What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob probably has numerous functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, manage your windows and even start your engine.
There are some tricks you may not know about. Let's take a look some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangle of plastic that has several buttons incorporated into its side. Most of the buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, but some have additional functions. BMW owners, for instance can activate a hidden function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is a great option for those who want to cool off their car on a hot summer day.
Another important benefit of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This is a fantastic 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. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to remotely start the car. This feature is especially useful when a driver is late for work and doesn't have the time to pull the door.
Additionally it is worth noting that the BMW key fob can be used to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is particularly helpful for those who travel with multiple people, as it is possible to set each person's preferred temperature with their own key fob. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to check the battery's charging status.
While the standard BMW key fobs can withstand normal levels of humidity, dropping them into water can cause serious damage. It is recommended to keep the key fob in its protective case when not in use. If you lose your key fob we can provide a service that will deactivate the device, making it useless to thieves. Contacting our dealer or technicians will do this. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob can then be purchased to restore full functionality to your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs used to be big rectangular black pieces that looked a bit like an open bottle from a distance. They were basic, but they served a purpose. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it appear more appealing and less like an opener for keys. The new design also trimmed the rough edges of the key that could poke into pockets or bags, and made the keys more comfortable to hold.
BMW then introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your hand. It lets you lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and view 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 a replacement key fob, you can have the same great function by using the BMW Digital Key. Just use your compatible smartphone to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your car! This feature is available for 2021 or more recent BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is another amazing new key from BMW that lets you start your car and control certain functions using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely control the climate control of your car and monitor battery levels. You can also see how you've got gas left in your tank if the car is equipped with this feature.
No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting a replacement is similar. You'll have to bring your original key along with the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will assist you with everything. You can also purchase the BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the costs of a replacement in the event that your keys are stolen or lost.
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 by turning the key from position one, then back quickly, five times in the same row. Then, turn the key until it is at zero and then remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. The fob is compatible with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle, start the engine, and much more. It also lets you share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob is encrypted and transmits signals to the vehicle. This makes it impossible for hackers to steal and clone the signal. Additionally the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even if the fob is moving while it's being transported. The system also incorporates an inbuilt alarm system to block unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.
BMW offers a variety of optional security features. Passive Start is one such feature that disables the starter motor when the key fob doesn't remain within close proximity to your vehicle. This feature is available on many of the brand's models and offers security.
A lot of the more sophisticated BMW models come with keyless access click here that allows drivers to get in and start the vehicle without having to manually use any buttons or insert the physical key. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button of the fob in just one second. In certain situations, you may need to press the button to lock the fob three times to then switch on a separate remote start feature in the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people prefer to carry their BMW key fob in a pouch with a signal blocker which minimizes the possibility of a third party broadcasting the identification signal from the fob and using it to access the car. Others prefer to use a standard key case, which does not have this feature, but it will protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their vehicles have been taken by criminals who just utilized a signal amplifier in order to increase the signal that identifies. This type of attack is known as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping your key fob in a signal blocking pocket or by using an app that blocks signals on your smartphone.
Replacement
Everyone has had this experience - the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you have to purchase another one for your family. It's affordable and easy to get a replacement BMW fob and then program it into your vehicle. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can sell you a replacement key fob. A new key fob is likely to cost between $400 and $650, depending on the model of BMW you drive.
To program the new key fob into your BMW, first make sure that there is no other key in the ignition. Close all doors of your vehicle. Next put your new key fob in the ignition and turn 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 your key and turn your car on. You should hear the doors unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the car model, you may have a key fob that has a physical key blade inside it, or a fob without one. The process for syncing new fobs with your car is different for each one, but the steps are similar. The only difference is the metal key fob needs to be placed in the ignition to start your car.
If you have a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is even simpler. Once you have programmed the new key fob, simply insert it into the ignition of your BMW and press the start button.
While your BMW is a fantastic vehicle to travel around Decatur however, it is vital that you keep your key fob in good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you locate a new BMW fob or replacement. We can help you locate the right key fob to your car and even upgrade your BMW by introducing the Comfort Access upgrade to enable keyless entry and engine starting.