What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob probably has numerous functions. You can use it for a variety of purposes, including unlocking your doors, controlling your windows, and even starting the engine.
However, there are some secrets you might not know about. Here are a few of the most effective.
Functions
The BMW key fob consists of an incredibly small piece of plastic with a number buttons embedded into its sides. The majority of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, however some have additional functions. For example, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on their key fob to lower all their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button two times. This is ideal for those who want to cool their vehicle on the scorching summer days.
Another major purpose of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the vehicle. This feature is a safety measure that prevents unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver must first press the lock on the fob of the key and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to start the vehicle remotely. This is particularly useful when the driver is in a hurry for work and doesn't have time to get out of the car to get the door.
The BMW key fob can also be used for controlling the internal climate system. This is particularly useful for those who travel with multiple individuals, as it's possible to set each person's preferred temperature with their own key fob. If you have a hybrid BMW, the key fob can be used to determine the status of charging the battery of the vehicle.
While the standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of water, dropping them into water can cause significant damage. It is best to store the key fob in its protective case when not in use. If you lose the key fob, a replacement can be provided that will disable it, rendering it useless for thieves. This can be done by contacting the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob can then be purchased to restore full functionality to your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were once big, clunky black rectangles that looked like an open bottle from a distance. They were simple but functional. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it look more appealing and less like a key opener. The new design also trimmed rough edges on the keys which could pierce pockets or bags and made keys easier for you to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the functions of your vehicle in the palm of 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 offers remote parking on hybrid models!
If you're in need of an alternative key fob, you can have the same functionality and features with the BMW Digital Key. You can use any smartphone compatible to replace the BMW key fob and unlock your car! This feature is available for 2021 and more recent BMW vehicles that are equipped with the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is another cool new key from BMW that lets you start your car and use certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control your car's climate control and check battery levels and much more! You can 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're using the traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. 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 purchase a BMW Key Protection plan, which will pay for the cost of a replacement in the event that keys get lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing to do is reset the key. This erases all programming and render it unusable. This is done by turning the key from position one, then back quickly five times in one row. Then, you turn it back to zero and then take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a convenient method to start your car. The fob works with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle or start the engine and more. It also lets you share the key with up to five others.
The key fob communicates with the vehicle via encrypted signals. This makes it impossible for hackers to steal and clone the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even when it is moving. The system also uses an inbuilt alarm system to block unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.
BMW offers a range of security options that can be added. Passive Start is one feature that disables the starter motor when the key fob does not remain in close proximity to your vehicle. This feature is available on many BMW models and provides additional security.
BMW's more sophisticated models include keyless entry, which lets users to start their car without having to manually inserting a website key or pressing any buttons. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob within one second. In some instances, you may need to press the lock on the fob 3 times in order to activate a remote start feature on the steering wheel or dashboard.
Some people choose to carry 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 using it to gain access to the car. Some prefer using a standard case that doesn't have this feature, but still protects the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals who used an amplifier for signal strength to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This kind of attack, referred to as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob in an area that blocks signals, or by utilizing an app on your phone to block signals.
Replacement
Everyone has had this experience - the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you need to buy another one for your family. It's easy and affordable to purchase a replacement BMW fob, and then program it into your car. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can offer you an alternative key fob. A new key fob costs between $400 and $650 based on the type BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob to your BMW, first make sure that there is no other key in the ignition. Close all doors of your vehicle. Put your new key fob in the ignition, then quickly turn it from position 1 to position 0, and back to position 1. Hold the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, take off the key and turn on the vehicle. The doors will unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Based on the car model depending on the model of your car, you could have a key fob that has an actual key blade in it, or a fob without one. The process of synchronizing new fobs to your vehicle is different for each however the steps are nearly identical. The only difference is that the key fob that has a metallic key inside will need to be put into the ignition when you are ready to start your car.
If you own an BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process is even easier. After you have programmed the new key fob, simply connect it to your BMW's ignition and press the start button.
While your BMW is a fantastic vehicle to get around Decatur It is crucial that you keep your key fob in good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department can help you locate a new BMW fob or replacement. We can help you find the right key fob for your car and can upgrade your BMW by introducing a Comfort Access upgrade to enable keyless entry as well as engine starting.