What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob could have numerous functions. It can be used to do a variety of things, such as unlocking your doors, adjusting your windows and even starting your engine.
However, there are some hidden tricks that you might not be aware of. Here are some of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small, rectangular piece of plastic, with several buttons incorporated into its side. Most of these buttons allow you to lock and unlock your car, but a few are distinct. BMW owners, for instance can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is ideal for people who wish to cool down their vehicle on the summer heat.
The BMW key fob can also be used to begin 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 press the circular arrow. For newer BMW models it can be used to remotely start the vehicle. This is particularly helpful when the driver is late for work and doesn't have time to get out of the car to get the door handle.
The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the interior climate system. This is especially useful for people who travel with several people as each key fob is able to set the preferred temperature for each individual. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to monitor the battery's charging status.
Dropping them into water is not recommended. It is best to store the key fob in its case of protection when it is not in use. If you happen to lose the key fob, a solution can be offered to disable it, making it useless for thieves. Contacting the dealer or our technicians can do this. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob can then be purchased to restore full functionality to your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were huge black, clunky rectangles that looked a bit like an open bottle from a distance. They were simple, but functional. BMW then made them smaller and also added a plastic casing around the base to make it appear better and less like an opener for keys. This new design also minimized the rough edges of the keys that could pierce bags or pockets, and made keys more comfortable to hold.
BMW introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your hand. It allows you to lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and display vehicle information on a small LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!
If you're in need of an alternative, you can get the same great function by using the BMW Digital Key. You can use any smartphone compatible to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is only available for BMW vehicles manufactured after 2021 that use the iDrive 8 system.
Another exciting new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which allows you to start your car and use some of its features with your smartphone. The app lets you remotely control the climate control of your car, check battery levels, and more! You can even check how much gas you have left in your tank, if the car is equipped with this feature.
The process of replacing a BMW Digital Key is the same whether you're using the traditional 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 assist you with everything. You can also purchase the BMW Key Protection plan, which will pay for the cost of a replacement if keys get stolen or lost.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing you need to do is reset the key. This erases all programming and render it useless. This is done by turning the key from position one and back quickly, 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 Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. The fob works with your Apple Watch or smartphone and is compatible with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the car and then start the engine. You can also share the key with five others.
The key fob communicates with the vehicle via read more encrypted signals. This makes it impossible for hackers to intercept and replicate the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents relay attacks even if it is in motion. The system also has a built-in alarm to prevent unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch which is a frequent target for thieves.
BMW also offers a range of optional security features, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob isn't in close proximity to the car. This feature is offered in many of the brand's models and offers security.
BMW's more sophisticated models include keyless entry that allows users to start their vehicle without having manually insert a key or push any buttons. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob within one second. In certain situations, you may need to press the button to lock the fob three times to then switch on the remote start feature in the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW key fob in a pouch that blocks signals that reduces the chance of a third party broadcasting the signal that identifies the fob and using it to gain access to the car. Some people prefer to use an ordinary case that does not come with the feature, but it still protects the fob against scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars have been taken by criminals who simply used a signal amplifier to increase the signal that identifies. This kind of attack, also known as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob into a pocket that blocks signals, or by installing an app on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
It happens to everyone It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you require an extra battery for your family member. It's simple and inexpensive to purchase a new BMW fob, and then program it into your vehicle. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can sell you the replacement key fob. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650 based 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 all doors inside your vehicle. After that you'll need to insert your new key fob in the ignition, and switch it to position 1, then back to position 0 five times quickly. Hold down the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. Once you've completed this, take off your key and turn your car on. The vehicle's doors unlock and lock. This means that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you may either have a key blade in your key fob, or that isn't. The process for syncing new fobs with your car differs for each however the steps are almost identical. The only difference is that a key fob with a metal key inside will need to be placed in the ignition whenever you wish to start the car.
If you have an BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even easier. Once you have programmed your new key fob into your BMW then, you can insert it into the ignition and press start.
It is important to ensure that your BMW key fob in working order. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you locate a new BMW fob or replacement. We can assist you in selecting the correct key fob and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.