What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own an BMW it is likely that your key fob comes with many functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, operate your windows, and even start the engine.
However, there are some secret techniques that you may not be aware of. Let's take a look some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob consists of a small rectangular piece of plastic with many buttons incorporated into its sides. Most of them unlock and lock the car, but a few are distinctive. BMW owners, for example can activate a hidden function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for people who want to cool their vehicle on the scorching summer days.
The BMW key fob can be used to start your vehicle. This is a security measure that prevents unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver has to press the lock button on the key fob and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to start the vehicle remotely. This feature is especially beneficial when a driver is late to work and does not have time to open the door.
The BMW key fob can also be used for controlling the interior climate system. This is especially convenient for those who travel with multiple people, as it is possible to set each person's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. For those who have a hybrid BMW, the key fob can be used to check the status of charging the battery of the vehicle.
Dropping them into water is not recommended. For this reason, it's best to keep the key fob in a secure case when not in use. If you happen to lose the key fob, a service can be offered to deactivate it, making it useless for thieves. This can be done by contacting the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob could be purchased to restore functionality to your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were once large, clunky rectangles of black that, from a distance, appeared like a bottle-opener. They were simple, but functional. Then BMW began to make them more compact and added an aluminum case around the base of the key, which made it appear more elegant and a little less like the bottle opener. The new design also reduced the rough edges of the key that could get into pockets or bags and made keys easier to hold.
BMW introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your palm. It lets you lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and see the information about your vehicle on a tiny touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models have remote parking!
BMW Digital Keys are an excellent replacement if you need to replace your BMW key fob. You can unlock your vehicle with your smartphone when you own an appropriate model. This feature is only available for BMW vehicles manufactured after 2021 that use the iDrive 8 system.
The Connected Remote key is another cool new key from BMW that allows you to start your vehicle and operate certain features using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely manage your car's climate control, check battery levels, and much more! You can even see how much gas is left in your tank in the event that your car is equipped with that feature.
The procedure for replacing the BMW Digital Key is the same regardless of whether you're using the traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. You'll need to bring your working key and the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will assist you with everything. You can also purchase the BMW Key Protection plan, which will pay for the cost of a replacement if 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 erases any programming that was stored on it and make it unusable. This is accomplished five times by rapidly shifting the key from position one to zero and back. Then you can turn the key until it is at zero and remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. The fob is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It allows you to unlock your vehicle and also start the engine. You can also share the key with five others.
The key fob communicates with vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it difficult for hackers to intercept and replicate the signal. In addition the UWB technology used in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even if the fob is in motion while it's being carried. The system also has a built-in alarm to prevent unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch which is a frequent target for thieves.
BMW also offers a variety of security options that are available, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob isn't near to the car. This feature is available on all models of the brand and offers peace of mind.
BMW's more sophisticated models include keyless entry, which lets drivers to access their car without having to manually insert a key or press any buttons. This feature is usually activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times within one second. In some instances, you may need to press the fob's lock 3 times in order to activate a remote start feature on the dashboard or steering wheel.
Some people prefer to carry their BMW key fob in a pouch that blocks signals which minimizes the possibility of a third party broadcasting the identification signal from the fob and using it to gain access to the car. Some people prefer to use an ordinary case that doesn't have this feature, but still protects the fob against scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars were snatched by criminals who used signal amplifiers to boost the identifying signals. This type of attack, known as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob into an area that blocks signals, or by installing an app on your phone to block signals.
Replacement
Everyone has experienced this - the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you have to purchase another one for your family. It's affordable and easy to get a replacement BMW fob and then program it into your car. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can sell you a replacement key fob. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650, depending on the kind of BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob for your BMW first, ensure that there isn't another key in the ignition. You should also close all doors in your vehicle. Then, insert the new key fob check here into the ignition, and turn it to position 1, then return to position 0 five times quickly. Next, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. Once you've completed this, remove the key and switch on the vehicle. 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 could have a key blade inside your key fob, or that isn't. Each one has a distinct method of synchronizing with your car, however the steps for each are identical. The only difference is that the fob with a metal key in it needs to be placed in the ignition whenever you want to start the car.
If you have a BMW with Comfort Access the process is much simpler. Once you have programmed your new key fob in your BMW, insert it in the ignition and press start.
While your BMW is a fantastic vehicle to travel around Decatur, it is important that you keep your key fob in good working condition. Patrick BMW's parts department can help you find a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can assist you in selecting the best key fob for your needs and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.