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, control your windows, and even start your engine.
There are a few secret techniques that you may not have heard of. Here are a few of the most effective.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic with several buttons incorporated into its sides. The majority of these buttons unlock and lock the car however, a few are distinctive. For example, BMW owners can activate an in-built function on the key fob to lower all of their windows at once by pressing the unlock button two times. This is ideal for those who wish to cool off their car in the heat of summer.
The BMW key fob can be used to start your vehicle. This is a fantastic security measure and blocks unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the car, the driver must first push the lock on the key fob and then the circular arrow. For the latest BMW models the feature can be used to remotely start the car. This is particularly useful in situations where the driver is in a hurry for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car and open the door handle.
The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the interior climate system. This is particularly helpful for those who travel with several individuals, as it's possible to set each individual's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. If you have hybrid BMW, the key fob can be used to check the status of charging the battery of the vehicle.
While standard BMW key fobs can withstand normal levels of moisture, dropping them in water can cause serious damage. It is best to store the key fob inside its protective case when it is not in use. If you lose your key fob we can offer a solution that will deactivate the device, rendering it useless to thieves. Contacting the dealer or one of our technicians can do this. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob can then be purchased to restore functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were once huge rectangular black pieces that looked kind of like a bottle opener from the distance. They were simple, but functional. Then BMW began to make them more compact and added a plastic case around the key's base that made it appear more elegant and less like an opener for bottles. This new design also reduced the rough edges of the keys which could puncture bags or pockets, and made the keys easier to hold.
BMW then introduced the Display Key which puts all the functions of your car in your hands. The BMW key fob features a small LCD screen which allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, operate the air conditioning and display vehicle information. Even hybrid models can have remote parking!
If you're in need of an upgrade for your BMW Digital Key, you can enjoy the same great function with the BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your car with your smartphone when you own an appropriate model. 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 a innovative key from BMW that allows you to start your car and use certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control your car’s climate control and check the battery level. You can even see how you've got gas 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 an replacement is the same. Our experts will assist you with the process when you bring your old key and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also choose to purchase an BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the cost of a replacement if 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 inoperable. This is done five times by rapidly turning the key from position one to position zero and back. Then you can turn the key until it is at zero and remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. The fob pairs with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle and start the engine and much more. It also allows you to share the key with up to five others.
The key fob communicates with vehicle via encrypted signals. This makes it difficult for hackers to intercept and clone the signal. Additionally, the UWB technology in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is in motion when it is being carried. The system employs an alarm to stop unauthorised starting and disables the ignition switch.
BMW offers a variety of optional security features. Passive Start is one feature that disables the starter motor if the key fob doesn't remain in close proximity to your vehicle. This feature is offered on a number of BMW models and provides an additional level of security.
BMW's more sophisticated models include keyless entry, which lets users to start their vehicle without having to manually insert a key or push any buttons. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob within one second. In certain situations, you might have to press the fob's lock 3 times in order to activate the remote start feature on the dashboard or steering wheel.
Some people choose to carry their BMW key fob in a signal-blocking pouch which minimizes the possibility of a third party broadcasting the identifying signal from the fob and allowing access to the car. Some prefer using a standard case that does not come with the feature, but it still protects the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals using an amplifier for signal strength to boost the identification signals. This type of attack is known as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping the key fob in a signal blocking pocket or by using an app that blocks signals on your smartphone.
Replacement
Everyone has had this experience - the battery in your BMW key fob goes out or you need to buy another one for your family. It's simple and inexpensive to purchase a new BMW fob, and program it into your vehicle. You can purchase a replacement from any dealership or locksmith authorized by BMW. A new key fob costs between $400 and $650 depending on the type BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob for your BMW first, ensure that there is no other key in the ignition. Also, close all doors inside your vehicle. After that you'll need to insert your new key fob in the ignition and move it to position 1, then 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, remove your key and turn your car on. The vehicle's doors lock and unlock. This means that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you might have a key blade inside your key fob or one without. Each one has a distinct process to sync with your bmw replacement key fob car, however the steps for each are 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 want to start the car.
If you have a BMW with Comfort Access the process is even easier. Once you have programmed your new key fob into your BMW and inserted it into the ignition and press start.
It is crucial to maintain your BMW key fob in good in good working order. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you locate a new BMW fob or replacement. We can help you select the correct key fob and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.