What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own an BMW, chances are that your key fob has a lot of functions. You can use it for many things, including opening your doors, controlling your windows, and even starting the engine.
However, there are some hidden tricks that you might not have heard of. Let's take a look at some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small, rectangular piece of plastic that has several buttons incorporated into its side. Most of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, and some have additional functions. 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.
Another important benefit of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This is a security measure that prevents unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver must press the lock button on the key fob and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to remotely start the vehicle. This is particularly helpful in situations where the driver is in a hurry for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car to open the door handle.
The BMW key fob can also be used for controlling the interior climate system. This is especially useful for those traveling with multiple people as each key fob can be used to set the preferred temperature for each individual. If you own hybrid BMW, the key fob can be used to determine 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 protective case when it is not in use. If you lose your key fob we can provide a service that will disable the device, making it useless to thieves. Contacting the dealer or one of our technicians will be able to do this. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob could be purchased to restore full functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were once large, clunky rectangles of black that, from a distance, looked like a bottle-opener. They were simple, but functional. Then BMW began to make them smaller and put a case made of plastic around the base of the key, which made it look nicer and less resemble the bottle opener. This new design also minimized the rough edges of keys that could pierce pockets or bags and made 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. It allows you to lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and see 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 an excellent replacement if you need to replace your BMW key fob. You can unlock your car by using your smartphone, provided you have a compatible model. This feature is only available to BMW vehicles made after 2021 with the iDrive 8 system.
Another exciting new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that allows you to start your car and operate some of its features with your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely manage your car's climate control and check the battery level. 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 an replacement is the same. You'll need to bring your working key along with the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will assist you with everything. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover replacement costs in the event that your keys are lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first step is to reset the key, which will erase any programming that was stored on it and make it unusable. This is done by turning the key to position one, then back in quick succession, five times in a row. Then, turn it to zero and then take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a easy method to start your vehicle. The fob pairs with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle, start the engine, and more. It also allows you to share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob communicates with vehicle via encrypted signals. It is therefore difficult for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. In addition the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is moving while it's being carried. The system employs an alarm to block unauthorised starting and disables ignition switch.
BMW offers a range of security features that are available as an option. 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 offered in several models from the brand and offers security.
Many of the more advanced BMW models come with 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 typically activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times in a single 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 keyfob in a pouch that blocks signals. This decreases the possibility of a third-party broadcasting the unique code that is on the fob to gain access to the car. Some prefer using a standard case that doesn't have this feature, but still protects the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners reported that their cars were snatched by criminals who used signal amplifiers to boost the identifying signals. This kind of attack is referred to as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping your key fob in a signal blocking pocket or by installing a signal-blocking app on your phone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery fails or you need a spare for your family member. Luckily, purchasing a replacement BMW key fob and programming it to your car is easy and affordable. You can purchase the replacement from any dealership or locksmith that is authorized by BMW. A new key fob can cost 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 in your vehicle. Place your new key fob in the ignition, and quickly change it from position 1 to 0, and back to position 1. Then, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you've completed this, remove 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 get more info on the model of your car, you could have a key blade on 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 fob that has a metal key inside will need to be put into the ignition when you want to start the car.
If you own a BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even easier. After you have programmed a new key fob, simply insert it into your BMW's ignition and press the start button.
While your BMW is a great way to get around Decatur It is crucial that you keep your key fob in good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department can assist you find a replacement BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you select the right key fob and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.