What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own a BMW it is likely that your key fob comes with many functions. It can be used to do a variety of things, such as unlocking your doors, adjusting your windows as well as starting the engine.
There are a few hidden tricks that you might not have heard of. Let's look at some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob consists of an incredibly small piece of plastic with many buttons incorporated into its sides. Most of them allow you to lock and unlock your car, but a few are distinctive. BMW owners, for instance can activate a hidden function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is ideal for those who wish to cool their vehicle in the heat of summer.
The BMW key fob can also be used to start your vehicle. This is a security measure that prevents unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver must press the lock button on the key fob, then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to remotely start the car. This is especially useful in a situation where 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 also has the capability of controlling the interior climate system. This is especially useful for those who travel with multiple individuals as each key fob is able to set the temperature of each person. If you own hybrid BMW, the key fob can be used to determine the state of charge of the battery of the vehicle.
While standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of humidity, dropping them into water can cause serious damage. This is why it's best to keep the key fob in a protective case when not in use. If you lose the key fob, a replacement is available to disable it, rendering it unusable for thieves. This can be done by calling the dealer or one of our technicians. You can buy a replacement BMW key fob to re-establish your car's functionality.
Design
BMW key fobs were 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 added a plastic casing around the base to make it appear more attractive and less like an opener for keys. This new design also reduced rough edges on the keys which could pierce pockets or bags, and made the keys more comfortable to hold.
BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your hands. It lets you lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and display the information about your vehicle on a tiny LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models can have remote parking!
If you're in need of a replacement, you can get the same great function with the BMW Digital Key. Just use your compatible smartphone to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is available on 2021 or newer BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another cool new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which lets you start your car and operate certain functions using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely control your car's climate control as well as check the battery level and much more! You can check how much fuel is left in your car, if it's equipped with this feature.
The process of replacing the 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 in the event that 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 unusable. This is accomplished by turning the key from position one and back quickly, five times in one row. Then switch the key until it is at zero and remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. It is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It check here can unlock the vehicle and start the engine. You can also share the key with five people.
The key fob communicates encrypted signals to the vehicle. This makes it impossible for hackers to steal and clone the signal. In addition, the UWB technology in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is in motion when it is being transported. The system also uses a built-in alarm to prevent unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch, which is a common target for thieves.
BMW offers a range of security options that can be added. Passive Start is one of them. It disables the starter motor when the key fob doesn't remain within close proximity to your vehicle. This feature is offered on a number of BMW models and provides additional peace of mind.
A lot of the more sophisticated BMW models have keyless access which allows drivers to enter and start the car without having to manually use any buttons or insert an actual key. This feature is typically activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times within one second. In some instances, you may need to press the fob's lock three times to activate the remote start feature on the dashboard or steering wheel.
Some people keep their BMW keyfob in a bag that blocks signals. This reduces the chance that a third party broadcasts the unique code that is on the fob in order to gain access to the car. Some people prefer to use a standard case that doesn't have this feature, but it still protects the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners reported that their cars were snatched by criminals using signal amplifiers to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This type of attack, referred to as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob in pockets that block signals or by using an app on your phone to block signals.
Replacement
Everybody has experienced this: the battery in your BMW key fob goes out or you'll need to purchase a spare one for a family. It's affordable and easy to get a replacement BMW fob and then program it into your vehicle. You can buy the replacement from any dealership or locksmith who is authorized by BMW. A new key fob will typically cost between $400 and $650, depending on the model of 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, and quickly move it from position 1 to position 0, and back to position 1. Then, hold down the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you've completed this, remove your key and turn the vehicle on. 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 keys that have a key blade that is physically inside it or a key fob that does not have one. Each fob has a different method of synchronizing with your car, but the steps for each are identical. The only difference is that the fob with a metal key in it will need to be placed in the ignition whenever you are ready to start your car.
If you own an BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even easier. After you've programmed the new key fob, simply connect it to your BMW's ignition and press the start button.
While your BMW is a fantastic vehicle to get around Decatur however, it is vital to keep your key fob in good working condition. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you find a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can assist you in selecting the correct key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.