What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob could have numerous functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, manage your windows, and even start your engine.
However, there are some hidden tricks that you might not be aware of. Let's take a look some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic that has many buttons incorporated in its side. The majority of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, and a few have more unique functions. BMW owners, for example can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for those who want to cool off their car on a hot summer day.
Another important purpose of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This feature is a safety measure to ensure that no one is able to gain access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver has to first turn off the lock on the key fob, and then press the circular arrow. For newer BMW models the feature can be used to remotely start the vehicle. This is particularly helpful in a situation where the driver is in a hurry for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car to open the door handle.
Lastly lastly, the BMW key fob may 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 can be used to determine the preferred temperature of each person. If you own a hybrid BMW key fob can be used to check the charging status of the battery in the vehicle.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. This is why it's a good idea to keep the key fob in a protective case when not in use. If you do lose the key fob, a service can be offered to deactivate it, making it useless for thieves. This can be accomplished by contact with the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob can be purchased to restore functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were once big, clunky rectangles in black that, from a distance, appeared like a bottle-opener. They were basic, but useful. Then BMW started to make them more compact and added an aluminum case around the key's base that made it appear more elegant and less resemble an opener for bottles. The new design also trimmed the rough edges of the key which could pierce pockets or bags and made the keys more comfortable to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the functions of your vehicle in your hand. The BMW key fob features a small LCD screen that lets you lock and unlock your car, control the air conditioning and display vehicle information. It even offers remote parking on hybrid models!
If you're in need of a replacement, you can get the same functionality and features by using a BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your car using your smartphone when you own an appropriate model. This feature is only available to BMW vehicles made after 2021 with the iDrive 8 system.
The Connected Remote key is a innovative key from BMW that lets you start your vehicle and operate some features with your smartphone. The app lets you remotely manage your car's climate control as well as check the battery level and more! You can even check how much gas you have left in your tank, should your car be equipped with that feature.
The procedure for replacing a BMW Digital Key is the same whether you're using the traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. Our experts will assist you in the process if you bring your old key and the new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase an BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the costs of a replacement if 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 erases any programming that was stored on it and render it inoperable. This is accomplished five times, by shifting the key from one position to zero and back. Then, turn the key until it is at zero and then remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a easy way 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 others.
The key fob communicates encrypted signals to the vehicle. This makes it difficult for hackers to intercept and replicate the signal. In addition, the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is in motion while it's being carried. The system also incorporates a built-in alarm to prevent non-authorized starts and disables ignition switch, which is a common target for thieves.
BMW offers a range of optional security features. Passive Start is one feature that disables the starter motor if the key fob does not remain within close proximity to your car. This feature is available on a variety of BMW models and can provide additional security.
BMW's most advanced models come with keyless entry that allows users to 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 in a single second. In some instances it is possible to press the button to lock 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 a standard key case, which does not bmw key replacement have this feature, but can protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners reported that their cars were snatched by criminals using an amplifier for signal strength to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This type of attack is known as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping your key fob in a signal-blocking pocket or by installing a signal blocker app on your phone.
Replacement
Everyone has had this experience - the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you need to buy a spare one for a family. Fortunately, finding a replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and affordable. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can offer you an alternative key fob. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650, based on the kind of BMW you drive.
Make sure that there isn't 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, then quickly move 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 the key and switch on the vehicle. You should hear your car's doors unlock and lock. This means that the new key fob was successfully programmed.
Based on the car model depending on the model of your car, you could have an ignition key fob with a key blade that is physically inside it, or a key fob that doesn't have one. Each fob has a different process to sync with your car, however the steps for each are identical. The only difference is the metal key fob has to be put in the ignition to begin your car.
If you own a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is much simpler. After you've programmed a new key fob, simply connect it to your BMW's ignition and press the start button.
It is essential to keep your BMW key fob in working in good working order. Patrick BMW's parts department can help you locate a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you find the right key fob for your car and can upgrade your BMW with the Comfort Access upgrade to enable keyless entry and engine starting.