What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own an BMW, chances are that your key fob comes with many functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, control your windows, and even start your engine.
There are some tricks you might not be aware of. Here are a few of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic that has many buttons incorporated into its side. The majority of these buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, however some have additional functions. 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 their vehicle in the heat of summer.
The BMW key fob can also be used to start your car. This is a wonderful security precaution that prevents unauthorised entry into the vehicle. To start the vehicle, the driver needs to first push the lock on the key fob and then the circular arrow. For the latest BMW models, this feature can also be used to remotely start the vehicle. This is particularly helpful in a situation where the driver is running late for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car and open the door handle.
The BMW key fob can also be used for controlling the interior climate system. This is especially convenient for those who travel with several people, as it is 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 determine the state of charge of the battery in the vehicle.
Dropping them into water is not recommended. This is why it's best to keep the key fob in a secure case when not in use. If you lose your key fob, we can offer a solution which will deactivate the device, making it useless to thieves. This can be done by calling the dealer or one of our technicians. You can buy a replacement BMW key fob to repair the functionality of your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs used to be large rectangular black pieces that looked a bit like an opener for bottles from a distance. They were simple but functional. Then BMW started to make them a little more compact and added a plastic case around the key's base that made it appear more elegant and a little less like a bottle opener. The new design also trimmed rough edges on the key which could pierce pockets or bags and made the keys more comfortable to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all of your vehicle's functionality in the palm of your hand. It lets you lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and view the information about your vehicle on a tiny LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models have remote parking!
BMW Digital Keys are a fantastic replacement if you need to replace the BMW key fob. You can unlock your vehicle with your smartphone provided you have a compatible model. This feature is available on 2021 and 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 control certain functions using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely manage your car's climate control and monitor battery levels. You can check how much fuel is left in your car, if it's equipped with this feature.
The process for replacing the BMW Digital Key is the same, whether you use a traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. Our technicians will help you in the process if you bring both your old key and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection plan, which will pay for the cost of a replacement in the event that keys get lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing you need to do is get more info reset the key. This erases all programming and render it unusable. This is done five times, by changing the key from position one to zero and back. Then you can turn the key until it is at zero and take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. 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. It also allows you to share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob communicates with the vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it difficult for hackers to intercept and replicate 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 also incorporates an alarm built-in to stop unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch, which is a common target for thieves.
BMW also offers a range of security options that are available, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob isn't within close proximity to the car. This feature is available on many BMW models and provides additional peace of mind.
BMW's more advanced models feature keyless entry, which allows drivers to access their vehicle without having 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 some instances, you may need to press the lock button on the fob three times and then activate the remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people prefer to carry their BMW key fob in a signal-blocking pouch, which reduces the risk of a third party broadcasting the signal that identifies the fob and using it to access the car. Others prefer to use a standard key case, that does not come with this feature, but it will protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners reported that their cars were stolen by criminals using a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signals. This type of attack, known as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob into pockets that block signals, or by installing an application on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
Everyone has experienced this - the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you'll need to purchase another one for your family. Fortunately, finding a replacement BMW key fob and programming it to your car is easy and affordable. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths can sell you the replacement key fob. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650, depending on the kind of BMW you drive.
Make sure there is no other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming the new keyfob. Close all doors in your vehicle. Then you'll need to insert your new key fob in the ignition and switch it to position 1 before turning 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 the vehicle on. The vehicle's doors lock and unlock. This means that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car You may have an ignition key fob with an actual key blade in it, or a key fob that doesn't have one. The process of synchronizing new fobs with your car differs for each however the steps are similar. The only difference is that a key fob that has a metallic key in it will need to be inserted into the ignition when you wish to start the car.
If you own an BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process is even more straightforward. Once you have programmed the new key fob, simply insert it into the ignition of your BMW and press the start button.
It is essential to keep your BMW key fob in working order. Patrick BMW's parts department can assist you locate a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you locate the right key fob for your vehicle and even upgrade your BMW by introducing an upgrade to Comfort Access to allow keyless entry and engine starting.