What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob could have many functions. It can be used for many things, including unlocking your doors, controlling your windows as well as starting the engine.
There are some tricks you might not be aware of. Let's take a look some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small, rectangular piece of plastic that has several buttons incorporated into its side. Most of these buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, but a few have more unique functions. For example, BMW owners can activate an in-built function on their key fob to lower all of their windows at once by pressing the unlock button twice. This is ideal for those who want to cool their vehicle during the scorching summer days.
The BMW key fob can also be used to start your vehicle. This feature is a great safety precaution and prevents unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, drivers must first press the lock button on the key fob, then press the circular arrow. For newer BMW models the feature can be used to remotely start the vehicle. This feature is especially useful when the driver is late to work and doesn't have time to open the door.
Additionally, the BMW key fob can be utilized to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is especially helpful for those who travel with multiple people as each key fob can be used to set the temperature for each individual. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to check the battery's charging status.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. It is recommended to keep the key fob inside its case of protection when it is not in use. If you happen to lose the key fob, a service is available to disable it, rendering it unusable for thieves. Contacting the dealer or our 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 once big, clunky black rectangles that looked kind of like a bottle opener from the distance. They were simple, but useful. Then BMW began to make them a little more compact and added a case made of plastic around the base of the key, which made it look nicer and less like an opener for bottles. This new design also reduced rough edges on the key that could poke into pockets or bags, and made the 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, operate your air conditioning, and see the information about your vehicle on a tiny touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!
If you're in need of an upgrade key fob, you can have the same great functionality with the BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your vehicle by using your smartphone, when you own an appropriate model. This feature is available for 2021 and newer BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another new and exciting key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which allows you to start your car and operate certain features using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely control your car's climate control and check battery levels and much more! You can also see how much gas is left in your tank, in the event that your car is equipped with this feature.
If you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process for getting the replacement is the same. You'll have to bring your original key along with 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 cover the costs of a replacement in the event that your keys get lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing you have to do is reset the key. This will erase all programming and render it useless. This is accomplished by turning the key from position one and 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 vehicle. The fob works with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle, start the engine, and more. It also allows you to share the key with up to five others.
The key fob transmits encrypted signals to the vehicle. It check here is therefore extremely difficult for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. In addition to this, the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is moving when it is being carried. The system employs 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 is not within close proximity to the car. This feature is available on a variety of BMW models and offers additional peace of mind.
Many of the more advanced BMW models offer keyless access, which allows drivers to enter and start the vehicle without having manually use any buttons or insert the physical key. This feature is typically activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times in the span of a second. In some instances, you may need to press the button to lock the fob three times, and then switch on the remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW key fob in a pouch with a signal blocker that reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting the identifying signal from the fob and using it to access the car. Some prefer using a standard case, which does not have the feature, but it does protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars have been stolen by thieves who used a signal amplifier to increase the signal that identifies. This type of attack, known as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob into a pocket that blocks signals, or by installing an application on your smartphone 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 new BMW fob, and program it into your vehicle. You can purchase an alternative from any dealer or locksmith who is authorized by BMW. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650, depending 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. Place your new key fob into the ignition, and quickly turn it from position 1 to 0, and then back to position 1. Next, 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 vehicle on. You should hear your vehicle's doors unlock and lock. This indicates that the new key fob was successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you might either have a key blade inside your key fob or without. Each one has a distinct process to sync with your car, however the steps for each are almost identical. The only difference is the metal key fob needs to be placed into the ignition to start your car.
If you own a BMW with Comfort Access the process is much simpler. Once you have programmed your new key fob into your BMW and inserted it into the ignition and press start.
While your BMW is a great way to travel around Decatur however, it is vital that you keep your key fob in good working condition. If you're looking for an updated BMW key fob, or a replacement for your existing one, contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can assist you in selecting the right key fob and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.