What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob is likely to 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 have heard of. Here are some of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob consists of an incredibly small piece of plastic with several buttons incorporated in its side. Most of them allow you to lock and unlock your car however, a few are distinct. BMW owners, for instance can activate a hidden function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is perfect for those who wish to cool down their car on a hot summer day.
The BMW key fob can also be used to begin your vehicle. This feature is a safety measure to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver has to press the lock button on the key fob and then press the circular arrow. For newer BMW models, this feature can also be used to remotely start the car. This is especially useful when the driver is late for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car to open the door.
The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the interior climate system. This is particularly helpful for people who travel with multiple people, since it is possible to set each person's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to check the battery's charge status.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. It's best to store the key fob in its case that is protected when it is not in use. If you do lose the key fob, a replacement is available to disable it, rendering it useless for thieves. Contacting our dealer or technicians will do this. You can buy a replacement BMW key fob to restore your car's functionality.
Design
BMW key fobs were once huge, clunky rectangular shapes in black that from a distance looked like a bottle opener. They were simple, but functional. Then BMW began to make them more compact and added an aluminum case around the base of the key, which made it appear more elegant and less like the bottle opener. The new design also trimmed the rough edges of the keys which could puncture bags or pockets, and made the keys easier to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the functions of your vehicle in your hand. It lets you 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!
BMW Digital Keys are a fantastic replacement option if you have to replace your BMW key fob. Simply use your smartphone to replace the BMW key fob and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is only available on BMW vehicles manufactured after 2021 using the iDrive 8 system.
Another cool new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that allows you to start your vehicle 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 more! You can also see the amount of fuel left in your car if it has this feature.
No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process for getting a replacement is similar. You'll have to bring the original key along with the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will help you with everything. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover the cost of replacement when keys are 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 erases all programming and render it unusable. This is accomplished five times by quickly shifting the key from position one to position zero and back. Then, you turn it back to zero and then take off the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a efficient method to start your vehicle. The fob pairs with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle, start the engine, and more. It also allows you to share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob communicates with the vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it difficult for hackers to steal and replicate the signal. Additionally, the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is moving while it's being transported. The system also incorporates a built-in alarm to prevent unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch, which is a common target for thieves.
BMW offers a variety of security features that are available as an option. Passive Start is one feature that disables the starter motor if the key fob does not remain close to your vehicle. This feature is available on many BMW models and offers additional peace of mind.
A number of the more advanced BMW models have keyless access, which lets drivers enter and start the vehicle without having to manually use any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature can be activated by pressing three times on the lock button of the fob in just one second. In some cases you may 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 reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting unique code that is on the fob to gain access to the vehicle. Some people prefer to use a standard case that doesn't have this feature, but it website does protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars have been taken by thieves who used a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signal. This kind of attack is known as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping the key fob in a signal-blocking pocket or by installing an app that blocks signals on your smartphone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you require an extra battery for someone in your family. It's easy and affordable to purchase a new BMW fob and then program it into your car. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths can sell you an alternative key fob. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650, depending on the type BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob for your BMW first, ensure that there is no other key in the ignition. Close all doors of your vehicle. Next, insert the new key fob into the ignition, and switch it to position 1 and back to position 0 five times in rapid succession. Hold down the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you have finished this, remove your key and turn your car on. The vehicle's doors lock and unlock. This indicates that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Depending on your car model depending on the model of your car, you could have an ignition key fob with a key blade that is physically inside it, or a key fob that does not have one. Each one has a distinct process for synchronizing with your car, however the steps for each are almost identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob has to be inserted in the ignition to begin your car.
If you have a BMW with Comfort Access the process is much simpler. Once you have programmed your new key fob to your BMW and inserted it into the ignition and press start.
While your BMW is a fantastic way to get around Decatur, it is important that you keep your key fob in a good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you find a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can assist you in finding the right key fob for your vehicle, and we can even upgrade your BMW with an upgrade to Comfort Access to enable keyless entry as well as engine starting.