What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob could have many functions. It can be used to do a variety of things, such as unlocking your doors, controlling your windows as well as starting the engine.
There are some tricks that you may not be aware of. Let's take a look some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob consists of a small rectangle of plastic that has many buttons incorporated into its sides. The majority of these buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, but certain buttons have additional functions. BMW owners, for example can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is ideal for those who want to cool their vehicle during the summer heat.
The BMW key fob can also be used to begin your car. This feature is a safety measure that prevents unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver must first press the lock on the key fob and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to remotely start the car. This feature is particularly useful when the driver is late for work and doesn't have time to turn the door handle.
The BMW key fob can also be used for controlling the interior climate system. This is especially convenient 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 charging status.
While the standard BMW key fobs can handle normal levels of water, dropping them into water can cause severe damage. It is recommended to keep the key fob in its case that is protected when not in use. If you lose the key fob, a service can be offered to disable it, rendering it useless for thieves. This can be accomplished by contact with the dealer or one of our technicians. You can purchase a replacement BMW key fob to repair your car's functionality.
Design
BMW key fobs were big, clunky rectangles in black that from a distance looked like a bottle-opener. They were basic, but useful. Then BMW began to make them smaller and put 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 reduced rough edges on the keys which could pierce bags or pockets, and made the keys easier for you to hold.
BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your hand. The BMW key fob comes with a small LCD screen that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, operate the air conditioning and view the vehicle's information. It even offers remote parking on hybrid models!
If you're in need of an upgrade for your BMW Digital Key, you can enjoy the same functionality and features by using the BMW Digital Key. Simply use your smartphone to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your car! This feature is only available to BMW vehicles made after 2021 with the iDrive 8 system.
Another new and exciting key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which allows you to start your vehicle and operate some of its features with your smartphone. The app lets you remotely control your car's climate control and check battery levels and much more! You can also see how much gas is left in your tank, should your car be get more info equipped with that feature.
No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting a replacement is similar. Our technicians will assist you with the process when you bring both the old and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase an BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the costs of a replacement if keys get stolen or lost.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing to do is reset the key. This will erase all programming and render it unusable. This is done by turning the key to position one and back quickly five times in one row. Then, turn it to position zero and take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. The fob works with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle or start the engine and more. It also allows you to share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob communicates with vehicle via encrypted signals. It is therefore impossible for hackers and cloners, to intercept the signal. Additionally the UWB technology in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even when the fob is in motion while it's being transported. The system uses an alarm to block unauthorised starting and disables ignition switch.
BMW also provides a variety of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob isn't within close proximity to the car. This feature is available on several models from the brand and offers security.
BMW's more advanced models feature keyless entry, which allows drivers to access their vehicle without having to manually inserting a key or pressing any buttons. This feature is usually activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times in the span of a second. In certain situations it may be necessary to press the lock button on the fob three times, and then switch on an additional remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW key fob in a signal-blocking pouch, which reduces the risk of a third party broadcasting the signal that identifies the fob and using it to access the car. Some prefer using an ordinary case that does not come with the feature, but still protects the fob against scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars have been taken by criminals who just used a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signal. This kind of attack, known as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob into pockets that block signals, or by installing an app on your phone to block signals.
Replacement
Everybody has experienced this: the battery in your BMW key fob fails or you need to buy a spare one for a family. It's affordable and easy to get a replacement BMW fob, and program it into your vehicle. You can purchase the replacement from any dealership or locksmith that is authorized by BMW. A new key fob costs between $400 and $650 depending on the kind 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. Also, close the doors of your vehicle. Put your new key fob in the ignition, and quickly change it from position 1 to 0, and back to position 1. Hold the unlock button and quickly press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. Once you have completed this, remove the key and turn on the car. The doors should unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Depending on your car model depending on the model of your car, you could have a key fob that has a key blade that is physically inside it, or a fob that doesn't have one. The procedure for syncing new fobs to your car is different for each, but the steps are similar. The only difference is that the fob with a metal key inside will need to be placed in the ignition whenever you are ready to start your car.
If you have an BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process is even simpler. After you've programmed the new key fob, simply insert it into your BMW's ignition and press the start button.
It is crucial to ensure that your BMW key fob in working in good working order. Patrick BMW's parts department can help you find a replacement BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you select the best key fob for your needs and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.