What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own a BMW it is likely that your key fob has many functions. It can be used to do a variety of things, such as opening your doors, controlling your windows as well as starting the engine.
However, there are some hidden tricks that you might not know about. Let's take a look some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob consists of a small rectangle of plastic with a number buttons embedded into its side. Most of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, however a few have more unique functions. BMW owners, for instance, can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is a great option for those who want to cool their vehicle during the summer heat.
The BMW key fob can be used to start your vehicle. This is a fantastic security measure and blocks unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the car, the driver has to first press the lock on the fob of the key and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to start the vehicle remotely. This is especially useful in a situation where the driver is running late for work and doesn't have time to get out of the car to get the door.
The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the interior climate system. This is especially useful for people who travel with several people since each key fob is able to set the preferred temperature of each person. If you own a hybrid BMW, the key fob can be used to monitor the status of charging the battery of the vehicle.
While the standard BMW key fobs can withstand normal levels of humidity, dropping them into water can cause serious damage. It's best to store the key fob inside its case of protection when not in use. If you lose your key fob, we can offer a service which will deactivate the device, making it inaccessible to thieves. This can be done by contacting the dealer or one of our technicians. You can purchase a new BMW key fob to re-establish your car's functionality.
Design
BMW key fobs were big black, clunky rectangles that looked a bit like a bottle opener from the distance. They were simple, but functional. BMW then made them smaller and put a plastic casing around the base to make it appear more appealing and less like the key opener. This new design also reduced the rough edges of keys that could poke through bags or pockets and made keys more comfortable to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all of your vehicle's functionality in your hand. It allows you to lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and see the information about your vehicle on a tiny LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models can have remote parking!
If you're in need of an alternative, you can get the same functionality and features by using the BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your vehicle by using your smartphone, provided you have an appropriate model. This feature is available on 2021 or newer BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another cool new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that lets you start your car and control certain features using your smartphone. The app allows you to control the climate control click here of your car and check the battery level. You can even see how much gas you have left in your tank, if the car is equipped with that feature.
Whether you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting a replacement is similar. Our technicians will assist you with the process if you bring both your old key and the new one to Patrick BMW. You can also choose to purchase the BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the costs of a replacement if your keys get lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing you need to do is reset the key. This will erase all programming and render it inoperable. This is accomplished by turning the key to position one and then back in rapid 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 efficient method to start your car. The fob works with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It allows you to unlock your vehicle and then start the engine. You can also share the key with five others.
The key fob communicates 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 attacks on relays even when it is in motion. The system also incorporates a built-in alarm to prevent unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch, which is a common target for thieves.
BMW offers a range of security features that are available as an option. Passive Start is one feature that disables the starter motor when the key fob does not remain close to your car. This feature is available on a variety of BMW models and offers additional peace of mind.
A number of the more advanced BMW models come with keyless access that lets drivers enter and start the vehicle without having to manually push any buttons or insert an actual key. This feature is typically activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times in a single second. In certain situations, you might need to press the lock on the fob three times to activate the remote start feature on the dashboard or steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW keyfob in a pouch that blocks signals. This minimizes the risk that a third party broadcasts the identifying code from the fob to gain access to the car. Some prefer a standard key case, which doesn't have this feature, but can protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals using a signal amplifier to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This type of attack, known as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob in pockets that block signals, or by installing an app on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
Everybody has experienced this: the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you need to buy an extra one for your family. It's easy and affordable to get a replacement BMW fob and then program it into your car. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can offer you a replacement key fob. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650, depending on the model of BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob to your BMW first, make sure that there is no other key in the ignition. Close all doors in your vehicle. Insert your new key fob in the ignition, and quickly move it from position 1 to position zero, and then back again. Hold down the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you have finished this, take off your key and turn the car on. The doors will unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you may have a key blade on your key fob or without. The procedure for syncing new fobs to your vehicle is different for each however, the steps are almost identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob needs to be put into the ignition to start your car.
If you own a BMW with Comfort Access the process is much simpler. Once you have programmed your new key fob to your BMW then, you can insert it into the ignition and press start.
It is essential to keep your BMW key fob in working condition. Patrick BMW's parts department can help you find a replacement BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you find the perfect key fob for your vehicle and even upgrade your BMW with an upgrade to Comfort Access to enable keyless entry as well as engine starting.