What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have an BMW you are likely to find that your key fob is equipped with many functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, manage your windows and even start 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 rectangle of plastic that has a number buttons embedded in its side. Most of these buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, however some have additional functions. For example, BMW owners can activate an in-built function on their key fob to lower all their windows at once by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is a great option for those who wish to cool down their vehicle on the scorching summer days.
Another important benefit of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This feature is a safety measure to ensure that no one is able to gain access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver must first press the lock on the key fob, and then 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 late to work and does not have the time to pull the door.
The BMW key fob also has the capability of controlling the interior climate system. This is especially convenient for those who travel with multiple individuals, as it's possible to set each individual's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to check on the battery's charging status.
Dropping them into water is not recommended. For this reason, it's a good idea to keep the key fob in a protective case when not in use. If you do lose the key fob, a solution can be offered to deactivate it, making it useless for thieves. Contacting our dealer or technicians can do this. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob can then be purchased to restore functionality to your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were huge black, clunky rectangles that looked kind of like an opener for bottles from a distance. They were basic, but useful. BMW then made them smaller and also added a plastic casing around the base to make it look better and less like a key opener. This new design also minimized the rough edges of the keys which could puncture bags or pockets, and made keys easier to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the features of your car in your hand. It lets you lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and see the vehicle's information on a small touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models can have remote parking!
If you're in need of a replacement key fob, you can have the same great functionality with the BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your vehicle 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.
The Connected Remote key is a innovative key from BMW that lets you start your car and use certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely manage your car's climate control, check battery levels, and more! You can check how much fuel is left in your car, if it's equipped with this feature.
The procedure for replacing the BMW Digital Key is the same regardless of whether you're using an old-fashioned key or a BMW Digital Key. Our experts will assist you in the process if you bring both the old and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover the cost of replacement in the event that your keys are 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 inoperable. This is accomplished by turning the key from position one, then back quickly five times in a row. Then switch the key until it is at zero and then remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. The fob works with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle and start the engine and more. You can also share the key with five people.
The key fob transmits encrypted signals with the vehicle. It is therefore extremely difficult for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. Additionally, the UWB technology in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is in motion when it is being transported. The system also uses an alarm built-in to stop unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch which is a frequent target for thieves.
BMW offers a variety of security options that can be added. Passive Start is one such feature that will disable the starter motor if the key fob does remain close to your car. This feature is offered in many of the brand's models and offers peace of mind.
BMW's more advanced models feature keyless entry that allows users to start their car without having to manually insert a key or push any buttons. This feature is typically activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times in a single second. In some cases it may be necessary to press the button to lock the fob three times and then activate an additional remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people choose to carry their BMW key fob in a signal-blocking pouch, which reduces the risk of a third-party broadcasting the signal that identifies the fob and using it to gain access to the car. Some people prefer to use an ordinary case that does not have the feature, but it still protects the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars were stolen by criminals who used signal amplifiers to boost the identification signals. This kind 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
Everyone has had this experience - the battery in your BMW key fob fails or you need to buy an extra one for your family. Luckily, purchasing a replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your car is easy and affordable. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can sell you the 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 isn't another key in the ignition. It is also recommended to shut all doors in your vehicle. After that put the new key fob into the ignition, and turn it to position 1, then return to position 0 five times in rapid succession. Press the unlock button and quickly press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, take off your key and turn the vehicle on. You should hear your car's doors unlock and lock. This indicates that the new key fob was successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you may have a key blade in your key fob or one without. The process of synchronizing new fobs with your car differs for each however, the steps are nearly identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob will need to be placed 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 in your BMW and inserted it into the ignition and press start.
It is important to keep your BMW key fob in working website order. If you are looking for an entirely new BMW key fob or replacement one, you can reach the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can assist you in selecting the right key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.