What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own a BMW it is likely that your key fob has many functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, manage your windows, and even start your engine.
However, there are some secret techniques that you may not know about. Here are some of the most effective.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic with a number of buttons integrated into its side. The majority of the buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, but certain buttons have additional 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 people who wish to cool down their car during the scorching summer days.
The BMW key fob can be used to start your vehicle. This feature is a safety measure to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver must press the lock button on the key fob, then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to start the vehicle remotely. This is particularly useful in situations where the driver is running late for work and doesn't have time to get out of the car to get the door.
Finally it is worth noting that the BMW key fob may also be used to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is particularly convenient for those who travel with multiple individuals as each key fob can be used to set the temperature for each person. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to check on the battery's charge status.
While the standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of humidity, dropping them into water can cause severe damage. It is recommended to keep the key fob inside its protective case when it is not in use. If you have lost your key fob, we can offer a service that will deactivate the device, rendering it inaccessible to thieves. Contacting our dealer or technicians will do this. You can purchase a new BMW key fob to repair your car's functionality.
Design
BMW key fobs were once large, clunky black rectangles that looked a bit like an opener for bottles from a distance. They were simple but functional. BMW then made them smaller and also added a plastic casing around the base to make it appear more attractive and less like the key opener. The new design also trimmed rough edges on the keys 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 of your vehicle's functionality in the palm of your hand. The BMW key fob has small LCD screens that lets you lock and unlock your vehicle, operate the air conditioning and view the information about your vehicle. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!
BMW Digital Keys are an excellent replacement if you need to replace your BMW key fob. You can use any smartphone compatible to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is only available to BMW vehicles manufactured after 2021 using the iDrive 8 system.
The Connected Remote key is another cool new key from BMW that allows you to start your car and control certain functions using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely manage your car's climate control as well as check the battery level and more! You can check how much fuel remains in your car if it has this feature.
The process of replacing the BMW Digital Key is the same, whether you use a traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. Our technicians will assist you in the process if you bring both your old key and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the cost 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 step is to reset the key, which will erase any programming that was stored on it and render it inoperable. This is accomplished by turning the key to position one and back in rapid succession five times in a row. Then, you turn it back to zero and then take off the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. The fob is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It allows you to unlock your vehicle and then start the engine. It also lets you share the key with up to five others.
The key fob communicates with vehicle via encrypted signals. It is therefore extremely difficult for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even when it is in motion. The system also uses an inbuilt alarm system to block unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch, which is a common target for thieves.
BMW offers a range of security features that are available as an option. Passive Start is one of them. It disables the starter motor when the key fob does remain within close proximity to your car. This feature is offered in all models of the brand and gives you peace of mind.
BMW's most advanced models come with keyless entry that allows drivers access and start their car without having to manually inserting a key or pressing any buttons. This feature is typically activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times within one second. In some cases you may have to press the lock on more info the fob 3 times in order to activate a remote start feature on the steering wheel or dashboard.
Some people carry their BMW key fob in a signal-blocking pouch which minimizes the possibility of a third party broadcasting the signal that identifies the fob and allowing access to the car. Some prefer the standard key case which doesn't have this feature but will still protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals who used an amplifier for signal strength to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. 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 using a signal-blocking app on your phone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you require an extra battery for someone in your family. It's affordable and easy to purchase a new BMW fob, and then program it into your car. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths can sell you a replacement key fob. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650 based on the type BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob for your BMW first, make sure that there is no other key in the ignition. Close all doors in your vehicle. Insert your new key fob in the ignition, then quickly move it from position 1 to position 0, and then back to position 1. Hold the unlock button and quickly press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, remove the key and turn on the car. The doors will unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car depending on the model of your car, you could have an ignition key fob with an actual key blade in it, or a key fob without one. Each key fob has its own process for synchronizing with your vehicle, but the steps for each are nearly identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob needs to be put in the ignition to start your car.
If you own an BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even simpler. Once you have programmed your new key fob in your BMW and inserted it into the ignition and press start.
It is important to maintain your BMW key fob in good order. 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 or engine starting.