What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob could have many functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, manage your windows and even start the engine.
There are a few tricks you may not know about. Here are a few of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob consists of a small rectangle of plastic that has many buttons incorporated into its side. Most of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, however a few have more unique functions. For instance, BMW owners can activate an invisible function on the key fob to lower all of their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button twice. This is perfect for those looking to cool down their car in the heat of summer.
Another important function of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the vehicle. This feature is a safety measure to ensure that no one is able to gain access to the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver has to press the lock button on the key fob, then press the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to remotely start the vehicle. This feature is particularly beneficial when a driver is late for work and does not have the time to pull the door handle.
The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the internal climate system. This is especially convenient for those who travel with multiple people, since it is possible to set each person's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to check on the battery's charging status.
Dropping them into 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 which will deactivate the device, rendering it inaccessible to thieves. Contacting the dealer or our technicians can do this. You can purchase a replacement BMW key fob to repair the functionality of your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were huge, clunky rectangular shapes in black that, from a distance, appeared like a bottle opener. They were basic, but useful. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it look more attractive and less like an opener for keys. This new design also minimized the rough key edges that could poke through bags or pockets and made keys more comfortable to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the functions of your vehicle in the palm of your hand. The BMW key fob comes with an LCD screen that allows you to lock and unlock your car, control the air conditioning and view the information about your vehicle. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!
If you're in need of an upgrade, you can get the same great function by using a BMW Digital Key. Simply use your smartphone to replace the BMW key fob and unlock your vehicle! This feature is only available for BMW vehicles built after 2021 that use the iDrive 8 system.
The Connected Remote key is a amazing new key from BMW that allows you to start your vehicle and operate some features with your smartphone. The app lets you remotely manage your car's climate control and check battery levels and much more! You can even see how much gas you have left in your tank should your car be equipped with that feature.
No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process for getting the replacement is the same. Our technicians will help 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 when keys are lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first step is to reset the key, which erases any programming it has and render it useless. This is done five times by rapidly turning the key from one position to zero and back. Then, turn it back to zero and then take off the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a easy method to start your car. The fob is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and is compatible with BMW Connected Drive. It allows you to unlock your vehicle and start the engine. You can also share the key with five people.
The key fob transmits encrypted signals to the vehicle. It is therefore impossible for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents relay attacks even if it is in motion. The system employs an alarm to block unauthorised starting and disables ignition switch.
BMW offers a range of optional security features. Passive Start is one of them. It disables the starter motor if the key fob doesn't remain in close proximity to your car. This feature is available in many of the brand's models and offers peace of mind.
Many of the more advanced BMW models offer keyless access, which allows drivers to get in and start the vehicle without having manually use 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 cases you may need to press the fob's lock 3 times in order to activate the remote start feature on the steering wheel or dashboard.
Some people carry their BMW keyfob in a pouch that blocks signals. This decreases the possibility of a third-party broadcasting the identification code from the fob to gain access to the car. Some people prefer to use a standard case that does not come with the feature, but still protects the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars were snatched by criminals who used an amplifier for signal strength to boost the identification signals. This kind of attack is known as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping the key fob in a signal-blocking pocket or by using a signal blocker app on your smartphone.
Replacement
Everybody has experienced this: the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you'll need to purchase an extra one for your family. Thankfully, getting a replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your car is easy and affordable. You can buy a replacement from any dealership or locksmith who is authorized by BMW. A new key fob is likely to cost new bmw key fob between $400 and $650, based on the kind of BMW you drive.
Make sure that there isn't other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming a new keyfob. Close all doors in your vehicle. Then you'll need to insert your new key fob in the ignition and move it to position 1, then return to position 0 five times rapidly. Next, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you have finished this, take off your key and turn your car on. You should hear the doors unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you could have a key blade in your key fob or that isn't. Each key fob has its own process for synchronizing with your car, but the steps for each are almost identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob will need to be put in the ignition to begin your car.
If you have a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is even simpler. Once you have programmed your new key fob into your BMW and inserted it into the ignition and press start.
While your BMW is a fantastic vehicle to travel around Decatur It is crucial that you keep your key fob in a good condition. If you're looking for an updated BMW key fob, or a replacement for your existing one, contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you find the right key fob to your car and even upgrade your BMW by introducing an upgrade to Comfort Access to allow keyless entry and engine starting.