What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob probably has numerous functions. It can be used for a variety of purposes, including unlocking your doors, adjusting your windows and even starting your engine.
There are some tricks that you might not be aware of. Here are some of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic with a number of buttons integrated into its side. Most of them allow you to lock and unlock your car however, a few are distinctive. BMW owners, for example can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is ideal for those who want to cool down their car in the heat of summer.
The BMW key fob can also be used to begin your car. This is a fantastic safety precaution and prevents unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, drivers must first press the lock button on the key fob and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to start the vehicle remotely. This is particularly useful when the driver is running late for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car and open the door handle.
Lastly lastly, the BMW key fob may also be used to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is especially convenient for those who travel with several individuals, as it's possible to set each individual's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to check the battery's charging status.
Dropping them into water is not recommended. For this reason, it's best to keep the key fob in a secure case when not in use. If you have lost your key fob, we can offer a solution which will deactivate the device, making it useless to thieves. Contacting the dealer or one of our technicians will be able to do this. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob can then be purchased to restore full functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were big, clunky rectangles in black that from a distance looked like a bottle opener. They were basic, but useful. BMW then made them smaller and also added a plastic casing around the base to make it appear better and less like the key opener. The new design also trimmed rough edges on the keys which could pierce pockets or bags, and made the keys easier to hold.
BMW introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your palm. The BMW key fob has small LCD screens that lets you lock and unlock your car, control the air conditioning, and access vehicle information. It even lets you park remotely on hybrid models!
If you're in need of an upgrade, you can get the same functionality and features by using a BMW Digital Key. Simply use your smartphone to replace the BMW key fob and unlock your car! This feature is available on 2021 or newer BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is a amazing new 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 battery levels and more! You can also see how you've got gas left in your tank, in the event that your car is equipped with that feature.
Whether you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process for getting an 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 choose to purchase the BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the cost 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 step is to reset the key, which will erase any programming it has and render it inoperable. This is accomplished by turning the key from position one and back quickly, five times in the same row. Then, you turn it back to zero and then take off 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, start the engine, and much more. You can also share the key with five people.
The key fob communicates with the vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it impossible for hackers to intercept and clone the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even when it is moving. The system also incorporates an inbuilt alarm system to block unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.
BMW also offers a range of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob isn't in close proximity to the vehicle. This feature is available on many BMW models and provides an additional level of security.
A lot of the more sophisticated BMW models offer keyless access that lets drivers enter and start the vehicle without having manually press any buttons or insert an actual key. This feature is typically activated by pressing the lock button get more info on the fob three times in the span of a second. In some cases it is possible to press the lock button on the fob three times to then turn on a separate remote start feature within the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW key fob in a case that blocks signals. This reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting identification code from the fob to gain access to the car. Some people prefer to use an ordinary case that does not have the feature, but it does protect the fob against scratches.
Some BMW owners reported that their cars were stolen by criminals who used signal amplifiers to boost 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 using an application on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you need an extra battery for a family member. Thankfully, getting a replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your car is easy and affordable. You can purchase the replacement from any dealership or locksmith authorized by BMW. A new key fob costs between $400 and $650, depending on the model of 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 in your vehicle. After that put the new key fob into the ignition, and turn it to position 1 before turning return to position 0 five times in rapid succession. Press the unlock button, then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. Once you've completed this, take off your key and turn your car on. The vehicle's doors unlock and lock. This indicates that the new key fob has been 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 that doesn't have one. The process for syncing new fobs with your car differs for each however, the steps are similar. The only difference is that the metal key fob needs to be put in the ignition to begin your car.
If you have a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is even simpler. After you have programmed a new key fob, simply connect it to the ignition of your BMW and press the start button.
It is crucial to ensure that your BMW key fob in working order. If you're looking for a new BMW key fob or replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you select the right key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.