What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have a BMW, chances are 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 tricks you may not be aware of. Let's take a look at some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic that has many buttons incorporated into its sides. Most of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, and certain buttons have additional functions. For instance, BMW owners can activate an in-built function on the key fob to lower all their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button twice. This is a great option for those looking to cool their vehicle on a hot summer day.
The BMW key fob can be used to start your vehicle. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver has to first turn off the lock on the key fob, and then press 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 does not have time to turn the door.
The BMW key fob can also be used for controlling the interior climate system. This is especially helpful for people who travel with several people as each key fob can be used to determine the preferred temperature for each individual. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to check the battery's charge status.
While standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of humidity, dropping them into water can cause serious damage. For this reason, it's best to keep the key fob in a safe case when not in use. If you have lost your key fob, we can offer a solution which will deactivate the device, rendering it inaccessible to thieves. Contacting our dealer or technicians will be able to do this. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob could be purchased to restore full functionality to your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were big, clunky black rectangles that looked kind of like an opener for bottles from a distance. They were simple, but useful. Then BMW began to make them smaller and put a plastic case around the base of the key, which made it appear more elegant and less resemble a bottle opener. The new design also reduced rough edges on the keys which could pierce bags or pockets and made keys easier for you to hold.
BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the features of your vehicle in your hand. It allows you to 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, you can get the same functionality and features with a BMW Digital Key. Simply use your smartphone to replace the BMW key fob and unlock your car! This feature is available for 2021 or newer BMW cars that use the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is another innovative key from BMW that lets you start your vehicle and operate certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to manage your car's climate control and check battery levels. You can check 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 getting the replacement is the same. Our experts will assist you with the process if you bring the old and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection Plan, which covers the cost of replacement when keys are lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing you need to do is reset the key. This will erase all programming and render it unusable. This is accomplished by turning the key from position one, then back in rapid succession five times in one row. Then, turn the key until it is at zero and remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. The fob works with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle and start the engine and more. It also lets you share the key with up to five others.
The key fob communicates with vehicle using encrypted signals. It is therefore difficult for hackers and cloners to intercept 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 has an inbuilt alarm system to block unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch, which is a common target for thieves.
BMW offers a variety of security options that can be added. Passive Start is one such feature that disables the starter motor if the key fob doesn't remain close to your car. This feature is available on many BMW models and can provide additional security.
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 can be activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob in a single 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 steering wheel or dashboard.
Some people keep their BMW key fob in a case that blocks signals. This reduces the chance that a third party broadcasts the unique code that is on the fob to gain access to the vehicle. Others prefer to use a standard key case, which does not have this feature, but can 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 increase the signal that identifies. This type of attack is referred to as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping your key fob in a signal blocking pocket or by using a signal-blocking app on your smartphone.
Replacement
Everybody has experienced this: the battery in your BMW key fob goes out or you have to purchase an extra one for your family. It's easy and affordable to purchase a new BMW fob and then program it into your car. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can offer you the replacement key fob. A new key fob costs between $400 and $650, depending on the type 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 all doors inside your vehicle. Then, insert your new key fob in the ignition and move it to position 1 and return to position 0 five times quickly. Hold 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. The vehicle's doors lock and unlock. website This indicates that the new key fob was successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you may have a key blade inside your key fob or without. Each one has a distinct process for synchronizing with your car, however the steps for each are almost identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob needs to be placed in the ignition to begin your car.
If you own a BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even easier. Once you have programmed a new key fob, simply connect it to your BMW's ignition and press the start button.
While your BMW is a fantastic way to get around Decatur however, it is vital that you keep your key fob in a good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you find a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you choose the right key fob and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.