What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob could have many functions. It can be used to do a variety of things, such as unlocking your doors, adjusting your windows, and even starting the engine.
There are some tricks you might not be aware of. Let's look at some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic that has a number of buttons integrated into its side. Most of them unlock and lock the car however, a few are distinct. For instance, BMW owners can activate an in-built function on their key fob to lower all of their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button twice. This is a great option for those who want to cool their vehicle during the scorching summer days.
The BMW key fob can also be used to start your car. This feature is a safety measure to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver has to press the lock button on the key fob and then press the circular arrow. For newer BMW models, this feature can also be used to remotely start the car. This feature is particularly useful when a driver is running late to work and doesn't have the time to pull the door handle.
Finally, the BMW key fob can also be utilized to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is particularly helpful for people who travel with multiple people, as it is possible to set each person's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to check on the battery's charging status.
While standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of water, dropping them into water can cause significant damage. It is best to store the key fob in its case of protection when it is not in use. If you do lose the key fob, a solution is available to disable it, making it inaccessible to thieves. This can be accomplished by calling the dealer or one of our technicians. You can buy a replacement BMW key fob to restore your car's functionality.
Design
BMW key fobs were once big rectangular black pieces that looked like a bottle opener from the distance. They were basic, but they served a purpose. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it appear better and less like the key opener. This new design also reduced rough edges on the key that could poke into bags or pockets and made keys more comfortable to hold.
BMW introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your hand. The BMW key fob comes with an LCD screen that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, control the air conditioning, and access the information about your vehicle. Even hybrid models can have remote parking!
BMW Digital Keys are a great replacement if you need to replace your BMW key fob. You can unlock your vehicle by using your smartphone, when you own an appropriate model. This feature is only available on BMW vehicles built after 2021 that use the iDrive 8 system.
The Connected Remote key is a cool new key from BMW that allows you to start your car and control certain features using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control your car's climate control and check battery levels and much more! You can even see how you've got gas left in your tank, in the event that your car is equipped with that feature.
The process of replacing the 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 your old key and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase the BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover the cost of replacement if your keys get lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing to do is reset the key. This erases all programming and render it unusable. This is done by turning the key from position one and back in rapid succession, five times in the same row. Then, turn it to position zero and take off the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. The fob is compatible 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 allows you to share the key with up to five others.
The key fob connects to the vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it difficult for hackers to steal and bmw keys replicate the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents relay attacks even if it is moving. The system uses an alarm to block unauthorised starting and disables the 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 does remain within close proximity to your car. This feature is available on several models from the brand and offers peace of mind.
BMW's most advanced models come with keyless entry, which allows users to start their vehicle without having to manually inserting a key or pressing any buttons. This feature is usually activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times in a single second. In certain situations it is possible to press the button to lock the fob three times to then activate a separate remote start feature within the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people keep their BMW key fob in a case that blocks signals. This reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting identifying code from the fob in order to gain access to the vehicle. Some people prefer to use a standard case, which does not have the feature, but still protects the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars have been taken by criminals who simply employed a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signal. 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-blocking app on your smartphone.
Replacement
Everybody has experienced this: the battery in your BMW key fob goes out or you need to buy an extra one for your family. It's affordable and easy to purchase a replacement BMW fob and then program it into your car. You can purchase a replacement from any dealership or locksmith who is authorized by BMW. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650, based on the model of BMW you drive.
Check to see if there is other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming the new keyfob. Also, close all doors inside your vehicle. Insert your new key fob into the ignition and swiftly move it from position 1 to 0, and then back again. Hold the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you have finished this, remove your key and turn the car on. You should hear your car's doors unlock and lock. This means that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you could either have a key blade on your key fob, or that isn't. The process of synchronizing new fobs to your car differs for each however, the steps are similar. The only difference is the metal key fob has to be inserted in the ignition to begin your vehicle.
If you have a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is much simpler. After you've programmed the new key fob, simply connect it to the ignition of your BMW and press the start button.
It is important to maintain your BMW key fob in working condition. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you locate a new BMW fob or replacement. We can assist you in finding the right key fob for your vehicle, and we can even upgrade your BMW by introducing an upgrade to Comfort Access to enable keyless entry and engine starting.