What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own an BMW it is likely that your key fob comes with a lot of functions. You can use it to do a variety of things, such as unlocking your doors, adjusting your windows, and even starting the engine.
There are a few tricks you may not be aware of. Let's take a look at some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob consists of an incredibly small piece of plastic with several buttons incorporated into its side. Most of these buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, but certain buttons have additional functions. BMW owners, for example can activate a hidden 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 in the heat of summer.
The BMW key fob can also be used to start your car. This feature is a great security measure and blocks unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver must press the lock button on the key fob, then press the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to remotely start the car. This feature is especially useful when a driver is late to work and doesn't have time to open the door.
The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the internal climate system. This is especially convenient for people who travel with multiple people, as it is possible to set each individual's preferred temperature using their own key fob. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to monitor the battery's charge status.
While standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of water, dropping them into water can cause significant damage. This is why it's best to keep the key fob in a safe case when not in use. If you lose your key fob we can offer a solution that will deactivate the device, making it useless to thieves. Contacting our dealer or technicians can do this. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob can be purchased to restore functionality to your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were large black, clunky rectangles that looked a bit like a bottle opener from the distance. They were basic, but they served a purpose. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it look better and less like the key opener. The new design also reduced the rough edges of the key which could pierce bags or pockets, and made the keys easier to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the functions of your vehicle in the palm of your hand. It allows you to lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and see vehicle information on a small LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. It even lets you park remotely on hybrid models!
If you're in need of a replacement, you can get the same functionality and features by using a BMW Digital Key. Just use your compatible smartphone to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your car! This feature is only available to BMW vehicles made after 2021 with the iDrive 8 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 allows you to remotely manage your car's climate control, check battery levels, and much more! You can also see the amount of fuel left in your car, if it's equipped with this feature.
If you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process for getting an replacement is the same. Our technicians will help you in the process if you bring your old key and the new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase an BMW Key Protection plan, which will pay for the cost of a replacement in the event that your keys are lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing you have to do is reset the key. This will erase all programming and render it useless. This is accomplished five times by rapidly shifting the key from one position to zero and back. Then you can turn the key to zero and then remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a convenient way to start your car. It is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and is compatible with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the vehicle and start the engine. It also allows you to share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob communicates with vehicle via encrypted signals. It is therefore extremely difficult for hackers and cloners, to intercept the signal. In addition the UWB technology in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even when the fob is in motion when it is being transported. The system also incorporates an inbuilt alarm system to block non-authorized starts and disables ignition switch, which is a common target for thieves.
BMW offers a variety of optional security features. Passive Start is one feature that will disable the starter motor if the key fob doesn't remain within close proximity to your car. This feature is available in many of the brand's models and offers peace of mind.
Many of the more advanced BMW models come with keyless access which lets drivers enter and start the vehicle without having manually use any buttons or insert the physical key. This feature is usually activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times in the span of a second. In some cases you may have to press the lock on the fob 3 times in order to activate the remote start feature on the dashboard or steering wheel.
Some people prefer to carry their BMW key fob in a signal-blocking pouch, which reduces the risk of a third-party broadcasting the identifying signal from the fob and using it to access the car. Others prefer to use an ordinary key case which doesn't have this feature but will still protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their vehicles have been stolen by criminals who just utilized a signal amplifier in order to increase the signal that identifies. This type of attack is referred to as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping the key fob in a signal-blocking pocket or by using an app that blocks signals on your smartphone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery dies, or you need a spare for a family member. Fortunately, finding the replacement BMW key fob and programming it to your car is easy and affordable. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can sell you an alternative key fob. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650 based on the type BMW you drive.
Make sure that there isn't other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming the new keyfob. Also, close all doors in your vehicle. Place your new key fob into the ignition and swiftly move it from position 1 to position 0, and then back to position bmw car key 1. Hold down the unlock button, then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, take off the key and then turn on the vehicle. The doors should lock and unlock, indicating that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you may have a key blade inside your key fob or that isn't. The process for syncing new fobs to your car is different for each one however, the steps are almost identical. The only difference is that a key fob with a metal key inside will need to be placed in the ignition whenever you are ready to start your car.
If you have a BMW with Comfort Access the process is even easier. Once you have programmed your new key fob into your BMW then, you can insert it into the ignition and press start.
While your BMW is a fantastic vehicle to travel around Decatur however, it is vital to keep your key fob in a good condition. If you are looking for an updated BMW key fob or a replacement for your existing one, contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you select the right key fob and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.