What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob probably has many functions. You can use it for a variety of purposes, including opening your doors, controlling your windows and even starting your engine.
There are a few tricks you may not know about. Here are some of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a tiny, rectangular piece of plastic, with many buttons built into its side. The majority of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, but certain buttons have additional functions. For example, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on their key fob to lower all their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button twice. This is perfect for those who wish to cool down their car in the heat of summer.
Another important purpose of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This is a fantastic security precaution that prevents unauthorised entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, drivers must first 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 particularly helpful in situations where the driver is late for work and doesn't have time to get out of the car and open the door handle.
The BMW key fob can also be used for controlling the internal climate system. This is particularly convenient for those who travel with multiple people as each key fob is able to set the preferred temperature for each person. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to check on the battery's charging status.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. This is why it's best to keep the key fob in a safe case when not in use. If you happen to lose the key fob, a replacement can be offered to deactivate it, making it unusable for thieves. This can be done by calling the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob can be purchased to restore full functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were huge, clunky rectangular shapes in black that from a distance looked like a bottle opener. They were basic, but useful. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it look more attractive and less like the key opener. The new design also trimmed the rough edges of keys that could pierce pockets or bags and made the keys easier to hold.
BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the functions of your car in your hand. It allows you to lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and display vehicle information on a small touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models come with remote parking!
BMW Digital Keys are an excellent replacement option if you have to replace your BMW key fob. You can use any smartphone compatible to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is available for 2021 and newer BMW cars that use the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is another innovative key from BMW that lets you start your vehicle and operate some features with 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 is equipped with this feature.
Whether you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process of obtaining an replacement is the same. Our experts will assist you with the process when you bring both your old key and the new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase an BMW Key Protection Plan, which covers 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 will erase any programming it has and make it unusable. This is accomplished five times, by shifting the key from position one to zero and back. Then you can turn the key to position zero and remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. The fob works with your Apple Watch or smartphone and is compatible with BMW Connected Drive. It allows you to unlock your vehicle and also start the engine. It also lets you share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob communicates with vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it impossible for hackers to intercept and replicate the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even when it is in motion. The system employs an alarm to block unauthorised starting and disables ignition switch.
BMW also provides a variety of security options that are available, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob is not near to the car. This feature is available in many of the brand's models and gives you security.
BMW's most advanced models come with keyless entry, which allows drivers access and start their vehicle without having manually insert a key or press any buttons. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button of the fob within one second. In certain situations, you might need to press the fob's lock 3 times in order to activate a remote start feature on the steering wheel or dashboard.
Some people keep their BMW keyfob in a pouch that blocks signals. This reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting the identifying code from the fob to gain access to the car. Some prefer the standard key case which doesn't have this feature, but can protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars were stolen by criminals using a signal amplifier to boost the identification signals. This type of attack, known as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob in pockets that block signals, or by installing an application on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
Everyone has experienced this - the battery in your BMW key fob fails or you need to buy an extra one for your family. It's easy and affordable to purchase a new BMW fob, and then program it into your vehicle. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths can sell you an alternative key fob. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650 based on the type BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob to your BMW first, make sure that there is no other key in the ignition. Close all doors in your vehicle. Next you'll need to insert the new key fob into the ignition and switch it to position 1 and return to position 0 five times quickly. Hold down the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. Once you've completed this, remove the key and then turn on the car. You should hear your car's doors check here lock and unlock. This means that the new key fob was successfully programmed.
Based on the car model, you may have keys that have a key blade that is physically inside it, or a key fob without one. The process of synchronizing new fobs with your car differs for each, but the steps are similar. The only difference is the metal key fob needs to be put in the ignition to start your car.
If you own a BMW with Comfort Access the process is even simpler. After you have programmed a new key fob, simply connect it to the ignition of your car and press the start button.
It is important to maintain your BMW key fob in good order. Patrick BMW's parts department can assist you find a replacement BMW fob or replacement. We can help you locate the right key fob for your car and can upgrade your BMW with an upgrade to Comfort Access to enable keyless entry as well as engine starting.