What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob is likely to have numerous functions. It can be used to do a variety of things, such as unlocking your doors, adjusting your windows, and even starting the engine.
But there are some hidden tricks that you might not have heard of. Here are a few of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob is an incredibly small piece of plastic that has many buttons incorporated into its sides. Most of these buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, however certain buttons have additional functions. BMW owners, for example, can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for people who want to cool their vehicle on the summer heat.
Another major benefit of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the vehicle. This is a fantastic security precaution that prevents unauthorised entry into the vehicle. To start the car, the driver has to first press the lock on the fob of the key and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to remotely start the car. This feature is particularly useful when a driver is running late to work and doesn't have time to open the door handle.
The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the interior climate system. This is particularly helpful for people who travel with multiple individuals, as it's possible to set each person's preferred temperature with their own key fob. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to monitor the battery's charge status.
While the standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of moisture, dropping them in water can cause significant damage. For this reason, it's recommended to keep the key fob in a secure case when not in use. If you have lost your key fob, we can provide a service that will disable the device, rendering it useless to thieves. Contacting the dealer or our technicians will be able to do this. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob can be purchased to restore full functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were huge, clunky rectangular shapes in black that from a distance looked like a bottle opener. 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 look more appealing and less like a key opener. The new design also trimmed the rough edges of the key which could pierce pockets or bags and made the keys easier for you to hold.
BMW introduced the Display Key which puts all the features of your vehicle in your palm. It allows you to lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and see vehicle information on a small touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!
BMW Digital Keys are a fantastic alternative if you want to replace your BMW key fob. You can unlock your car with your smartphone if you have an appropriate model. This feature is available for 2021 and later BMW vehicles that are equipped with the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another exciting new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which lets you start your car and use some of its features with your smartphone. The app allows you to manage your car's climate control and check battery levels. You can even check how you've got gas left in your tank should your car be equipped with that feature.
No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting an replacement is the same. Our technicians will help you with the process if you bring both your old key and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase the BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the costs of a replacement in the event that your keys are stolen or lost.
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 from position one, then back quickly, five times in one row. Then, turn it back to position zero and then pull it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. The fob is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and is compatible with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock lost bmw key the vehicle and also start the engine. It also allows you to share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob connects to 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 attacks on relays even when it is in motion. The system utilizes an alarm to block unauthorised starting and disables ignition switch.
BMW also offers a variety of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob isn't near to the vehicle. This feature is available in all models of the brand and offers peace of mind.
A lot of the more sophisticated BMW models come with keyless access which lets drivers enter and start the vehicle without having manually push any buttons or insert the physical key. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob in a single second. In some cases, you may need to press the lock button on the fob three times to then switch on a separate remote start feature in the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people prefer to carry their BMW key fob in a pouch with a signal blocker which minimizes the possibility 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 does not have this feature, but can protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their cars have been stolen by criminals who simply employed a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signal. This type of attack, also known as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob in a pocket that blocks signals or by using an application on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery fails, or you need a spare for your family member. Luckily, purchasing the replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your car is easy and affordable. You can buy a replacement from any dealership or locksmith that is authorized by BMW. A new key fob is likely to cost between $400 and $650, depending on the type of BMW you drive.
Check to see if there is other ignition key in your BMW before you begin programming the new keyfob. Close all the doors of your vehicle. Insert your new key fob into the ignition and swiftly change it from position 1 to zero, and then back again. Next, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. Once you've completed this, take off your key and turn the car on. You should hear your vehicle's doors lock and unlock. This means that the new key fob was successfully programmed.
Based 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 almost identical. The only difference is the metal key fob will need to be inserted into the ignition to start your vehicle.
If you have a BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process is even easier. Once you have programmed an entirely new key fob simply connect it to your BMW's ignition and press the start button.
It is important to ensure that your BMW key fob in working in good working order. Patrick BMW's parts department can assist you find a replacement BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you choose the correct key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.