What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own an BMW you are likely to find that your key fob is equipped with many functions. You can use it to do a variety of things, such as unlocking your doors, controlling your windows, and even starting the engine.
There are some tricks that you might not be aware of. Let's take a look at some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is an incredibly small piece of plastic with a number buttons embedded into its sides. Most of these buttons allow you to lock and unlock your car, but a few are unique. For instance, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on the key fob to lower all their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is a great option for those looking to cool off their car during a hot summer day.
The BMW key fob can be used to start your car. This feature is a safety measure to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver has to first turn off the lock on the key fob, and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to remotely start the vehicle. This feature is especially useful when a driver is running late to work and doesn't have time to turn the door handle.
Lastly lastly, the BMW key fob may also be utilized to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is especially useful for those traveling with multiple people since each key fob can be used to set the temperature for each individual. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to monitor the battery's charging status.
Dropping them into water is not recommended. For this reason, it's a good idea to keep the key fob in a secure case when not in use. If you lose your key fob we can offer a service that will deactivate the device, rendering it inaccessible to thieves. This can be done by contact with the dealer or one of our technicians. You can purchase a replacement BMW key fob to re-establish your car's functionality.
Design
BMW key fobs used to be large rectangular black pieces that looked a bit like an open bottle from a distance. They were basic, but they served a purpose. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it look more attractive and less like a key opener. The new design also reduced rough edges on the keys that could poke into bags or pockets and made the keys easier to hold.
BMW introduced the Display Key which puts all the functions of your car in your palm. The BMW key fob comes with small LCD screens that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, operate the air conditioning, and access the information about your vehicle. Even hybrid models have remote parking!
If you're in need of an alternative key fob, you can have the same functionality and features by using a BMW Digital Key. Just use your compatible smartphone to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is available on 2021 and later BMW vehicles that are equipped with the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is another cool new key from BMW that lets you start your vehicle and operate some features with your smartphone. The app allows you to control the climate control of your car and monitor battery levels. You can also see the amount of fuel left in your car if it has this feature.
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 assist you with the process if you bring the old and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase the 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 need to do is reset the key. This will erase all programming and render it inoperable. This is accomplished by turning the key to position one and back in quick succession, five times in a row. Then you can turn the key until it is at zero and then remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW bmw spare keys Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. The fob works with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It allows you to unlock your vehicle and start the engine. It also lets you share the key with up to five others.
The key fob is encrypted and transmits signals with the vehicle. It is therefore difficult for hackers and cloners, to intercept the signal. Additionally, the UWB technology in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even if the fob is moving while it's being transported. The system also incorporates an inbuilt alarm system to block unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.
BMW offers a variety of security options that can be added. Passive Start is one such feature that disables the starter motor when the key fob doesn't remain close to your 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 manually inserting a key or pressing any buttons. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button of the fob within one second. In certain situations, you might have to press the fob's lock 3 times in order to activate a remote start feature on the dashboard or steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW keyfob in a bag that blocks signals. This decreases the possibility of a third-party broadcasting identification code from the fob in order to gain access to the car. Others prefer to use a standard key case, which doesn't have this feature but will still protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars have been stolen by thieves who employed a signal amplifier to increase the signal that identifies. This type of attack, known as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob into a pocket that blocks signals or by using an app on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
Everyone has had this experience - the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you'll need to purchase an extra one for your family. Thankfully, getting a replacement BMW key fob and programming it to your car is simple and affordable. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can offer you the replacement key fob. A new key fob is likely to cost between $400 and $650, based on the model of BMW you drive.
Check to see if there is other ignition key in your BMW before you begin programming a new keyfob. You should also close all doors in your vehicle. Put your new key fob in the ignition, and quickly change it from position 1 to 0, and back to position 1. Next, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you have finished this, take off your key and turn the vehicle on. You should hear your vehicle's doors unlock and lock. This means that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car depending on the model of your car, you could have a key fob that has a physical key blade inside it, or a fob without one. Each fob has a different process to sync with your vehicle, but the steps for each are almost identical. The only difference is the metal key fob will need to be put into the ignition to start your car.
If you have a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is even simpler. Once you have programmed your new key fob in your BMW then, you can insert it into the ignition and press start.
It is essential to keep your BMW key fob in working in good working order. Patrick BMW's parts department can assist you find a replacement BMW fob or replacement. We can help you choose the right key fob and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.