What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own an BMW you are likely to find that your key fob is equipped with many functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, control your windows, and even start the engine.
There are a few secret techniques that you may not know about. Here are a few of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a tiny, rectangular piece of plastic that has many buttons built into its side. Most of these buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, however a few have more unique functions. BMW owners, for instance can activate a hidden function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for those who want to cool their car during the scorching summer days.
The BMW key fob can also be used to start your car. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver must first press the lock on the key fob and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to start the vehicle remotely. This feature is especially useful when the driver is running late to work and does not have time to turn the door.
Additionally it is worth noting that the BMW key fob can also be used to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is especially convenient for people who travel with multiple people, as it is possible to set each person's preferred temperature with their own key fob. If you have a hybrid BMW key fob can be used to determine the charging status of the vehicle's battery.
While standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of humidity, dropping them into water can cause serious damage. It is best to store the key fob in its case that is protected when not in use. If you do lose the key fob, a solution is available to disable it, rendering it unusable for thieves. This can be accomplished by calling the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob can be purchased to restore full functionality to your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs used to be huge, clunky black rectangles that looked like an open bottle from a distance. They were basic, but they served a purpose. BMW then made them smaller and also added a plastic casing around the base to make it appear more attractive and less like a key opener. The new design also trimmed the rough edges of the keys that could pierce pockets or bags and made keys more comfortable to hold.
BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the features of your vehicle in your hand. It allows you to lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and display the vehicle's information on a small touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models come with remote parking!
BMW Digital Keys are a great replacement option if you have to replace your BMW key fob. You can unlock your car with your smartphone when you own a compatible model. This feature is available on 2021 and newer BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is a amazing new key from BMW that lets you start your car and use certain features using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely manage your car's climate control as well as check the battery level and much more! You can see how much fuel remains in your car if it has this feature.
No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting a replacement is similar. Our technicians will help you in the process if you bring both your old key and the new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase the 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 step is to reset the key, which erases any programming on it and render it useless. This is accomplished five times by quickly changing the key from position one to zero and back. Then, turn 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 Apple Watch or smartphone and is compatible with BMW Connected Drive. It key for bmw can unlock the vehicle and also start the engine. You can also share the key with five others.
The key fob communicates with the vehicle via encrypted signals. This makes it impossible for hackers to steal and clone the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents relay attacks even if it is in motion. The system also uses an alarm built-in to stop unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.
BMW offers a range of security features that are available as an option. Passive Start is one such feature that will disable the starter motor if the key fob does not remain within close proximity to your car. This feature is available on many of the brand's models and offers peace of mind.
A number of the more advanced BMW models come with keyless access, which lets drivers enter and start the vehicle without having manually push any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature is usually activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times within one second. In some instances it may be necessary to press the lock button on the fob three times and then turn on an additional remote start feature within the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW key fob in a pouch with a signal blocker, which reduces the risk of a third party broadcasting the identification signal from the fob and using it to gain access to the car. Others prefer to use a standard key case, which does not have this feature, but it will protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars were snatched by criminals using an amplifier for signal strength to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This kind of attack, also known as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob into an area that blocks signals, or by utilizing an app on your phone to block signals.
Replacement
It happens to everyone It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you need a spare for a family member. Luckily, purchasing the replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and inexpensive. You can purchase the replacement from any dealership or locksmith who is authorized by BMW. A new key fob will typically 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. You should also close all doors inside your vehicle. Place your new key fob in the ignition, and quickly change it from position 1 to 0, and back to position 1. Next, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you have finished this, take off your key and turn the car on. The doors should unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you may either have a key blade in your key fob, or that isn't. The process of synchronizing new fobs to your vehicle is different for each however, the steps are nearly identical. The only difference is the metal key fob needs to be placed in the ignition to start your car.
If you own an BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process is even more straightforward. After you have programmed the new key fob, simply connect it to your BMW's ignition and press the start button.
It is crucial to maintain your BMW key fob in good in good working order. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you find a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can assist you in selecting the best key fob for your needs and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.