What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have a BMW you are likely to find that your key fob comes with numerous functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, operate your windows and even start the engine.
There are some tricks you might not know about. Let's take a look some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangle of plastic that has many buttons incorporated in its side. Most of these buttons unlock and lock the car however, some are distinct. BMW owners, for example, can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is ideal for people who want to cool their vehicle during the scorching summer days.
The BMW key fob can also be used to begin your car. This is a wonderful safety precaution and prevents unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, drivers must first press the lock button on the key fob and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to remotely start the car. This feature is particularly useful when a driver is late to work and does not have time to turn the door.
The BMW key fob also has the capability of controlling the interior climate system. This is particularly helpful for those who travel with multiple people, as it is possible to set each individual's preferred temperature with their own key fob. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to check the battery's charge status.
Dropping them into water is not recommended. It's best to store the key fob in its case of protection when it is not in use. If you have lost your key fob, we can offer a solution that will disable the device, making it useless to thieves. This can be accomplished by contacting the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob can be purchased to restore full functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were once large, clunky rectangles of black that, from a distance, appeared like a bottle-opener. They were simple, but functional. BMW then made them smaller and put a plastic casing around the base to make it look more attractive and less like an opener for keys. The new design also reduced rough edges on the key which could pierce pockets or bags and made keys easier to hold.
BMW then introduced the Display Key which puts all the functions of your car 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 lets you park remotely on hybrid models!
BMW Digital Keys are a fantastic replacement if you need to replace the BMW key fob. Simply use your smartphone to replace the BMW key fob and unlock your car! This feature is available on 2021 and newer BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another exciting new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that lets you start your car and use certain features using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely manage your car's climate control and check battery levels and much more! You can even check how much gas you have left in your tank, in the event that your car is equipped with that feature.
The procedure for replacing a BMW Digital Key is the same regardless of whether you're using the traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. You'll need to bring your working 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 will cover the cost of replacement in the event that your keys are lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first step is to reset the key, which erases any programming on it and make it unusable. This is done by turning the key from position one, then back in quick succession, five times in the same row. Then, you turn it back to position zero and take off the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. The fob is compatible with your Apple Watch bmw lost keys or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It allows you to unlock your vehicle and then start the engine. You can also share the key with five other people.
The key fob transmits encrypted signals to the vehicle. This makes it impossible for hackers to steal and replicate the signal. In addition, the UWB technology in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is moving while it's being transported. The system also uses a built-in alarm to prevent unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch which is a frequent target for thieves.
BMW offers a variety of security features that are available as an option. Passive Start is one such feature that disables the starter motor when the key fob does remain within close proximity to your car. This feature is offered on a number of BMW models and offers an additional level of security.
BMW's more sophisticated models include keyless entry that allows drivers access and start their car without having to manually insert a key or press any buttons. This feature is usually activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times in the span of a second. In certain situations, you might have to press the lock on the fob three times to activate the remote start feature on the steering wheel or dashboard.
Some people carry their BMW keyfob in a pouch that blocks signals. This reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting the identifying code from the fob in order to gain access to the car. Some prefer using a standard case, which doesn't have this feature, but it does protect the fob against scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their cars were stolen by thieves who utilized a signal amplifier in order to boost the identifying signal. This type of attack is known as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping your key fob in a signal blocking pocket or by using a signal blocker app on your smartphone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery dies, or you need an extra battery for someone in your family. Luckily, purchasing the replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and inexpensive. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can sell you a replacement key fob. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650, depending on the type of BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob for your BMW first, make sure that there isn't another key in the ignition. You should also close all doors inside your vehicle. Insert your new key fob in the ignition, then quickly turn it from position 1 to position zero, and then back to position 1. Hold down the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. Once you have completed this, remove the key and turn on the car. The doors should unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you may 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 method of synchronizing with your car, however the steps for each are almost identical. The only difference is the metal key fob will need to be put into the ignition to start your vehicle.
If you own an BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process is even simpler. After you have programmed an entirely new key fob simply insert it into the ignition of your car and press the start button.
While your BMW is a fantastic vehicle to travel around Decatur, it is important that you keep your key fob in good condition. If you're looking for an updated BMW key fob, or a replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can assist you in selecting the best key fob for your needs and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.