What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob could have many functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, manage your windows, and even start your engine.
There are some tricks that you might not be aware of. Here are a few of the most effective.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic with many buttons built into its side. Most of these buttons unlock and lock the 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 people who wish to cool down their vehicle on the summer heat.
The BMW key fob can be used to start your vehicle. This is a wonderful security precaution that prevents unauthorised entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, drivers must first press the lock button on the key fob and then the circular arrow. For the latest BMW models the feature can be used to remotely start the vehicle. This is particularly useful in situations where the driver is running late for work and doesn't have time to get out of the car to get the door.
Additionally it is worth noting that the BMW key fob can also be used to control the car's interior climate system. This is especially helpful for those who travel with multiple individuals as each key fob can be used to set the temperature for each individual. If you have a hybrid BMW, the key fob can be used to monitor the state of charge of the battery of the vehicle.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. It is best to store the key fob in its protective case when it is not in use. If you lose your key fob, we can provide a service that will deactivate the device, rendering it useless to thieves. This can be done by contacting the dealer or one of our technicians. You can buy a replacement BMW key fob to re-establish your car's functionality.
Design
BMW key fobs were large black, clunky rectangles that looked like an open bottle from a distance. They were basic, but they served a purpose. BMW then made them smaller and also added a plastic casing around the base to make it look better and less like an opener for keys. This new design also minimized the rough edges of the keys that could pierce pockets or bags and made keys easier to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all of your vehicle's functionality in your hand. It lets you lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and display the information about your vehicle on a tiny LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models come with remote parking!
If you're in need of an upgrade key fob, you can have the same great function by using a BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your vehicle using your smartphone if you have an appropriate model. This feature is available for 2021 or more recent BMW cars that use the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another cool new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which allows you to start your vehicle and operate certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to control your car’s climate control and monitor battery levels. You can also see the amount of fuel left in your car if it has this feature.
No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process of obtaining an replacement is the same. You'll have to bring the original key and the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will assist you with everything. You can also purchase an BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the costs 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 step is to reset the key, which will erase any programming on it and make it unusable. This is done five times by rapidly shifting the key from position one to zero and back. Then, turn it back to position zero and take off the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a convenient way to start your car. It 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 using encrypted signals. It is therefore extremely difficult for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. Additionally 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 incorporates a built-in alarm to prevent unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch which is a frequent target for thieves.
BMW offers a range of security features that are available as an option. Passive Start is one such feature that disables the starter motor when the key fob doesn't remain close to your car. This feature is available on many BMW models and provides additional peace of mind.
BMW's more sophisticated models include keyless entry, which allows users to start their car without having to manually inserting a key or pressing any buttons. This feature is typically activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times in the span of a second. In certain situations, you might have to press the fob's lock 3 times in order to activate a remote start feature on the dashboard or steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW keyfob in a pouch that blocks signals. This decreases the possibility that a third party broadcasts the unique code that is on the fob to gain access to the vehicle. Some prefer using an ordinary case that does not have the feature, but it still protects the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their vehicles were stolen by criminals who simply employed a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signal. This bmw key replacement cost kind of attack, also known as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob in an area that blocks signals, or by installing an application on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
Everyone has experienced this - the battery in your BMW key fob goes out or you need to buy an extra one for your family. It's simple and inexpensive to purchase a new BMW fob, and program it into your vehicle. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths can sell you the replacement key fob. A new key fob is likely to cost between $400 and $650, based on the kind 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. Close all doors of your vehicle. After that put your new key fob in the ignition and turn it to position 1 before turning return to position 0 five times quickly. Hold down the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, remove your key and turn your car on. The vehicle's doors unlock and lock. This means that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you might have a key blade on your key fob, or that isn't. Each one has a distinct process to sync with your car, but the steps for each are identical. The only difference is that the fob that has a metal key in it needs to be inserted into the ignition when you want to start the car.
If you have a BMW with Comfort Access the process is much simpler. After you've programmed the new key fob, simply connect it to the ignition of your car and press the start button.
While your BMW is a great way to travel around Decatur, it is important to keep your key fob in good working condition. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you find a replacement BMW fob or replacement. We can assist you in selecting the correct key fob and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.