What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob is likely to have numerous functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, operate your windows and even start the engine.
There are a few tricks you may not be aware of. Here are some of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob consists of an incredibly small piece of plastic with several buttons incorporated into its side. Most of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, but a few have more unique functions. For example, BMW owners can activate an in-built function on the key fob to lower all of their windows at once by pressing the unlock button twice. This is ideal for people who wish to cool down their vehicle on the summer heat.
Another important function of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This is a wonderful security precaution that prevents unauthorised entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver must press the lock button on the key fob and then the circular arrow. For newer BMW models, this feature can also be used to remotely start the vehicle. This feature is particularly useful when a driver is late for work and doesn't have time to turn the door.
The BMW key fob also has the capability of controlling the interior climate system. This is particularly convenient for those who travel with multiple people as each key fob is able to determine the preferred temperature for each individual. If you own hybrid BMW key fob can be used to monitor the charging status of the battery of the vehicle.
While standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of moisture, dropping them in water can cause serious damage. It's best to store the key fob in its protective case when it is not in use. If you have lost your key fob, we can offer a service that will disable the device, rendering it inaccessible to thieves. This can be accomplished by contacting the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob could be purchased to restore functionality to your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were huge, clunky rectangular shapes in black that, from a distance, appeared like a bottle opener. They were basic, but they served a purpose. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it appear more appealing and less like a key opener. This new design also minimized the rough key edges that could pierce bags or pockets and made keys more comfortable to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the features of your car in your hand. It allows you to lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and view the vehicle's information on a small touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. It even lets you park remotely on hybrid models!
BMW Digital Keys are a great alternative if you want to replace your BMW key fob. You can unlock your car using your smartphone if you have a compatible model. This feature is available for 2021 or more recent BMW cars that use the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is another innovative key from BMW that lets you start your car and use certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control the climate control of your car and check battery levels and more! You can see the amount of fuel left in your car, if it's equipped with this feature.
The process for replacing the BMW Digital Key is the same regardless of whether you're using an old-fashioned key or a BMW Digital Key. You'll need to bring your working 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 the costs of a replacement if keys get lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first step is to reset the key, which will erase any programming it has and make it unusable. This is done five times by quickly shifting the key from position one to zero and back. Then, turn the key to position zero and then remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a efficient way to start your vehicle. The fob works with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle, start the engine, and much more. You can also share the key with five people.
The key fob is encrypted and transmits signals with the vehicle. It is therefore impossible for hackers and cloners, to intercept the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even if the device is in motion. The system uses an alarm to stop unauthorised starting and disables the ignition switch.
BMW offers a range of security options that can be added. Passive Start is one such feature that will disable the starter motor if the key fob doesn't remain in close proximity to your vehicle. This feature is offered in all models of the brand and gives you peace of mind.
A lot of the more sophisticated BMW models have keyless access that allows drivers to enter and start the vehicle without having manually use any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature is typically activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times within one second. In some cases it may be necessary to press the lock button on the fob three times and then switch on the remote start feature within the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people choose to carry their BMW key fob in a pouch with a signal blocker that reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting the identifying signal from the fob and using it to access the car. Some people prefer to use a standard case, which doesn't have this feature, but it still protects the fob against scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars were stolen by criminals using a signal amplifier to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This type of attack, also known as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob into a pocket that blocks signals or by using an application on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
Everybody has experienced this: the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you have to purchase an extra one for your family. Fortunately, finding a replacement BMW key fob and programming it to your car is easy and inexpensive. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths can sell you an alternative key fob. A new key fob will typically cost between $400 and $650, depending on the model of BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob to your BMW first, make sure that there isn't another key in the ignition. Close all doors in your vehicle. Place your new key fob in the ignition, and quickly turn it from position 1 to 0, and then back again. Then, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. Once you've completed this, remove your key and turn the vehicle on. The vehicle's doors lock and unlock. This means that the new here key fob has been successfully programmed.
Depending on your car model, you may have keys that have a key blade that is physically inside it, or a key fob that does not have one. The process of synchronizing new fobs to your car differs for each however the steps are similar. The only difference is the metal key fob needs to be inserted into the ignition to start your car.
If you own a BMW with Comfort Access the process is much simpler. Once you have programmed your new key fob to your BMW then, you can insert it into the ignition and press start.
While your BMW is a fantastic way to get around Decatur however, it is vital to keep your key fob in a good condition. If you are looking for a new BMW key fob or replacement for your existing one, contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you choose the correct key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.