What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob could have numerous functions. You can use it for a variety of purposes, including unlocking your doors, adjusting 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 useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic, with several buttons incorporated into its side. The majority of these buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, and certain buttons have additional functions. For example, BMW owners can activate an invisible function on their key fob to lower all of their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button twice. This is a great option for those who wish to cool down their vehicle during a hot summer's day.
Another important function of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This feature is a great safety precaution and prevents unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the car, the driver must first push the lock on the fob of the key and then the circular arrow. For newer BMW models it can be used to remotely start the vehicle. This feature is especially beneficial when a driver is late to work and doesn't have time to turn the door.
The BMW key fob can also be used for controlling the internal climate system. This is particularly useful for those who travel with multiple people, since it is possible to set each person's preferred temperature with their own key fob. If you own a hybrid BMW key fob can be used to check the charging status of the vehicle's battery.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. For this reason, it's best to keep the key fob in a secure case when not in use. If you happen to lose the key fob, a service can be provided that will disable it, making it unusable for thieves. This can be accomplished by contacting the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob could be purchased to restore functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were big black, clunky rectangles that looked kind of like an opener for bottles from a distance. They were simple, but useful. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it appear better and less like a key opener. This new design also minimized the rough edges of keys that could pierce bags or pockets and made keys easier to hold.
BMW introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your hand. The BMW key fob comes with an LCD screen that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, control the air conditioning and display the vehicle's information. Even hybrid models come with remote parking!
BMW Digital Keys are a fantastic replacement option if you have to replace the BMW key fob. You can use any smartphone compatible to replace the BMW key fob and unlock your car! This feature is available on 2021 or more recent BMW vehicles that are equipped with the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another exciting new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that lets you start your car and control certain features using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely manage your car's climate control and check battery levels and much more! You can see how much fuel is left in your car if it is equipped with this feature.
The procedure for replacing a BMW Digital Key is the same regardless of whether you're using an old-fashioned key or a BMW Digital Key. You'll have to bring your original key and the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will assist you with everything. You can also purchase the BMW Key Protection Plan, which covers the cost of replacement if your 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 render it inoperable. This is done five times by rapidly turning the key from one position to zero and back. Then, turn it to position zero and take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a easy way to start your vehicle. The fob works with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle and start the engine and much more. It also lets you share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob is encrypted and transmits 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 attacks on relays even if the device is in motion. The system utilizes an alarm to block unauthorised starting and disables the ignition switch.
BMW also provides a variety of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob is not within close proximity to the car. This feature is available in all models of the brand and gives you security.
A lot of the more sophisticated BMW models come with keyless access that allows drivers to enter and start the vehicle without having to manually press any buttons or insert the physical key. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob in just one second. In some instances, you may have to press the lock on the fob three times to activate a remote start feature on the dashboard or steering wheel.
Some people keep their BMW keyfob in a pouch that blocks signals. This reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting the unique code that is on the fob in order to gain access to the vehicle. Some prefer a standard key case, that does not come with this feature, but it will protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their vehicles have been stolen by thieves who utilized a signal amplifier in order to increase the signal that identifies. This kind of attack is known as "Relay Attack" and can be avoided by keeping the key fob in a signal blocking pocket or by using a signal blocker app on your smartphone.
Replacement
Everyone has had this experience - the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you'll need to purchase another one for your family. It's easy and affordable to purchase a new BMW fob, and program it into your car. You can purchase an alternative from any dealer or locksmith that is authorized by BMW. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650 based on the type BMW you drive.
Make sure that there isn't other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming a new keyfob. You should also close all doors inside your vehicle. Put your new key fob in the ignition, then quickly change it from position 1 to 0, and then back to position 1. Hold down the unlock button, then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you have finished this, remove your key and turn your car on. The doors will unlock and lock, which indicates that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the car model depending on the model of your car, you could have keys click here that have a key blade that is physically inside it, or a fob that does not have one. The procedure for syncing new fobs to your car differs for each however the steps are nearly identical. 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 wish to start the car.
If you own a BMW with Comfort Access the process is even simpler. After you have programmed a new key fob, simply insert it into the ignition of your car and press the start button.
While your BMW is a great way to travel around Decatur however, it is vital that you keep your key fob in good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you locate a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you select the right key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.