What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have a BMW you are likely to find that your key fob comes with numerous functions. You can use it to do a variety of things, such as opening your doors, controlling your windows and even starting your engine.
There are some tricks you may not be aware of. Let's take a look at some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob consists of an incredibly small piece of plastic that has several buttons incorporated into its sides. Most of these buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, however a few have more unique functions. For example, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on their key fob to lower all their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for those looking to cool their vehicle on a hot summer day.
Another important purpose of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This feature is a great security precaution that prevents unauthorised entry into the vehicle. To start the vehicle, the driver needs to first turn off the lock on the key fob, and then press the circular arrow. For the latest BMW models the feature can be used to remotely start the vehicle. This feature is especially useful when a driver is late for work and does not have time to turn the door handle.
Finally lastly, the BMW key fob can be used to control the car's interior climate system. This is especially helpful for those traveling with multiple individuals as each key fob is able to set the preferred temperature for each person. If you own a hybrid BMW, the key fob can be used to determine the state of charge of the battery of the vehicle.
Dropping them into water is not recommended. This is why it's a good idea to keep the key fob in a secure case when not in use. If you have lost your key fob, we can provide a service that will disable the device, making it inaccessible to thieves. This can be accomplished by contacting the dealer or one of our technicians. You can purchase a replacement BMW key fob to re-establish your car's functionality.
Design
BMW key fobs were once large, clunky black rectangles that looked like a bottle opener from the distance. They were simple but functional. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it appear more appealing and less like a key opener. The new design also reduced the rough edges of the key that could poke into bags or pockets and made the keys more comfortable to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all of your vehicle's functionality in the palm of your hand. The BMW key fob has a small LCD screen that lets you lock and unlock your car, control the air conditioning and display vehicle information. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!
If you're in need of a replacement key fob, you can have the same great functionality by using the BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your vehicle with your smartphone provided you have a compatible model. This feature is available for 2021 and newer BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another new and exciting key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that allows you to start your vehicle and control some of its features with your smartphone. The app lets you remotely control your car’s climate control and monitor battery levels. You can even see how you've got gas left in your tank if the car is equipped with that feature.
The process for replacing a BMW Digital Key is the same regardless of whether you're using a traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. Our experts will assist you in the process if you bring the old and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover the cost of replacement in the event that your 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 done five times, by shifting the key from position one to zero and back. Then you can 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. It is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and is compatible with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the car and then start the engine. It also lets you share the key with up to five others.
The key fob is encrypted and transmits signals to the vehicle. It is therefore difficult for hackers and cloners to get the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even if the device is moving. The system also has a built-in alarm to prevent unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch, which is a common target for thieves.
BMW also provides a variety of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob is not near to the car. This feature is offered in several models from the brand and gives you security.
BMW's most advanced models come with keyless entry that allows drivers access and start their get more info car without having to manually insert a key or press any buttons. This feature is typically activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times in a single second. In certain situations, you may need to press the lock button on the fob three times, and then switch on an additional remote start feature in the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people choose to carry their BMW key fob in a signal-blocking pouch, which reduces the risk of a third-party broadcasting the identification signal from the fob and allowing access to the car. Some people prefer to use an ordinary case that doesn't have this feature, but it still protects the fob against scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars have been stolen by thieves who utilized a signal amplifier in order to increase the signal that identifies. This kind of attack, also known as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob in a pocket that blocks signals or by using an app on your phone to block signals.
Replacement
It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery dies, or you need an extra battery for a family member. Luckily, purchasing a replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and inexpensive. You can purchase a replacement from any dealership or locksmith who is authorized by BMW. A new key fob is likely to cost between $400 and $650, depending on the type of BMW you drive.
Check to see if there is other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming the new keyfob. Close all doors of your vehicle. Then put your new key fob into the ignition, and turn it to position 1, then back to position 0 five times rapidly. Hold down the unlock button and quickly press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. Once you've completed this, remove your key and turn the car on. The vehicle's doors lock and unlock. This means that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you may have keys that have a physical key blade inside it, or a fob that does not have one. Each one has a distinct method of synchronizing with your vehicle, but the steps for each are nearly identical. The only difference is that a key fob that has a metal key in it will need to be placed in the ignition whenever you are ready to start your car.
If you own a BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process is even more straightforward. After you've programmed the new key fob, simply insert it into your BMW's ignition and press the start button.
It is crucial to ensure that your BMW key fob in good condition. If you're looking for an entirely new BMW key fob or a replacement for your existing one, contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you choose the right key fob and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.