What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob is likely to have numerous functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, manage your windows and even start your engine.
There are some tricks that you might not be aware of. Let's take a look some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic with a number buttons embedded in its side. Most of the buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, and certain buttons have additional functions. BMW owners, for instance can activate a hidden function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is ideal for people who wish to cool down their vehicle on the scorching summer days.
The BMW key fob can be used to start your car. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver must first turn off the lock on the key fob and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to remotely start the vehicle. This is particularly useful in a situation where the driver is in a hurry for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car to open the door handle.
The BMW key fob can also be used for controlling the interior climate system. This is especially useful for those traveling with multiple individuals as each key fob is able to set the temperature for each individual. For those who have a hybrid BMW key fob, it can be used to determine the status of charging the battery of the vehicle.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. This is why it's a good idea to keep the key fob in a secure case when not in use. If you do lose the key fob, a replacement can be provided that will disable it, rendering it inaccessible to thieves. This can be done by contacting the dealer or one of our technicians. You can purchase a new BMW key fob to restore your car's functionality.
Design
BMW key fobs were huge, clunky rectangular shapes in black that, from a distance, looked like a bottle opener. They were simple, but functional. BMW then made them smaller and also added a plastic casing around the base to make it appear better and less like a key opener. This new design also reduced rough edges on the keys which could pierce bags or pockets, and made the keys easier for you to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all of your vehicle's functionality in your hand. It lets you lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and display the information about your vehicle on a tiny touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models have remote parking!
If you're in need of an alternative key fob, you can have the same functionality and features with the BMW Digital Key. Simply use your smartphone to replace the BMW key fob and then unlock your car! This feature is available for 2021 or later BMW cars that use the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another exciting new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which allows you to start your vehicle and operate some of its features with your smartphone. The app allows you to control your car’s climate control and check the battery level. You can also see how much fuel remains in your car if it is equipped with this feature.
If you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process for getting a replacement is similar. 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 an BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the cost of a replacement if your keys are stolen or lost.
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 and back quickly five times in one row. Then, turn the key to position zero and remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. 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. You can also share the key with five others.
The key fob communicates encrypted signals to the vehicle. This makes it difficult for hackers to steal and replicate the signal. Additionally the UWB technology in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is in motion while it's being transported. The system employs an alarm to prevent unauthorized starting and disables the ignition switch.
BMW also provides a variety of optional security features, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob is not near to the vehicle. This feature is available on many BMW models and can provide an additional level of security.
A lot of the more sophisticated BMW models have keyless access, which lets drivers enter and start the vehicle without having to manually press any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature is typically activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times within one second. In certain situations it may be necessary to press the lock button on the fob three times to then turn on the remote start feature within the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people keep their BMW key fob in a case that blocks signals. This reduces the chance that a third party broadcasts the unique code that is on the fob to gain access to the car. Some prefer using a standard case, which does not have the feature, but it still protects the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals who used signal amplifiers to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This kind of attack, referred to as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob in a pocket that blocks signals, or by installing an application on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you require an extra battery for someone in your family. It's affordable and easy to purchase a replacement BMW fob, and then program it into your vehicle. You can purchase a replacement from any dealership or locksmith who is authorized by BMW. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650 depending on the kind of BMW you drive.
Check to see if there is other ignition key in your BMW before you begin programming the new keyfob. Also, close the doors of your vehicle. After that, insert the new key fob into the ignition, and move it to position 1 and back to position 0 five times quickly. Hold more info the unlock button, 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 your vehicle's doors lock and unlock. This indicates that the new key fob was successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you could either have a key blade inside your key fob or that isn't. Each fob has a different process for synchronizing with your car, however the steps for each are identical. The only difference is the metal key fob will need to be put in the ignition to start your vehicle.
If you have a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is much 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 keep your BMW key fob in working order. 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 choose the correct key fob and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.