What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob probably has many functions. It can be used for a variety of purposes, including unlocking your doors, controlling your windows and even starting your engine.
But there are some secret techniques that you may not have heard of. Let's take a look at 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. The majority of these buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, but some have additional functions. BMW owners, for instance can activate a hidden function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is a great option for those who wish to cool off their car on a hot summer day.
Another important benefit of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This is a wonderful safety precaution and prevents unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the vehicle, the driver needs to first press the lock on the key fob, and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to start the vehicle remotely. This feature is especially useful when a driver is late to work and does not have the time to pull the door.
Finally lastly, the BMW key fob can also be utilized to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is especially convenient for those who travel with multiple people, as it is possible to set each individual's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. If you own a hybrid BMW key fob, it can be used to check the status of charging the battery in the vehicle.
While standard BMW key fobs can handle normal levels of humidity, dropping them into water can cause severe damage. It is recommended to keep the key fob in its case of protection when it is not in use. If you do lose the key fob, a service can be offered to disable it, rendering it unusable for thieves. This can be done by contacting the dealer or one of our technicians. You can buy a replacement 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 opener for bottles from a distance. They were basic, but useful. Then BMW started to make them a little smaller and put an aluminum case around the base of the key that made it look more attractive and a little less like a bottle opener. This new design also minimized the rough edges of keys that could poke through 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 features an LCD screen that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, operate the air conditioning and view the information about your vehicle. Even hybrid models have remote parking!
If you're in need of a replacement key fob, you can have the same great functionality by using a BMW Digital Key. You can use any smartphone compatible to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is available for 2021 or later BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another cool new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that lets you start your car and use certain features using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely control the climate control of your car and check battery levels and much more! You can also see how you've got gas left in your tank, should your car be equipped with that feature.
No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting an replacement is the same. Our technicians will help you in the process if you bring both your old key and the new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover replacement costs 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 will erase all programming and render it unusable. This is done five times, by turning the key from one position to zero and back. Then switch the key to zero and take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. It is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and is compatible with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the vehicle and then start the engine. It also lets you share the key with up to five others.
The key fob transmits encrypted signals with the vehicle. It is therefore extremely difficult for hackers and cloners to get the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents relay attacks even if it is in motion. The system also uses an inbuilt alarm system to block unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch which is a frequent target for thieves.
BMW offers a variety of optional security features. Passive Start is one of them. It will disable the starter motor if the key fob does not remain close to your car. This feature is offered in all models of the brand and offers security.
BMW's more sophisticated models include keyless entry that allows drivers to access their car without having to manually inserting a key or pressing any buttons. This feature can be activated by pressing three times on the lock button of the fob in a single second. In certain situations, you may need to press the lock button on the fob three times, and then turn on an additional remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW keyfob in a pouch that blocks signals. This reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting the identification code from the fob to gain access to the vehicle. Some prefer a standard key case, that does not come with this feature, but it will protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars were stolen by criminals who just utilized a signal amplifier in order to increase the signal that identifies. This type of attack is referred to as "Relay Attack" and can be avoided by keeping the key fob in a signal blocking pocket or by using a signal blocker app on your phone.
Replacement
Everyone has experienced this - the battery in your BMW key fob goes out or you'll need to purchase another one for your family. It's easy and affordable to get a replacement BMW fob, and then program it into your vehicle. You can buy a replacement from any dealership or locksmith authorized by BMW. A new key fob costs between $400 and $650, depending 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. It is also recommended to shut the doors of your vehicle. After that put the new key fob into the ignition and turn it to position 1, then back to position check here 0 five times rapidly. Hold down the unlock button and quickly press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, take off the key and switch on the car. The doors should lock and unlock, indicating that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you may either have a key blade in your key fob or one that isn't. Each fob has a different process to sync with your car, but the steps for each are almost identical. The only difference is that the fob that has a metallic key in it needs to be placed in the ignition whenever you want to start the car.
If you have a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is much simpler. After you have programmed a new key fob, simply connect it to the ignition of your car and press the start button.
While your BMW is a great way to get around Decatur, it is important that you keep your key fob in good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you locate a new BMW fob or replacement. We can help you choose the correct key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.