What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have an BMW you are likely to find that your key fob has many functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, manage your windows and even start your engine.
There are some tricks you might not know about. Let's take a look some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is an incredibly small piece of plastic with several buttons incorporated into its sides. The majority of these buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, and certain buttons have additional functions. BMW owners, for example, can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is ideal for those looking to cool down their car in the heat of summer.
The BMW key fob can be used to start your car. This is a wonderful 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 start the vehicle remotely. This feature is particularly useful when the driver is late for work and doesn't have the time to pull the door handle.
The BMW key fob also has the capability of controlling the interior climate system. This is especially convenient for those who travel with several individuals, as it's possible to set each individual's preferred temperature using their own key fob. For those who have hybrid BMW key fob can be used to monitor the charging status of the vehicle's battery.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. It is recommended to keep the key fob in its case that is protected when not in use. If you happen to lose the key fob, a service can be offered to deactivate it, making it unusable for thieves. This can be accomplished by contacting the dealer or one of our technicians. You can purchase a new BMW key fob to restore the functionality of your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were once big, clunky rectangles in black that from a distance looked like a bottle opener. They were basic, but they served a purpose. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it look more attractive and less like an opener for keys. The new design also trimmed rough edges on the key that could get into pockets or bags and made keys easier for you to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all of your vehicle's functionality in the palm of your hand. It lets you lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and view the information about your vehicle on a tiny LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!
If you're in need of a replacement, you can get the same functionality and features with a BMW Digital Key. You can use any smartphone compatible to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your car! This feature is only available on BMW vehicles manufactured after 2021 using the iDrive 8 system.
Another exciting new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which lets you start your car and operate certain features using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely manage your car's climate control and check battery levels and much more! You can see the amount of fuel 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 a replacement is similar. Our technicians will help you with the process if you bring your old key and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also choose to purchase a BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the costs of a replacement in the event that keys get 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 accomplished by turning the key from position one, then back in quick succession, five times in one row. Then switch the key to zero and then remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a efficient way to start your vehicle. The fob works with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle and start the engine and much more. It also allows you to share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob communicates with vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it difficult for hackers to intercept and clone the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even if the device is in motion. The system also uses an inbuilt alarm system to block unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.
BMW offers a variety of security options that can be added. Passive Start is one of them. It disables the starter motor when the key fob does remain in close proximity to your vehicle. This feature is available on many of the brand's models and gives you security.
BMW's most advanced models come with keyless entry that allows drivers to access their car without having to manually insert a key or press any buttons. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob within one second. In some cases, you may need to press the button to lock the fob three times to then turn on a separate remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW keyfob in a bag that blocks signals. This decreases the possibility that a third party broadcasts the unique code that is on the fob to gain access to the vehicle. Some prefer using an ordinary case that does not come with the feature, but still protects the fob against scratches.
Some BMW owners reported that their cars were snatched by criminals using signal amplifiers to boost the identifying signals. 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 installing an app that blocks signals on your phone.
Replacement
Everybody has experienced this: the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you need to buy a spare one for a family. Luckily, purchasing the replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and inexpensive. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths can sell you the replacement key fob. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650, depending 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. It is also recommended to shut all doors inside your vehicle. Next, insert your new key fob in the ignition, and switch it to position 1 before turning return to position 0 five times in rapid succession. Press the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, remove the key and then turn on the car. You should hear the doors lock and unlock, indicating that your new key more info fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you may have an ignition key fob with 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 car, however the steps for each are almost identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob needs to be inserted in the ignition to begin your car.
If you own a BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process is even simpler. After you have programmed a new key fob, simply insert it into your BMW's ignition and press the start button.
While your BMW is a fantastic vehicle to get around Decatur, it is important to keep your key fob in a good condition. If you are looking for a new BMW key fob, or a replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you select the right key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.