What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have a BMW it is likely that your key fob has a lot of functions. You can use it for many things, including unlocking your doors, controlling your windows as well as starting the engine.
There are a few tricks you might not know about. Here are a few of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a tiny, rectangular piece of plastic, with a number of buttons integrated into its side. Most of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, and certain buttons have additional functions. For example, BMW owners can activate an invisible function on their key fob to lower all their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button twice. This is ideal for those who wish to cool down their car in the heat of summer.
Another significant function of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the vehicle. This is a wonderful safety precaution and prevents unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the car, the driver has to first push the lock on the fob of the key and then press the circular arrow. For newer BMW models the feature can be used to remotely start the car. This is particularly helpful in situations where the driver is running late for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car to get the door.
The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the interior climate system. This is particularly convenient for those who travel with multiple people since each key fob can be used to determine the preferred temperature of each person. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to check the battery's charge status.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. It's a good idea to keep the key fob in a secure case when not in use. If you happen to lose the key fob, a replacement can be provided that will disable it, rendering it useless for thieves. This can be accomplished 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 large, clunky rectangles of 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 look more attractive and less like the key opener. The new design also trimmed rough edges on the keys that could poke into bags or pockets, and made the keys easier 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, operate your air conditioning, and display vehicle information on a small touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models have remote parking!
If you're in need of a replacement, you can get the same functionality and features with the BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your car by using your smartphone, when you own an appropriate model. This feature is only available to BMW vehicles built after 2021 using the iDrive 8 system.
The Connected Remote key is another cool new key from BMW that lets you start your vehicle and operate certain features using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely control your car’s climate control and check battery levels. You can see how much fuel is left in your car, if it's 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 assist you with everything. You can also purchase the click here BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the cost of a replacement in the event that your keys are lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing you need to do is reset the key. This erases all programming and render it inoperable. This is done five times by rapidly changing the key from position one to zero and back. Then, turn it back to position zero and then pull it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. The fob is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and is compatible with BMW Connected Drive. It allows you to unlock your vehicle and also start the engine. You can also share the key with five other people.
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 relay attacks even if it is moving. The system also uses a built-in alarm to prevent unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch, which is a common target for thieves.
BMW also offers a variety of optional security features, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob isn't 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 come with keyless access that allows drivers to enter and start the car without having to manually press any buttons or insert the physical key. This feature can be activated by pressing three times on the lock button of the fob in just one second. In certain situations, you might 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 carry their BMW key fob in a case that blocks signals. This reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting unique code that is on the fob in order to gain access to the car. Some prefer using a standard case that does not have the feature, but it does protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals using a signal amplifier to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This kind of attack is known as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping your key fob in a signal blocking pocket or by using a signal-blocking app on your smartphone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you need an extra battery for a family member. Luckily, purchasing the replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and inexpensive. You can purchase an alternative from any dealer or locksmith who is authorized by BMW. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650, depending on the model of BMW you drive.
To program the new key fob into your BMW, first make sure that there isn't another key in the ignition. Also, close all doors in your vehicle. Then put your new key fob in the ignition and switch it to position 1, then back to position 0 five times quickly. Next, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. Once you have completed this, remove the key and switch on the vehicle. You should hear your car's doors lock and unlock. This means that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Depending on your car model, you may have keys that have an actual key blade in it, or a fob without one. The process for syncing new fobs to your car is different for each, but the steps are similar. The only difference is that the metal key fob has to be placed into the ignition to start your car.
If you own a BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even easier. Once you have programmed your new key fob to your BMW, insert it in the ignition and press start.
While your BMW is a great way to travel around Decatur It is crucial that you keep your key fob in a good condition. If you are looking for a new BMW key fob or replacement one, you can reach the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you find the perfect key fob for your vehicle and can upgrade your BMW with a Comfort Access upgrade to allow keyless entry and engine starting.