What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have an BMW, chances are that your key fob is equipped with many functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, operate your windows and even start the engine.
There are some tricks 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 that has several buttons incorporated into its sides. Most of these buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, but a few have more unique functions. For example, BMW owners can activate an in-built function on the key fob to lower all of their windows at once by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for people who want to cool their car during the scorching summer days.
Another significant purpose of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the vehicle. This feature is a great security precaution that prevents unauthorised entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, drivers must first press the lock button on the key fob and then press the circular arrow. For newer BMW models the feature can be used to remotely start the vehicle. This is particularly helpful in situations where the driver is late for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car and open the door handle.
Additionally, the BMW key fob may also be utilized to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is particularly helpful for people who travel with multiple individuals, as it's possible to set each individual's preferred temperature using their own key fob. If you have hybrid BMW key fob, it can be used to check the charging status of the battery in the vehicle.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. This is why it's best to keep the key fob in a safe case when not in use. If you have lost your key fob, we can offer a solution which will deactivate the device, making it inaccessible to thieves. This can be done by contact with the dealer or one of our technicians. You can buy a replacement BMW key fob to re-establish the functionality of your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were big, clunky rectangles in black that, from a distance, appeared like a bottle-opener. They were simple but functional. BMW then made them smaller and also added a plastic casing around the base to make it look more attractive and less like the key opener. The new design also trimmed the rough edges of the key that could poke into bags or pockets, and made the keys easier for you to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the features of your car in the palm of your hand. The BMW key fob has a small LCD screen which allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, operate the air conditioning and view the information about your vehicle. Even hybrid models come with remote parking!
If you're in need of a replacement key fob, you can have the same great functionality by using the BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your vehicle with your smartphone provided you have a compatible model. This feature is available on 2021 or newer BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another exciting new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which allows you to start your vehicle and use certain functions using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely control the climate control of your car and check battery levels. You can check the amount of fuel left in your car if it is equipped with this feature.
Whether you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting an replacement is the same. You'll have to bring the original key along with the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will assist you with everything. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover replacement costs when keys are lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first step is to reset the key, which will erase any programming on it and render it useless. This is accomplished by turning the key to position one and back in rapid succession, five times in one row. Then, turn the key to position zero and take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy 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 also start the engine. You can also share the key with five other people.
The key fob communicates with the vehicle using encrypted signals. It is therefore extremely difficult for hackers and cloners, to intercept the signal. In addition, the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is moving while it's being carried. The system utilizes an alarm to stop unauthorised starting and disables the ignition switch.
BMW also offers a variety of optional security features, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob is not near to the vehicle. This feature is available on a variety of BMW models and offers an additional level of security.
A lot of the more sophisticated BMW models offer keyless access which allows drivers to enter and start the car without having to manually press any buttons or insert the physical key. This feature can be activated by pressing three times on the lock button of the fob in a single second. In website some cases you may have to press the fob's lock three times to activate a remote start feature on the dashboard or steering wheel.
Some people keep their BMW keyfob in a pouch that blocks signals. This minimizes the risk of a third-party broadcasting the unique code that is on the fob in order to gain access to the car. Some people prefer to use an ordinary case that does not have the feature, but it does protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars were stolen by criminals who simply utilized a signal amplifier in order to increase the signal that identifies. 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 installing a signal-blocking app on your smartphone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery dies or you require an extra battery for someone in your family. Fortunately, finding an alternative BMW key fob and programming it into your car is easy and inexpensive. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths 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 for your BMW first, ensure that there isn't another key in the ignition. Close all the doors of your vehicle. Insert your new key fob in the ignition, and quickly change it from position 1 to 0, and back again. Then, hold down the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you've completed this, remove the key and switch on the vehicle. The doors will unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car You may have keys that have a key blade that is physically inside it, or a key fob that doesn't have one. The process for syncing new fobs to your car is different for each, but the steps are similar. The only difference is the metal key fob needs to be placed in the ignition to start your car.
If you own an BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even more straightforward. Once you have programmed your new key fob to your BMW then, you can insert it into the ignition and press start.
It is important to keep your BMW key fob in working order. Patrick BMW's parts department can help you find a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you choose the correct key fob and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.