What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own an BMW, chances are that your key fob comes with numerous functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, operate your windows and even start your engine.
There are a few secret techniques that you may not have heard of. Let's take a look some of the most effective ones.
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 lock and unlock the vehicle, but certain buttons have additional functions. For instance, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on the key fob to lower all their windows at once by pressing the unlock button twice. This is ideal for those who want to cool their vehicle on a hot summer day.
The BMW key fob can also be used to begin your vehicle. This is a fantastic security measure and blocks unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the car, the driver must first press the lock on the key fob and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to remotely start the vehicle. This is particularly useful in situations where the driver is late for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car and open the door handle.
The BMW key fob also has the capability of controlling the interior climate system. This is particularly convenient for people who travel with several people since each key fob can be used to determine the preferred temperature of each person. For those who have hybrid BMW key fob, it can be used to monitor the charging status of the vehicle's battery.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. It's best to store the key fob inside its protective case when not in use. If you have lost your key fob, we can provide a service that will deactivate the device, rendering it useless to thieves. This can be done by calling the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob can then be purchased to restore functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were once big, clunky rectangles in black that from a distance looked like a bottle-opener. They were simple, but useful. BMW then made them smaller and put a plastic casing around the base to make it appear more appealing and less like an opener for keys. The new design also trimmed the rough edges of keys which could puncture pockets or bags and made keys easier to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the features of your car in your hand. It allows you to 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 offers remote parking on hybrid models!
BMW Digital Keys are an excellent alternative if you want to replace the BMW key fob. You can unlock your car by using your smartphone, when you own a compatible model. This feature is only available for BMW vehicles built after 2021 using the iDrive 8 system.
Another cool new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that lets you start your car and operate certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control the climate control of your car as well as check the battery level and more! You can even check how much gas is left in your tank, if the car is equipped with that feature.
The process for replacing the BMW Digital Key is the same regardless of whether you're using the traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. You'll need to bring your working key and 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 cost of replacement when keys are lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first step is to reset the key, which erases any programming on it and render it inoperable. This is accomplished five times, by changing the key from one position to zero and back. Then, turn the key to zero and take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a easy method to start your vehicle. The fob is compatible with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle, 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. It is therefore difficult for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even if the device is in motion. The system uses an alarm to block unauthorised starting and disables ignition switch.
BMW also provides a variety of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob isn't within close proximity to the car. This feature is available on many of the brand's models and gives you peace of mind.
A number of the more advanced BMW models have keyless access, which allows drivers to get in and start the vehicle without having to manually push any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob in just one second. In certain situations it may be necessary to press the lock button on the fob three times, and then activate a separate remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW key fob in a pouch that blocks signals that reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting the signal that identifies the fob and allowing access to the car. Others prefer to use an ordinary key case which doesn't have this feature but will still protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners reported that their cars were stolen by criminals using signal amplifiers to boost the identifying signals. This type of attack is known as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping your key fob in a signal blocking pocket or by using an app that blocks signals on your smartphone.
Replacement
Everybody has experienced this: the battery in your BMW key fob goes out or you need to buy an extra one for your family. It's simple and inexpensive to purchase a replacement BMW fob and then program it into your vehicle. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths can sell you an alternative key fob. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650, depending on the type BMW you drive.
Check to see if there is other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming a new keyfob. Close all the doors of your vehicle. Next you'll need to insert your new key fob into the ignition, and move it to position 1 and back to position 0 five times quickly. Then, hold down the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you have finished this, take off your key and turn the vehicle on. The doors should lock and unlock, indicating that your new key fob is 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 without one. Each fob has a different method of synchronizing with your car, however the steps for each are almost identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob has to be put in the ignition to begin your car.
If you have a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is even easier. Once you have programmed your new key fob in your BMW and inserted it into the ignition and press start.
While your BMW is a great way to get around Decatur however, it is vital website to keep your key fob in a good condition. If you are looking for an entirely new BMW key fob, or a replacement one, you can reach the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you find the right key fob for your car and can upgrade your BMW by introducing the Comfort Access upgrade to allow keyless entry and engine starting.