What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own a BMW you are likely to find that your key fob is equipped with many functions. You can use it to do a variety of things, such as unlocking your doors, adjusting your windows as well as starting the engine.
There are some tricks that you may not be aware of. Let's look at some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small, rectangular piece of plastic with a number of buttons integrated into its side. The majority of these buttons allow you to lock and unlock your car however, a few are unique. For example, BMW owners can activate an in-built function on the key fob to lower all their windows at once by pressing the unlock button twice. This is perfect for those looking to cool off their car during a hot summer day.
Another major purpose of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the vehicle. This feature is a safety measure to ensure that no one is able to gain access to the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver must press the lock button on the key fob and then press the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to remotely start the car. This feature is especially beneficial when a driver is late to work and doesn't have time to turn the door handle.
Additionally lastly, the BMW key fob can be utilized to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is especially helpful for those traveling with multiple individuals as each key fob is able to set the preferred temperature for each person. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to check on the battery's charge status.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. It is best to store the key fob inside its protective case when not in use. If you do lose the key fob, a service can be offered to disable it, making it inaccessible to thieves. Contacting the dealer or one of our technicians will be able to do this. You can purchase a replacement BMW key fob to repair the functionality of your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were big, clunky rectangles in black that, from a distance, looked like a bottle opener. They were simple but functional. Then BMW began to make them smaller and also added a case made of plastic around the base of the key, which made it look nicer and less resemble an opener for bottles. The new design also trimmed the rough edges of keys that could poke through pockets or bags and made the keys easier to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the features of your car in the palm of your hand. It allows you to lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and view vehicle information on a small touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models come with remote parking!
BMW Digital Keys are a great alternative if you want to replace your BMW key fob. Just use your compatible smartphone to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is available for 2021 and more recent BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another new and exciting key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that allows you to start your car and control certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control the climate control of your car as well as check the battery level and more! You can also see how much fuel is left in your car if it has this feature.
If you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting the replacement is the same. You'll need to bring your working key along with the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will help you with everything. 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 you have to do is reset the key. This erases all programming and render it inoperable. This is accomplished by turning the key to position one and back in rapid succession five times in one 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 vehicle. The fob works with your Apple Watch or smartphone and is compatible with BMW Connected Drive. It allows you to unlock your vehicle and start the engine. You can also share the key with five other people.
The key fob communicates encrypted signals with 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 if the device is moving. The system utilizes an alarm to stop unauthorised starting and disables the ignition switch.
BMW offers a range of optional security features. Passive Start is one such feature that disables the starter motor when the key fob does remain within close proximity to your car. This feature is offered in several models from the brand and provides additional security.
A number of the more advanced BMW models come with keyless access which lets drivers enter and start the vehicle without having to manually use 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 certain situations it may be necessary to press the button to lock the fob three times and then switch on a separate remote start feature within the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW keyfob in a pouch that blocks signals. This decreases the possibility that a third party broadcasts the identifying code from the fob in order to gain access to the vehicle. Some prefer using a standard case that does not have the feature, but it does protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their cars were stolen by criminals who just employed a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signal. This kind of attack, referred to as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob into a pocket that blocks signals or by using an app on your phone 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. Luckily, purchasing a replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and inexpensive. You can purchase an alternative from any dealer or locksmith that is authorized by BMW. A new key fob can 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 begin programming the new keyfob. Close all doors of your vehicle. After that, insert the new key fob into the ignition and switch it to position 1, then back to position 0 five times in rapid succession. Hold down the unlock button, then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you have finished this, take off your key and turn the vehicle on. You should hear the doors unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you could either have a key blade inside your key fob or one without. Each key fob has its own process for synchronizing with your car, however the steps for each are nearly identical. The only difference is that the key fob with a metal key in it read more needs to be inserted into the ignition when you want to start the car.
If you have a BMW with Comfort Access the process is much simpler. Once you have programmed your new key fob into your BMW and inserted it into the ignition and press start.
While your BMW is a great way to travel around Decatur It is crucial that you keep your key fob in a good condition. If you're looking for a new BMW key fob or replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you choose the right key fob and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.