What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own a BMW it is likely that your key fob comes with numerous 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 look at some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic that has many buttons incorporated into its sides. The majority of these buttons allow you to lock and unlock your car, but a few are distinctive. For instance, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on the key fob to lower all their windows at once by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is a great option for those who want to cool their vehicle on a hot summer's day.
The BMW key fob can also be used to begin your vehicle. This is a fantastic security measure and blocks unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, drivers must first press the lock button on the key fob, then the circular arrow. For newer BMW models it can be used to remotely start the vehicle. This is particularly useful in a situation where the driver is running late for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car to get the door.
The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the interior climate system. This is particularly helpful for those who travel with several individuals, as it's possible to set each person's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to check the battery's charge status.
Dropping them into water is not recommended. It's best to keep the key fob in a protective case when not in use. If you do lose the key fob, a replacement is available to deactivate it, making it unusable for thieves. This can be done by contacting the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob can be purchased to restore functionality to your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were once large, clunky rectangles of black that, from a distance, looked like a bottle-opener. They were basic, but useful. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it look more appealing and less like the key opener. This new design also reduced the rough key edges that could poke through pockets or bags and made the keys easier to hold.
BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the features of your vehicle in your palm. The BMW key fob has a small LCD screen that lets you lock and unlock your car, control the air conditioning and display the vehicle's information. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!
BMW Digital Keys are a fantastic alternative if you want to replace the BMW key fob. You can unlock your vehicle using your smartphone when you own an appropriate model. This feature is only available on BMW vehicles built after 2021 using the iDrive 8 system.
The Connected Remote key is another cool new key from BMW that lets you start your car and use certain features using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control your car’s climate control and check battery levels. You can check how much fuel is left in your car if it is equipped with this feature.
No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process for getting the replacement is the same. Our technicians will assist you with the process when you bring the old and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase an BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover the cost of replacement when 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 from position one and back in quick succession, five times in one row. Then switch the key until it is at zero and then remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a efficient way to start your vehicle. 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 start the engine. You can also share the key with five others.
The key fob communicates encrypted signals with the vehicle. This makes it impossible for hackers to intercept and replicate the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents relay attacks even if it is moving. The system also has an inbuilt alarm system to block non-authorized starts and disables ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.
BMW also offers a variety of security options that are available, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob is not in close proximity to the vehicle. This feature is offered on a number of BMW models and offers an additional level of security.
BMW's most advanced models come with keyless entry that allows drivers access and start their vehicle without having to manually insert a key or push any buttons. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob in just one second. In some instances it is possible to press the lock button on the fob three times, and then activate a separate remote start feature in the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW key fob in a pouch that blocks signals which minimizes the possibility of a third party broadcasting the identification signal from the fob and allowing access to the car. Others prefer to use an ordinary key case which does not 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 simply used a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signal. This kind of attack, known as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob into a pocket that blocks signals, or by installing an app on your phone to block signals.
Replacement
It happens to everyone It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you need an extra battery for your family member. Luckily, purchasing the replacement BMW key fob and programming it to your car is easy and affordable. You can buy an alternative from any dealer or locksmith authorized by BMW. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650, based on the kind of BMW you drive.
Make sure there is no other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming the new keyfob. Close all the doors of your vehicle. Insert your new key fob in the ignition, and quickly turn it from position 1 to position zero, and then back again. Then, hold down the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you've completed this, take off your key and turn the vehicle on. You should hear your car's doors unlock and lock. This indicates that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Depending on your car model, you may have a key fob that has a physical key blade inside it, or a key fob that does not have one. Each key fob has its own process to sync with your vehicle, but the steps for each are nearly identical. The only difference is that the fob that has a metal key in it will get more info need to be inserted into the ignition when you want to start the car.
If you own a BMW with Comfort Access the process is much simpler. Once you have programmed a new key fob, simply connect it to the ignition of your car and press the start button.
It is important to ensure that your BMW key fob in good in good working order. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you find a replacement BMW fob or a replacement. We can assist you in selecting the right key fob and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.