What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob could have numerous functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, control your windows, and even start your engine.
However, there are some secrets you might not know about. Let's take a look some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob consists of a small rectangle of plastic that has several buttons incorporated in its side. Most of the buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, however some have additional functions. For example, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on their key fob to lower all of their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button two times. This is perfect for those who wish to cool off their car in the heat of summer.
Another important purpose of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the vehicle. This feature is a great security precaution that prevents unauthorised 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 especially useful in a situation where the driver is running late for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car to get the door.
Finally lastly, the BMW key fob can also be utilized to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is especially useful for people who travel with several people since each key fob is able to set the temperature for each individual. If you have hybrid BMW key fob can be used to monitor the status of charging the vehicle's battery.
While the standard BMW key fobs can handle normal levels of moisture, dropping them in water can cause significant damage. It's best to store the key fob inside its case that is protected when it is not in use. If you happen to lose the key fob, a solution can be provided that will disable it, making it unusable for thieves. This can be accomplished by contact with the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob could be purchased to restore functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were once big, clunky rectangles in black that, from a distance, appeared like a bottle opener. They were simple, but functional. Then BMW started to make them smaller and also added a plastic case around the key's base that made it look nicer and a little less like the bottle opener. This new design also reduced rough edges on the key which could pierce pockets or bags and made keys more comfortable to hold.
BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your hand. The BMW key fob has small LCD screens that lets you lock and unlock your car, control the air conditioning and view vehicle information. Even hybrid models come with remote parking!
If you're in need of an upgrade for your BMW Digital Key, you can enjoy the same great functionality with a BMW Digital Key. You can use any smartphone compatible to replace the BMW key fob and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is only available to BMW vehicles made after 2021 using the iDrive 8 system.
Another new and exciting key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that lets you start your car and operate some of its features with your smartphone. The app lets you remotely manage your car's climate control and check battery levels and more! You can also see the amount of fuel left in your car, if it's equipped with this feature.
Whether you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process for getting a replacement is similar. Our technicians will assist you with the process if you bring your old key and the new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover the cost of replacement if your 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 erases all programming and render it unusable. This is accomplished five times by quickly shifting the key from position one to zero and back. Then, turn it to position zero and then pull it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a efficient way to start your car. The fob works with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle or start the engine and more. It also allows you to share the key with up to five others.
The key fob connects to the vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it difficult for hackers to intercept and clone the signal. Additionally to this, 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 uses an inbuilt alarm system to block unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch, which is a common target for thieves.
BMW also offers a variety of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob isn't near to the vehicle. This feature is offered in all models of the brand and offers peace of mind.
BMW's most advanced models come with keyless entry, which lets users to start their car without having to manually inserting a key or pressing any buttons. This feature is typically activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times within one second. In certain situations it is possible to press the lock button on the fob three times to then turn on the remote start feature on the dashboard or on the 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 signal that identifies the fob and using it to gain access to the car. Others prefer to use an ordinary key case which doesn't have this feature, but it will protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals using an amplifier for signal strength to boost the identifying signals. This kind of attack, referred to as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob into 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 fails or you have to purchase a spare one for a family. Fortunately, finding a replacement BMW key fob and programming it to your car is easy and affordable. You can purchase an alternative from any dealer or locksmith that is authorized by BMW. A new key fob will typically cost between $400 and $650, depending on the type of BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob for your BMW first, make sure that there is no other key in the ignition. Also, close the doors of your vehicle. Insert your new key fob in the ignition and swiftly turn it from position 1 to position 0, and back to position 1. Next, more info press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you've completed this, remove the key and turn on the car. 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 does not have one. Each key fob has its own method of synchronizing with your car, however the steps for each are identical. The only difference is the metal key fob will need to be placed in the ignition to begin your vehicle.
If you own a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is even simpler. Once you have programmed an entirely 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 get around Decatur however, it is vital that you keep your key fob in a good condition. If you're looking for a new BMW key fob, or a replacement one, you can reach the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you locate the perfect key fob for your car and can upgrade your BMW by introducing a Comfort Access upgrade to enable keyless entry as well as engine starting.