob comes with a lot of functions. You can use it for many things, including unlocking your doors, controlling your windows, and even starting the engine.
But there are some hidden tricks that you might not be aware of. Let's look at some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic that has several buttons incorporated in its side. The majority of these buttons allow you to lock and unlock your car however, a few are unique. For example, BMW owners can activate an invisible function on their key fob to lower all their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for people who wish to cool down their vehicle on the summer heat.
Another important benefit of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This is a security measure to ensure that no one is able to gain access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver has to first press the lock on the key fob, and then the circular arrow. For newer BMW models the feature can be used to remotely start the vehicle. This feature is particularly beneficial when a driver is late for work and doesn't have time to open the door handle.
Lastly lastly, the BMW key fob can also be used to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is especially useful for those who travel with multiple people as each key fob can be used to determine the preferred temperature of each person. If you own hybrid BMW, the key fob can be used to monitor the charging status of the battery in the vehicle.
While the standard BMW key fobs can withstand normal levels of moisture, dropping them in water can cause serious damage. This is why it's a good idea to keep the key fob in a protective case when not in use. If you lose your key fob, we can offer a solution which will deactivate the device, making it inaccessible to thieves. Contacting the dealer or our technicians will do this. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob can be purchased to restore full functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were large rectangular black pieces that looked a bit like a bottle opener from the distance. They were simple but functional. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it appear better and less like an opener for keys. This new design also minimized the rough edges of keys that could pierce pockets or bags and made keys more comfortable to hold.
BMW then introduced the Display Key which puts all the features of your vehicle in your hand. The BMW key fob features an LCD screen that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, control the air conditioning and display the information about your vehicle. Even hybrid models come with remote parking!
BMW Digital Keys are a fantastic replacement option if you have to replace your BMW key fob. You can unlock your vehicle with your smartphone if you have a compatible model. This feature is available on 2021 and newer BMW cars that use the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is a innovative key from BMW that lets you start your car and use certain features using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely manage your car's climate control and monitor battery levels. You can see how much fuel is left in your car if it has this feature.
Whether you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process for getting the replacement is the same. You'll need to bring your working key and the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will assist you with everything. You can also purchase the BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover the cost of replacement in the event that 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 it has and render it inoperable. This is done by turning the key to position one and then back in rapid succession five times in the same row. Then, you turn it back to position zero and take off the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. The fob is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It allows you to unlock your vehicle and also start the engine. You can also share the key with five others.
The key fob connects to the vehicle via encrypted signals. It is therefore extremely difficult for hackers and cloners, to intercept the signal. Additionally the UWB technology used in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even if the fob is moving when it is being carried. The system also incorporates a built-in alarm to prevent unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch which is a frequent target for thieves.
BMW offers a variety of security options that can be added. Passive Start is one feature that disables the starter motor when the key fob doesn't remain close to your car. This feature is available in several models from the brand and offers security.
BMW's more advanced models feature keyless entry, which lets users to start 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 certain situations it may be necessary to press the button to lock the fob three times, and then switch on the remote start feature within the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW key fob in a case that blocks signals. This minimizes the risk that a third party broadcasts the unique code that is on the fob in order to gain access to the vehicle. Some prefer using a standard case that does not have the feature, but it still protects the fob against scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their vehicles have been stolen by website thieves who employed a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signal. This type 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 blocker app on your phone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery fails or you require an extra battery for someone in your family. Fortunately, finding an alternative BMW key fob and programming it into your car is easy and inexpensive. You can purchase an alternative from any dealer or locksmith that is authorized by BMW. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650 depending on the type BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob to your BMW first, ensure that there isn't another key in the ignition. It is also recommended to shut all doors inside your vehicle. Insert your new key fob into the ignition, and quickly turn it from position 1 to 0, and then back again. Hold down the unlock button, then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, take off your key and turn the car on. You should hear your vehicle's doors lock and unlock. This means that the new key fob was successfully programmed.
Depending on your car model You may have keys that have a physical key blade inside it, or a key fob that doesn't have one. Each fob has a different process for synchronizing with your vehicle, but the steps for each are almost identical. The only difference is the metal key fob has to be placed into the ignition to start your car.
If you own a BMW with Comfort Access the process is even simpler. Once you have programmed your new key fob in your BMW and inserted it into the ignition and press start.
It is important to maintain your BMW key fob in working condition. Patrick BMW's parts department can assist you find a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can assist you in selecting the correct key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.