What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob probably has many functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, manage your windows and even start your engine.
There are a few tricks you may not know about. Here are some of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a tiny, rectangular piece of plastic that has many buttons built into its side. The majority of these buttons allow you to lock and unlock your car, but a few are distinctive. For example, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on their key fob to lower all of their windows at once by pressing the unlock button twice. This is ideal for those who want to cool their vehicle during a hot summer's day.
The BMW key fob can also be used to start your vehicle. This is a fantastic security measure and blocks unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver has to press the lock button on the key fob, then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to remotely start the car. This feature is especially beneficial when a driver is running late to work and doesn't have time to open the door.
The BMW key fob also has the capability of controlling the internal climate system. This is especially useful for those traveling with multiple people as each key fob is able to set the temperature for each person. If you own hybrid BMW key fob, it can be used to check the charging status of the vehicle's battery.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. It's recommended to keep the key fob in a protective case when not in use. If you happen to lose the key fob, a solution can be offered to disable it, making it inaccessible to thieves. Contacting our dealer or technicians will do this. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob can be purchased to restore full functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs used to be big rectangular black pieces that looked a bit like an open bottle from a distance. They were simple but functional. Then BMW began to make them a little smaller and put an aluminum case around the key's base that made it look nicer and less like the bottle opener. The new design also reduced rough edges on the keys that could poke into pockets or bags and made keys more comfortable to hold.
BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the functions of your car in your palm. The BMW key fob has an LCD screen that lets you lock and unlock your vehicle, operate the air conditioning and view vehicle information. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!
BMW Digital Keys are an excellent alternative if you want 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 that use the iDrive 8 system.
Another new and exciting key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which allows you to start your vehicle and use certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control your car’s climate control and check the battery level. You can check the amount of fuel left in your car if it is equipped with this feature.
The procedure for replacing a BMW Digital Key is the same, whether you use a traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. Our technicians will help you in the process if you bring both your old key 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 step is to reset the key, which erases any programming on it and render it inoperable. This is accomplished by turning the key from position one and back in rapid succession five times in one row. Then, turn it back to zero and then take off the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a convenient way to start your vehicle. The fob works with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle or 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. It is therefore difficult for hackers and cloners, to intercept the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even if the device is moving. The system utilizes an alarm to block unauthorised starting and disables the ignition switch.
BMW also offers a range of optional security features, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob isn't near to the car. This feature is offered in many of the brand's models and offers peace of mind.
Many of the more advanced BMW models have keyless access which allows drivers to enter and start the car without having to manually press any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature is typically activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times within one second. In some cases you may need to press the lock on the fob 3 times in order to activate the remote start feature on the steering wheel or dashboard.
Some people choose to carry their BMW key fob in a pouch that blocks signals that reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting the identifying signal from the fob and using it to access the car. Some people prefer to use an ordinary case that does not have the feature, but it does protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners reported that their cars were stolen by criminals using an amplifier for signal strength to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This type of attack, also known as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob in pockets that block signals or by using an app on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
Everyone has had this experience - the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you have to purchase a spare one for a family. Luckily, purchasing the replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and affordable. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can offer 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.
Make sure that there isn't other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming a new keyfob. It is also recommended to shut the doors of your vehicle. Put your new key fob into the ignition, and quickly move it from position 1 to position zero, and then back to position 1. Then, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. Once you've completed this, take off your key and turn your car on. You should hear your 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 either have a key blade on your key fob or without. The procedure for syncing new fobs to your car differs for each however, the steps are almost identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob will need to be inserted into the ignition to start your car.
If you own a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is even simpler. Once you have programmed your new key fob in your BMW then, you can insert it into the ignition and bmw keys replacement press start.
While your BMW is a fantastic vehicle to travel around Decatur however, it is vital that you keep your key fob in a good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department can help you find a replacement BMW fob or replacement. We can help you select the best key fob for your needs and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.