What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have a BMW, chances are that your key fob comes with numerous functions. You can use it to do a variety of things, such as unlocking your doors, adjusting your windows, and even starting the engine.
But there are some secret techniques that you may not know about. Here are a few of the most effective.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangle of plastic that has several buttons incorporated in its side. Most of these buttons unlock and lock the car however, some are unique. BMW owners, for instance can activate a hidden function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is a great option for those who want to cool their car during a hot summer's day.
The BMW key fob can also be used to start your vehicle. This feature is a great safety precaution and prevents unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the car, the driver has to first press the lock on the fob of the key and then press the circular arrow. For the latest BMW models the feature can be used to remotely start the car. This is particularly useful when the driver is running late for work and doesn't have time to get out of the car to open the door.
The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the interior climate system. This is especially convenient for those who travel with several people, since it is possible to set each person's preferred temperature using their own key fob. If you own hybrid BMW, the key fob can be used to check the status of charging the vehicle's battery.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. It is best to store the key fob in its case of protection when it is not in use. If you lose your key fob, we can offer a service that will disable the device, rendering it inaccessible to thieves. This can be done by contacting the dealer or one of our technicians. You can purchase a new BMW key fob to restore your car's functionality.
Design
BMW key fobs were big, clunky rectangles in black that from a distance looked like a bottle-opener. They were simple, but useful. BMW then made them smaller and also added a plastic casing around the base to make it appear more attractive and less like a key opener. The new design also reduced rough edges on the keys that could poke into bags or pockets and made the keys easier to hold.
BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the functions of your car 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 touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!
BMW Digital Keys are a fantastic replacement if you need to replace the BMW key fob. You can unlock your car with your smartphone provided you have an appropriate model. This feature is only available on BMW vehicles manufactured after 2021 with the iDrive 8 system.
The Connected Remote key is another amazing new key from BMW that allows you to start your car and control certain features using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control your car's climate control as well as check the battery level and much more! You can also see how much gas you have left in your tank should your car be equipped with this feature.
No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process for getting a replacement is similar. Our experts will assist you in the process if you bring both the old and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also choose to purchase the BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the cost of a replacement if your keys are 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 unusable. This is accomplished five times by rapidly shifting the key from one position to zero and back. Then, you turn it back to position zero and then pull it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. The fob is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and is compatible with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the car and start the engine. You can also share the key with five others.
The key fob communicates encrypted signals to the vehicle. It is therefore difficult for hackers and cloners, to intercept the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents relay attacks even if it is moving. The system also uses an inbuilt alarm system to block unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.
BMW also offers a range of security options that are available, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob isn't near to the car. This feature is available on several models from the brand and offers security.
Many of the more advanced BMW models have keyless access that allows drivers to get in and start the vehicle without having manually use any buttons or insert the physical key. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob in just one second. In some instances, you may need to press the lock on the fob 3 times in order to activate a remote start feature on the steering wheel or dashboard.
Some people carry their BMW key fob in a case that blocks signals. This minimizes the risk of a third-party broadcasting the unique code that is on the fob in order to gain access to the car. Some people prefer to use a standard case, which does not come with the feature, but it does protect the fob against scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars have been taken by thieves who used a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signal. This type of attack, also known as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob in pockets that block signals, or by utilizing an bmw spare keys app on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
Everybody has experienced this: the battery in your BMW key fob goes out or you'll need to purchase another one for your family. It's simple and inexpensive to get a replacement BMW fob, and program it into your vehicle. You can purchase an alternative from any dealer or locksmith that is authorized by BMW. A new key fob costs between $400 and $650 based on the model of BMW you drive.
Make sure that there isn't other ignition key in your BMW before you begin programming the new keyfob. Close all doors in your vehicle. After that, insert your new key fob in the ignition, and move it to position 1 and return to position 0 five times in rapid succession. Hold the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, take off the key and then turn on the vehicle. You should hear the doors lock and unlock, indicating that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you may have a key blade on your key fob or that isn't. Each fob has a different process to sync with your car, however the steps for each are nearly identical. The only difference is that the key fob that has a metal key inside will need to be put into the ignition when you are ready to start your car.
If you own a BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process is even simpler. After you've programmed the new key fob, simply connect it to your BMW's ignition and press the start button.
It is crucial to maintain your BMW key fob in good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department can assist you locate a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you locate the right key fob for your vehicle and even upgrade your BMW with the Comfort Access upgrade to enable keyless entry as well as engine starting.