What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob could have numerous functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, operate your windows, and even start the engine.
There are some tricks you might not know about. Let's take a look 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. Most of these buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, and certain buttons have additional functions. For instance, BMW owners can activate an in-built function on the key fob to lower all their windows at once by pressing the unlock button two times. This is a great option for those who want to cool their vehicle on the summer heat.
The BMW key fob can also be used to begin your vehicle. This feature is a great safety precaution and prevents unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the car, the driver has to first push the lock on the key fob and then the circular arrow. For newer BMW models the feature can be used to remotely start the vehicle. This is especially useful when the driver is in a hurry for work and doesn't have time to get out of the car and open the door handle.
Additionally lastly, the BMW key fob can also be used 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 determine the preferred temperature for each individual. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to check on the battery's charging status.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. It's best to store the key fob in its protective case when not in use. If you lose the key fob, a replacement can be provided that will disable it, making it unusable for thieves. This can be accomplished by contact with the dealer or one of our technicians. You can purchase a new BMW key fob to re-establish the functionality of your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were once large black, clunky rectangles that looked kind of like an open bottle from a distance. They were basic, but they served a purpose. Then BMW started to make them more compact and added a plastic case around the key's base that made it appear more elegant and a little less like a bottle opener. The new design also trimmed the rough edges of the key which could pierce pockets or bags and made the keys easier to hold.
BMW then introduced the Display Key which puts all the functions of your car in your hand. The BMW key fob has a small LCD screen that allows you to lock and unlock your car, control the air conditioning and display vehicle information. It even lets you park remotely on hybrid models!
If you're in need of an upgrade, you can get the same functionality and features with the BMW Digital Key. Simply use your smartphone to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your car! This feature is available on 2021 and later BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is another amazing new key from BMW that lets you start your car and control some features with your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely manage your car's climate control and monitor battery levels. You can check how much fuel is left in your car if it is equipped with this feature.
The process for replacing the BMW Digital Key is the same regardless of whether you're using the traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. You'll need to bring your working key and the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will assist you with everything. 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 step is to reset the key, which erases any programming that was stored on it and render it useless. This is done by turning the key from position one and then back in rapid succession, five times in one row. Then, turn it back to zero and then take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. The fob pairs with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle and start the engine and more. You can also share the key with five other people.
The key fob connects to the vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it difficult for hackers to intercept and clone the signal. In addition the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is moving when it is being transported. The system also has an inbuilt alarm system to block unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch, which is a common target for thieves.
BMW also offers a variety of security options that are available, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob isn't in close proximity to the vehicle. This feature is available on many BMW models and provides additional security.
Many of the more advanced BMW models offer keyless access, which allows drivers to enter and start the car without having to manually push any buttons or insert an actual key. This feature can be activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob within one second. In some cases you may need to press the lock on the fob three times to activate the remote start feature on the steering wheel or dashboard.
Some people choose to carry their BMW key fob in a pouch that blocks signals, which reduces the risk of a third party broadcasting the signal that identifies the fob and allowing access to the car. Others prefer to use the standard key case which does not have this feature, but it will protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners reported that their cars were snatched by criminals who used a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signals. This kind of attack, referred to as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob in a pocket that blocks signals, or by installing an application on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery fails or you require a spare for a family member. It's affordable and easy to get a replacement BMW fob and then program it into your vehicle. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can offer you an alternative key fob. A new key fob is likely to cost between $400 and $650, based on the model 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. Then put your new key fob into the ignition, and turn it to position 1, then back check here to position 0 five times rapidly. Then, hold down the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. Once you've completed this, remove your key and turn the vehicle on. The vehicle's doors unlock and lock. This means that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you may have keys that have an actual key blade in it, or a fob that does not have one. Each key fob has its own method of synchronizing with your car, however the steps for each are nearly identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob needs to be put into the ignition to start your car.
If you own a BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process is even easier. After you have programmed the new key fob, simply connect it to the ignition of your BMW and press the start button.
While your BMW is a great way to travel around Decatur It is crucial that you keep your key fob in a good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department can help you locate a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can assist you in selecting the correct key fob and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.