What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own a BMW you are likely to find that your key fob has many functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, operate your windows and even start the engine.
There are a few secrets you might not be aware of. Let's take a look at some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a tiny, rectangular piece of plastic, with several buttons incorporated into its side. Most of the buttons are used to unlock and lock 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 during the scorching summer days.
The BMW key fob can be used to start your car. This is a wonderful safety precaution and prevents unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, drivers must first press the lock button on the key fob, then the circular arrow. For newer BMW models it can be used to remotely start the vehicle. This feature is particularly useful when a driver is late for work and does not have time to turn the door.
Additionally, the BMW key fob may also be utilized to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is particularly useful for those who travel with multiple individuals, as it's possible to set each person's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to monitor the battery's charging status.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. For this reason, it's best to keep the key fob in a protective case when 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 contact with the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob can then be purchased to restore full functionality to your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were big rectangular black pieces that looked a bit like an opener for bottles from a distance. They were simple, but functional. Then BMW began to make them smaller and also added a case made of plastic around the base of the key, which made it look nicer and less resemble the bottle opener. The new design also reduced rough edges on the keys that could poke into bags or pockets and made keys more comfortable to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all of your vehicle's functionality in your hand. The BMW key fob features small LCD screens that lets you lock and unlock your car, control the air conditioning, and access vehicle information. Even hybrid models have remote parking!
BMW Digital Keys are a great alternative if you want to replace your BMW key fob. You can use any smartphone compatible to replace the BMW key fob and unlock your vehicle! This feature is available on 2021 and later BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is another innovative key from BMW that allows you to start your car and control some features with your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely manage your car's climate control and check battery levels and more! You can check how much fuel remains in your car, if it's equipped with this feature.
The process of replacing a BMW Digital Key is the same whether you're using the traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. You'll have to bring the original key along with the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will assist you with everything. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the costs of a 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 will erase all programming and render it inoperable. This is accomplished five times, by shifting the key from one position to zero and back. Then, turn it to position zero and take off 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 more. You can also share the key with five others.
The key fob communicates with the vehicle via encrypted signals. This makes it difficult for hackers to intercept and replicate the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents relay attacks even if it is moving. The system also incorporates an inbuilt alarm system to block unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch, which is a common target for thieves.
BMW also provides a variety of security options that are available, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob is not within close proximity to the vehicle. This feature is offered in several models from the brand and provides additional peace of mind.
Many of the more advanced BMW models come with keyless access that allows drivers to get in and start the vehicle without having manually push any buttons or insert the physical key. This feature is usually activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times within one second. In some instances, you may need to press the lock button on the fob three times to then turn on the remote start feature within the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW key fob in a pouch that blocks signals which minimizes the possibility of a third-party broadcasting the signal that identifies the fob and using it to bmw car keys replacement access the car. Some people prefer to use a standard case, which does not have the feature, but it does protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their vehicles have been taken by thieves who utilized a signal amplifier in order to boost the identifying signal. This type of attack, known as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob into an area that blocks signals, or by installing an app on your phone to block signals.
Replacement
It happens to everyone It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you require an extra battery for someone in your family. It's easy and affordable to purchase a replacement BMW fob, and then program it into your car. You can buy a replacement from any dealership or locksmith authorized by BMW. A new key fob costs between $400 and $650 depending on the kind of BMW you drive.
Check to see if there is other ignition key in your BMW before you begin programming the new keyfob. You should also close all doors inside your vehicle. Next put the new key fob into the ignition, and move it to position 1 and return to position 0 five times rapidly. Hold down the unlock button and quickly press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, remove the key and then turn on the car. The doors should lock and unlock, indicating that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car You may have an ignition key fob with a physical key blade inside it, or a key fob that doesn't have one. The process for syncing new fobs to your vehicle differs for each, but the steps are similar. The only difference is that a key fob that has a metallic key in it will need to be put into the ignition when you wish to start the car.
If you have a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is even simpler. After you've 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 fantastic vehicle to get around Decatur however, it is vital that you keep your key fob in good condition. If you're in search of an updated BMW key fob or replacement one, you can reach the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you choose the right key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.