What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have a BMW you are likely to find that your key fob has numerous functions. You can use it to do a variety of things, such as unlocking your doors, controlling your windows as well as starting the engine.
There are a few hidden tricks that you might not know about. Let's take a look some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a tiny, rectangular piece of plastic that has several buttons incorporated into its side. The majority of these buttons allow you to lock and unlock your car however, a few are unique. BMW owners, for example, can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for people who want to cool their vehicle during the scorching summer days.
Another major benefit of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the vehicle. This is a security measure to prevent 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 remotely start the car. This feature is particularly useful when a driver is running late to work and does not have time to turn the door handle.
The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the interior climate system. This is particularly convenient for those who travel with multiple people as each key fob is able to set the preferred temperature for each person. For those who have hybrid BMW, the key fob can be used to check the state of charge of the battery in the vehicle.
Dropping them into water is not recommended. It is best to store the key fob inside its protective case when not in use. If you happen to lose the key fob, a replacement can be offered to disable it, rendering it inaccessible to thieves. This can be done by contacting the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob can then be purchased to restore full functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were huge, clunky rectangular shapes in black that from a distance looked like a bottle-opener. They were basic, but they served a purpose. Then BMW started to make them smaller and put a plastic case around the base of the key that made it look nicer and less resemble the bottle opener. This new design also reduced the rough edges of the keys that could poke through bags or pockets, and made the keys easier to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the features of your car in the palm of your hand. It lets you lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and display vehicle information on a small LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models can have remote parking!
BMW Digital Keys are a fantastic replacement option if you have to replace the BMW key fob. You can unlock your vehicle using your smartphone provided you have a compatible model. This feature is available for 2021 or more recent 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 car and control some of its features with your smartphone. The app allows you to control the climate control of your car and check the battery level. You can check the amount of fuel left in your car, if it's equipped with this feature.
The process of replacing the BMW Digital Key is the same whether you're using a traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. You'll have to bring your original key along with the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will help you with everything. You can also purchase the BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover replacement costs in the event that 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 it has and render it useless. This is accomplished by turning the key from position one and then back in rapid succession five times in one row. Then you can turn the key until it is at zero and then remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. The fob works with your Apple Watch or smartphone and is compatible with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the vehicle and also start the engine. It also allows you to share the key with up to five others.
The key fob connects to the vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it difficult for hackers to steal and replicate the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents relay attacks even if it is moving. The system employs an alarm to prevent unauthorized starting and disables ignition switch.
BMW also offers a range of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob isn't within close proximity to the vehicle. This feature is available on a variety of BMW models and can provide an additional level of security.
A lot of the more sophisticated BMW models come with keyless access which lets drivers enter and start the vehicle without having to manually use any buttons or insert an actual key. This feature is typically activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times in a single second. In some cases it may be necessary to press the button to lock the fob three times, and then turn on a separate remote start feature within the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people prefer to carry their BMW key fob in a signal-blocking pouch that reduces the chance of a third party broadcasting the identification signal from the fob and using it to gain access to the car. Some people prefer to use an ordinary case that doesn't have this feature, but it still protects the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars were stolen by thieves who employed a signal amplifier to increase the signal that identifies. This kind of attack is known as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping your key fob in a signal-blocking pocket or by using a signal blocker app on your phone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you require a spare for a family member. Thankfully, getting a replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and affordable. You can purchase an alternative from any dealer or locksmith that is authorized by BMW. A new key fob will typically cost between $400 and $650, based on the kind of BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob to your BMW first, ensure that there is no other key in the ignition. Close all doors of your vehicle. Insert your new key fob into the ignition, then quickly turn it from position 1 to 0, and back to position 1. Hold down the unlock button and quickly press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you have finished this, remove your key and turn the car on. The doors will unlock and lock, which indicates that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Depending on your car model You may have an ignition key fob with an actual key blade in it, or a key fob without one. Each fob has a different process to sync with your car, but the steps for each are identical. The only difference is that the key fob that has a metal key inside will need to be put into the ignition when you want to start the car.
If you have a BMW with Comfort Access the process is even easier. Once you have programmed your new key fob into your BMW, insert it in the ignition and press start.
While your BMW is a fantastic way to travel around Decatur, it is important that you keep your more info key fob in a good condition. If you're in search of an entirely new BMW key fob or replacement for your existing one, contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can assist you in selecting the correct key fob and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.