What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob could have numerous functions. It can be used for many things, including unlocking your doors, adjusting your windows as well as starting the engine.
However, there are some secret techniques that you may not be aware of. Let's take a look at some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangle of plastic that has a number buttons embedded into its side. Most of these buttons are used to lock and unlock 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 their windows at once by pressing the unlock button two times. This is a great option for those who wish to cool off their car on a hot summer day.
The BMW key fob can also be used to begin your car. This is a security measure to ensure that no one is able to gain access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver must first push the lock on the fob of the key and then press the circular arrow. For newer BMW models it can be used to remotely start the vehicle. This is particularly useful in situations where the driver is in a hurry for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car to open the door handle.
The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the interior climate system. This is especially convenient for those who travel with several individuals, as it's possible to set each person's preferred temperature using their own key fob. For those who have a hybrid BMW key fob, it can be used to monitor the status of charging the battery in the vehicle.
While the standard BMW key fobs can withstand normal levels of water, dropping them into water can cause significant damage. It's best to keep the key fob in a protective case when not in use. If you happen to lose the key fob, a solution can be offered to disable it, rendering it unusable for thieves. Contacting the dealer or one of our technicians can do this. You can purchase a new BMW key fob to restore your car's functionality.
Design
BMW key fobs were huge, clunky rectangular shapes in black that, from a distance, appeared like a bottle-opener. They were simple, but functional. Then BMW began to make them a little smaller and also added a case made of plastic around the key's base that made it look nicer and less like an opener for bottles. This new design also reduced the rough edges of keys that could poke through pockets or bags and made keys more comfortable to hold.
BMW introduced the Display Key which puts all the functions of your car in your hands. The BMW key fob has a small LCD screen that allows you to lock and unlock your car, control the air conditioning, and access the vehicle's information. It even lets you park remotely on hybrid models!
If you're in need of an alternative key fob, you can have the same great functionality with the BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your car using your smartphone provided you have an appropriate model. This feature is only available for BMW vehicles made after 2021 using the iDrive 8 system.
The Connected Remote key is a innovative key from BMW that allows you to start your car and control certain features using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control your car's climate control as well as check the battery level and much more! You can check how much fuel remains 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 help you with the process when you bring both the old and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also choose to purchase an BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the cost of a replacement in the event that 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 erases all programming and render it inoperable. This is done by turning the key to position one and then back in quick succession five times in the same row. Then, turn the key to zero and then remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a easy method to start your car. The fob works with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the car and then start the engine. It also allows you to share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob communicates encrypted signals to the vehicle. It is therefore extremely difficult for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents relay attacks even if it is moving. The system uses an alarm to stop unauthorised starting more info and disables ignition switch.
BMW also offers a variety of security options that are available, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob is not in close proximity to the car. This feature is offered in many of the brand's models and provides additional security.
BMW's more advanced models feature keyless entry, which allows users to start their vehicle without having manually insert a key or push any buttons. This feature can be activated by pressing three times on the lock button of the fob within one second. In some cases it is possible to press the button to lock the fob three times and then switch on a separate 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 unique code that is on the fob in order to gain access to the vehicle. 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 reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals who used an amplifier for signal strength to boost the identifying signals. This kind of attack is referred to as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping your key fob in a signal-blocking pocket or by using an app that blocks signals on your phone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you need an extra battery for your family member. Luckily, purchasing a replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your car is easy and affordable. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths can sell you the replacement key fob. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650, based on the type of BMW you drive.
Make sure that there isn't other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming a new keyfob. Close all the doors of your vehicle. Next, insert your new key fob into the ignition, and switch it to position 1 before turning return to position 0 five times in rapid succession. Next, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. Once you've completed this, take off your key and turn the car on. The doors will unlock and lock, which indicates that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the car model, you may have keys that have a physical key blade inside it, or a key fob without one. The process of synchronizing new fobs with your car differs for each however the steps are similar. The only difference is that a key fob that has a metal key in it will need to be inserted into the ignition when you want to start the car.
If you have an BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even simpler. Once you have programmed your new key fob in your BMW, insert it in the ignition and press start.
It is essential to maintain your BMW key fob in good order. If you're looking for an updated BMW key fob or replacement one, you can reach the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you select the right key fob and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.