What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob could have many functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, control your windows and even start the engine.
There are some tricks that you might not be aware of. Let's take a look some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob consists of an incredibly small piece of plastic with a number buttons embedded in its side. The majority of these buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, but certain buttons have additional functions. For example, BMW owners can activate an in-built function on their key fob to lower all their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button two times. This is a great option for those who want to cool their car during the summer heat.
The BMW key fob can also be used to start your vehicle. This feature is a safety measure that prevents 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 feature is particularly beneficial when a driver is late to work and does not have time to turn the door.
Finally lastly, the BMW key fob can also be utilized to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is particularly convenient for people who travel with several individuals as each key fob is able to set the temperature for each individual. If you have hybrid BMW key fob can be used to monitor the state of charge of the vehicle's battery.
While standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of humidity, dropping them into water can cause serious damage. It is recommended to keep the key fob in its case that is protected when not in use. If you lose your key fob we can offer a service which will deactivate the device, making it useless to thieves. Contacting our dealer or technicians can do this. You can purchase a new BMW key fob to restore the functionality of your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were huge, clunky rectangular shapes in black that, from a distance, appeared like a bottle opener. They were simple, but functional. Then BMW started to make them a little smaller and put a plastic case around the key's base that made it look nicer and a little less like an opener for bottles. The new design also reduced rough edges on the key that could poke into bags or pockets, and made the keys easier to hold.
BMW then introduced the Display Key which puts all the features of your vehicle 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 the vehicle's information. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!
If you're in need of an upgrade, you can get the same functionality and features by using the BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your car using your smartphone when you own a compatible model. This feature is available on 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 that allows you to start your vehicle and use certain features using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control the climate control of your car and check the battery level. You can check how much fuel is left in your car, if it's equipped with this feature.
The process of replacing a BMW Digital Key is the same regardless of whether you're using an old-fashioned key or a BMW Digital Key. Our technicians will assist you with the process when you bring both your old key and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase an BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover the cost of replacement if your keys get 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 done by turning the key to position one, then back in quick succession five times in one row. Then, turn the key until it is at zero and take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. The fob is compatible with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle and start the engine and much more. You website can also share the key with five other people.
The key fob transmits encrypted signals to the vehicle. This makes it impossible for hackers to intercept and clone the signal. In addition to this, the UWB technology used in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even when the fob is moving when it is being transported. The system uses an alarm to prevent unauthorized starting and disables ignition switch.
BMW offers a variety of security options that can be added. Passive Start is one feature that disables the starter motor if the key fob doesn't remain in close proximity to your car. This feature is available on all models of the brand and offers security.
BMW's more advanced models feature keyless entry, which lets drivers to access their vehicle without having manually insert a key or press any buttons. This feature is typically activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times in a single second. In some instances, you may need to press the lock button on the fob three times, and then switch on a separate remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW key fob in a signal-blocking pouch which minimizes the possibility of a third-party broadcasting the identification signal from the fob and using it to gain access to the car. Some prefer the standard key case which does not have this feature, but it will protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals who used a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signals. This kind of attack is known as "Relay Attack" and can be avoided by keeping the key fob in a signal blocking pocket or by installing an app that blocks signals on your smartphone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery dies, or you need an extra battery for a family member. Luckily, purchasing the replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and inexpensive. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can sell you an alternative key fob. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650, depending on the model of BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob to your BMW, first make sure that there isn't another key in the ignition. Close all doors of your vehicle. Place your new key fob into the ignition, and quickly move it from position 1 to position 0, and then back again. Hold down the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, remove the key and switch on the vehicle. The doors should unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you may have a key fob that has an actual key blade in it, or a key fob without one. Each one has a distinct process to sync with your car, but the steps for each are identical. The only difference is the metal key fob will need to be inserted in the ignition to start your car.
If you own a BMW with Comfort Access the process is even simpler. After you have programmed a 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 get around Decatur however, it is vital that you keep your key fob in a good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you locate a new BMW fob or replacement. We can help you locate the right key fob to your vehicle and even upgrade your BMW with the Comfort Access upgrade to enable keyless entry as well as engine starting.