What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob could have numerous functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, control your windows, and even start your engine.
There are some tricks you might not be aware of. Here are a few of the most effective.
Functions
The BMW key fob consists of a small rectangle of plastic that has several buttons incorporated in its side. Most of these buttons allow you to lock and unlock your car however, a few are distinctive. For instance, BMW owners can activate an invisible function on their key fob to lower all their windows at once by pressing the unlock button two times. This is ideal for those who want to cool their vehicle in the heat of summer.
Another major benefit of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This feature is a safety measure that prevents unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver has to press the lock button on the key fob, then press the circular arrow. For newer 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 the time to get out of the car to open the door handle.
Additionally lastly, the BMW key fob can also be used to control the car's interior climate system. This is particularly helpful for people who travel with multiple people, as it is possible to set each individual's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. If you own hybrid BMW, the key fob can be used to determine the state of charge of the battery in the vehicle.
While standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of humidity, dropping them into water can cause severe damage. It's best to store the key fob in its protective case when not in use. If you lose the key fob, a replacement is available to deactivate it, making it useless for thieves. This can be done by contacting the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob can be purchased to restore functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were once big, clunky rectangles in black that, from a distance, looked like a bottle-opener. They were simple, but functional. Then BMW began to make them a little smaller and also added an aluminum case around the base of the key, which made it look nicer and less resemble a bottle opener. This new design also reduced the rough edges of the key that could poke into pockets or bags, and made the keys easier for you to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the features of your car in your hand. The BMW key fob has a small LCD screen that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, control the air conditioning and display the information about your vehicle. It even offers remote parking on hybrid models!
BMW Digital Keys are a great replacement if you need to replace the BMW key fob. Just use your compatible smartphone to replace the BMW key fob and unlock your vehicle! This feature is available on 2021 or newer BMW vehicles that are equipped with the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is a innovative key from BMW that lets you start your vehicle and operate some features with your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely manage your car's climate control as well as check the battery level and more! You can even see how you've got gas left in your tank, should your car be equipped with that feature.
The process of replacing the BMW Digital Key is the same, whether you use an old-fashioned key or a BMW Digital Key. Our experts will assist you with the process when you bring your old key and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the cost of a replacement if your keys get stolen or lost.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first step is to reset the key, which will erase any programming on it and render it inoperable. This is done by turning the key from position one and then back in quick succession, five times in one row. Then, turn the key to position zero and remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a convenient way to start your vehicle. The fob is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and is compatible with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the vehicle and also start the engine. You can also share the key with five people.
The key fob communicates with the vehicle using encrypted signals. 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 uses an alarm to prevent unauthorized 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 within close proximity to the car. This feature is available in many of the brand's models and provides additional peace of mind.
A lot of the more sophisticated BMW models offer keyless access which allows drivers to get in and start the vehicle without having manually press any buttons or insert an actual key. This feature can be activated by pressing three times on the lock button of the fob within one second. In some instances, you may need to press the fob's lock three times to activate a remote start feature on the steering wheel or dashboard.
Some people prefer to carry their BMW key fob in a signal-blocking pouch which minimizes the possibility of a third party broadcasting the signal that identifies the fob and using it to gain access to the car. Others prefer to use the standard key case which doesn't have this feature, but can protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals using signal amplifiers to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This kind of attack, also known as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob into pockets that block signals, or by utilizing an app click here on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery dies or you require a spare for someone in your family. It's simple and inexpensive to get a replacement BMW fob, and then program it into your car. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can sell you an alternative key fob. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650 based on the type BMW you drive.
To program the new key fob into your BMW first, make sure that there is no other key in the ignition. You should also close the doors of your vehicle. Place your new key fob in the ignition and swiftly move it from position 1 to zero, and then back to position 1. Hold down the unlock button and quickly 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 the doors unlock and lock, which indicates that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you could either have a key blade in your key fob, or that isn't. Each key fob has its own method of synchronizing with your car, but the steps for each are almost identical. The only difference is that a key fob that has a metal key in it needs to be put into the ignition when you want to start the car.
If you have an BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process is even simpler. After you have programmed a new key fob, simply insert it into your BMW's ignition and press the start button.
While your BMW is a great way 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 locate a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you locate the perfect key fob for your car and even upgrade your BMW with an upgrade to Comfort Access to allow keyless entry and engine starting.