What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own an BMW you are likely to find that your key fob has numerous functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, manage your windows, and even start the engine.
But there are some hidden tricks that you might not have heard of. Let's take a look at some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic with several buttons incorporated into its side. Most of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, however certain buttons have additional functions. BMW owners, for example can activate a hidden function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is perfect for those who wish to cool their vehicle 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 engine, the driver has to press the lock button on the key fob, then press 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 late 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 internal climate system. This is especially useful for people who travel with several people as each key fob is able to set the preferred temperature for each person. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to check the battery's charge status.
While the standard BMW key fobs can handle normal levels of moisture, dropping them in water can cause severe damage. It's best to keep the key fob in a protective case when not in use. If you do lose the key fob, a solution can be offered to deactivate it, making it useless for thieves. This can be accomplished by contact with the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob can then be purchased to restore full functionality to your vehicle.
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. Then BMW started to make them a little smaller and also added an aluminum case around the base of the key, which made it appear more elegant and less like the bottle opener. This new design also minimized the rough edges of keys that could poke through bags or pockets, and made keys more comfortable to hold.
BMW then introduced the Display Key which puts all the functions of your car in your hands. It allows you to lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and see the vehicle's information on a small touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. It even lets you park remotely on hybrid models!
If you're in need of an alternative key fob, you can have the same great function by using the BMW Digital Key. You can use any smartphone compatible to replace the BMW key fob and then unlock your car! This feature is only available for BMW vehicles manufactured after 2021 that use the iDrive 8 system.
Another cool new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that lets you start your car and use some of its features with your smartphone. The app lets you remotely manage your car's climate control as well as check the battery level and much more! You can see how much fuel remains in your car if it is equipped with this feature.
The process for replacing check here a BMW Digital Key is the same regardless of whether you're using an old-fashioned key or a BMW Digital Key. Our experts will assist you with the process when you bring the old and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection Plan, which covers the cost of replacement if 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 that was stored on it and render it useless. This is done five times by quickly turning the key from position one to position zero and back. Then you can turn the key to position zero and remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. It is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the vehicle and also start the engine. It also allows you to share the key with up to five others.
The key fob communicates with the vehicle using encrypted signals. It is therefore extremely difficult for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. In addition to this, the UWB technology in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even when the fob is in motion when it is being transported. The system also has an inbuilt alarm system to block unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.
BMW offers a range of security options that can be added. Passive Start is one such feature that disables the starter motor if the key fob does not remain close to your vehicle. This feature is available in several models from the brand and offers peace of mind.
BMW's more advanced models feature keyless entry that allows users to start their vehicle without having to manually insert a key or press any buttons. This feature can be activated by pressing three times on the lock button of the fob in a single second. In some cases you may need to press the lock on the fob 3 times in order to activate a remote start feature on the dashboard or steering wheel.
Some people keep their BMW keyfob in a pouch that blocks signals. This minimizes the risk of a third-party broadcasting identification code from the fob to gain access to the vehicle. Some prefer the standard key case that does not come with this feature, but it will protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their cars were snatched by criminals who used signal amplifiers to boost the identification signals. This kind of attack is referred to 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 phone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery fails or you need an extra battery for your family member. It's simple and inexpensive to purchase a replacement BMW fob, and program it into your vehicle. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can sell you an alternative key fob. A new key fob will typically cost between $400 and $650, depending on the kind of BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob to your BMW first, ensure that there isn't another key in the ignition. Close all doors of your vehicle. After that, insert the new key fob into the ignition, and move it to position 1 and return to position 0 five times rapidly. Next, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you've completed this, take off the key and turn on the car. The doors will lock and unlock, indicating that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you may either have a key blade on your key fob, or that isn't. Each fob has a different method of synchronizing with your car, but the steps for each are identical. The only difference is the metal key fob will need to be put into the ignition to start your car.
If you have an BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even easier. After you have programmed the new key fob, simply connect it to your BMW's ignition and press the start button.
It is essential to keep your BMW key fob in good in good working order. Patrick BMW's parts department can help you locate a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can assist you in selecting the right key fob and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.