What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob is likely to have many functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, manage your windows and even start your engine.
But there are some secrets you might not be aware of. Here are a few of the most effective.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangle of plastic that has several buttons incorporated into its side. Most of the buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, but certain buttons have additional functions. For example, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on the key fob to lower all of their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button twice. This is ideal for those who wish to cool down their car in the heat of summer.
The BMW key fob can also be used to start your vehicle. This is a security measure to ensure that no one is able to gain access to the vehicle. To start the vehicle, the driver needs to first press the lock on the fob of the key and then press the circular arrow. For the latest BMW models, this feature can also be used to remotely start the vehicle. This is particularly useful 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 also has the capability of controlling the internal climate system. This is particularly convenient for those who travel with multiple individuals as each key fob can be used to set the temperature for each person. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to check the battery's charging status.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. It's best to keep the key fob in a protective case when not in use. If you lose your key fob we can offer a solution that will deactivate the device, rendering it inaccessible to thieves. This can be accomplished by contact with the dealer or one of our technicians. You can buy a replacement BMW key fob to restore the functionality of your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were once large, clunky rectangles of black that, from a distance, looked 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 a key opener. This new design also minimized the rough edges of keys which could puncture bags or pockets and made keys more comfortable to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all of your vehicle's functionality in the palm of your hand. It allows you to lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and see the information about your vehicle on a tiny LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!
If you're in need of an upgrade, you can get the same great function with the BMW Digital Key. Simply use your smartphone to replace the BMW key fob and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is only available to BMW vehicles manufactured after 2021 using the iDrive 8 system.
Another new and exciting key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that lets you start your car and operate certain functions using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely control the climate control of your car and check battery levels. You can see how much fuel is left in your car if it is equipped with this feature.
The process of replacing the BMW Digital Key is the same whether you're using a traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. You'll have to bring your original key along with the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will help 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 thing you have 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 in quick succession, five times in the same row. 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 car. The fob is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the car and start the engine. You can also share the key with five other people.
The key fob connects to the vehicle via encrypted signals. This makes it impossible for hackers to intercept and clone the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents relay attacks even if it is in motion. The system employs an alarm to stop unauthorised starting and disables the ignition switch.
BMW also offers a range 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 on all models of the brand and offers peace of mind.
A number of the more advanced BMW models have keyless access which allows drivers to enter and start the car without having to manually push any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature is usually activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times in a single second. In some instances it may be necessary to press the button to lock the fob three times to then activate a separate remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people choose to carry their BMW key fob in a pouch that blocks signals, which reduces the risk of a third-party broadcasting the identification signal from the fob and using it to gain access to the car. Others prefer to use an ordinary key case which doesn't have this feature, but it will protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars were snatched by criminals using signal amplifiers to boost the identification signals. This type of attack is known as "Relay Attack" and can be avoided by keeping the key fob in a signal-blocking pocket or by installing an app that blocks signals on your smartphone.
Replacement
Everybody has experienced this: the battery in your BMW key fob fails or you have to purchase another one for your family. Thankfully, getting a replacement BMW key fob and programming it to your car is simple and affordable. You can buy an alternative from any dealer or locksmith who is authorized by BMW. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650 based on the kind of BMW you drive.
Check to see if there is other ignition key in your BMW before you begin programming a new keyfob. You should also close the doors of your vehicle. Insert your new key fob in the ignition, then quickly turn it from position 1 to 0, and back to position 1. Press the unlock button, then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. Once you've completed this, remove bmw replacement key cost the key and then turn on the car. The doors should unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car depending on the model of your car, you could have keys that have 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 inserted in the ignition to begin your car.
If you own a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is even easier. Once you have programmed your new key fob into your BMW then, you can insert it into the ignition and press start.
While your BMW is a great way to get around Decatur however, it is vital that you keep your key fob in a good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department can assist you find a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can assist you in selecting the best key fob for your needs and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.