What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own an BMW you are likely to find that your key fob comes with a lot of functions. It can be used for many things, including unlocking your doors, controlling your windows, and even starting the engine.
There are a few secret techniques that you may not be aware of. Let's look at some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob consists of an incredibly small piece of plastic with many buttons incorporated into its side. Most of these buttons allow you to lock and unlock your car however, some are unique. For instance, 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. This is a great option for those who want to cool off their car in the heat of summer.
Another major function of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This feature is a safety measure to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the vehicle, the driver needs to first turn off the lock 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 is particularly helpful in situations where the driver is late for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car to get the door handle.
The BMW key fob can also be used for controlling the interior climate system. This is particularly useful for those who travel with multiple people, since it is possible to set each person's preferred temperature with their own key fob. If you own a hybrid BMW key fob can be used to monitor the charging status of the vehicle's battery.
While standard BMW key fobs can withstand normal levels of moisture, dropping them in water can cause significant damage. It is recommended to keep the key fob inside its case of protection when it is not in use. If you lose the key fob, a solution can be offered to disable it, rendering it useless for thieves. Contacting the dealer or our technicians can do this. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob can then be purchased to restore full functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were huge, clunky black rectangles that looked kind of like a bottle opener from the distance. They were basic, but useful. BMW then made them smaller and also added a plastic casing around the base to make it appear more appealing and less like a key opener. This new design also minimized the rough edges of keys that could poke through bags or pockets, and made the keys easier to hold.
BMW introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your hands. It lets you lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and see the information about your vehicle on a tiny LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models come with remote parking!
BMW Digital Keys are an excellent replacement if you need to replace the BMW key fob. You can unlock your car using your smartphone when you own an appropriate model. This feature is available on 2021 or more recent 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 control certain features using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely control the climate control of your car and check the battery level. You can even check how much gas is left in your tank, in the event that your car is equipped with this feature.
No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting the replacement is the same. Our experts will assist you with the process if you bring both your old key and the new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover replacement costs in the event that your 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 that was stored on it and render it useless. This is done five times, by changing the key from position one to zero and back. 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 is compatible with BMW Connected Drive. It allows you to unlock your vehicle and also start the engine. It also allows you to share the key with up to five others.
The key fob communicates with vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it difficult for hackers to steal and clone the signal. In addition to this, the UWB technology used in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even if the fob is in motion while it's being transported. The system utilizes an alarm to stop unauthorised starting and disables ignition switch.
BMW also offers a range of security options that are available, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob is not near to the car. This feature is offered in all models of the brand and gives you peace of mind.
Many of the more advanced BMW models have keyless access, which allows drivers to enter and start the vehicle without having manually push any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature is typically activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times within one second. In certain situations, you might need 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 keep their BMW keyfob in a bag that blocks signals. This decreases the possibility of a third-party broadcasting identifying code from the fob to gain access to the car. Some prefer an ordinary key case which does not have this feature, but it will protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars were stolen by criminals who just employed a signal amplifier to increase the here signal that identifies. This kind of attack is referred to 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 phone.
Replacement
Everyone has had this experience - the battery in your BMW key fob goes out or you have to purchase an extra one for your family. Fortunately, finding an alternative BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and affordable. You can buy the replacement from any dealership or locksmith who is authorized by BMW. A new key fob will typically cost between $400 and $650, depending on the model of BMW you drive.
To program the new key fob into your BMW first, make sure that there is no other key in the ignition. It is also recommended to shut all doors in your vehicle. Place your new key fob into the ignition and swiftly turn it from position 1 to 0, and then back again. Next, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you have finished this, remove your key and turn the car on. You should hear your car's doors unlock and lock. This means that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you might have a key blade in your key fob or without. Each fob has a different method of synchronizing with your car, however the steps for each are identical. The only difference is the metal key fob needs to be placed in the ignition to begin your vehicle.
If you own a BMW with Comfort Access the process is much simpler. After you have programmed the new key fob, simply insert it into your BMW's ignition and press the start button.
While your BMW is a fantastic way to get around Decatur, it is important that you keep your key fob in a good condition. If you are looking for a new BMW key fob or replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you find the right key fob to your car, and we can even upgrade your BMW with a Comfort Access upgrade to enable keyless entry and engine starting.