What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have a BMW, chances are that your key fob comes with many functions. You can use it for many things, including unlocking your doors, adjusting your windows as well as starting the engine.
There are some tricks you might not be aware of. Let's look at some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a tiny, rectangular piece of plastic that has many buttons built into its side. The majority of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, but a few have more unique functions. For example, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on the key fob to lower all their windows at once by pressing the unlock button two times. This is a great option for those who want to cool their car during a hot summer's day.
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, the driver has to 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 vehicle. This feature is particularly useful when a driver is late for work and does not have time to open the door handle.
Additionally lastly, the BMW key fob may also be used to control the car's interior climate system. This is especially convenient for those who travel with several people, since it is possible to set each individual's preferred temperature with their own key fob. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to check on the battery's charge status.
While standard BMW key fobs can withstand normal levels of water, dropping them into water can cause severe damage. It is best to store the key fob inside its protective case when it is not in use. If you lose your key fob, we can offer a service which will deactivate the device, rendering it useless to thieves. Contacting the dealer or our technicians will do this. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob can then be purchased to restore functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were once big, clunky rectangles in 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 look more appealing and less like an opener for keys. The new design also trimmed the rough edges of the keys which could puncture bags or pockets, and made keys easier to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the functions of your vehicle in your hand. The BMW key fob has small LCD screens that lets you lock and unlock your vehicle, control the air conditioning and view the information about your vehicle. Even hybrid models can have remote parking!
If you're in need of an upgrade for your BMW Digital Key, you can enjoy the same great functionality with the BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your vehicle by using your smartphone, provided you have an appropriate model. This feature is available on 2021 or more recent 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 operate some of its features with your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely manage your car's climate control, check battery levels, and much more! You can check how much fuel remains in your car, if it's equipped with this feature.
The procedure for replacing the BMW Digital Key is the same, whether you use an old-fashioned 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 help you with everything. You can also purchase the BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover replacement costs if your keys get 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 will erase all programming and render it inoperable. This is done by turning the key from position one and back quickly, five times in the same row. Then, turn the key until it is at zero and remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a convenient method to start your vehicle. The fob pairs with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle and start the engine and more. It also allows you to share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob connects to the vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it impossible for hackers to intercept and clone the signal. Additionally, the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is in motion while it's being carried. The system also has an alarm built-in to stop unauthorized 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 if the key fob doesn't remain within close proximity to your vehicle. This feature is offered in several models from the brand and offers security.
Many of the more advanced BMW models have 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 in just one second. In some instances, you may need 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 key fob in a case that blocks signals. This decreases the possibility of a third-party broadcasting identifying code from the fob to gain access to the vehicle. Some prefer using a standard case, which does not come with the feature, but it does protect the fob against scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars have been stolen by criminals who simply utilized a signal amplifier in order to increase the signal that identifies. This type of attack, referred to as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob into pockets that block signals or by using an app on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
Everybody has experienced this: the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you need to buy another 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 a replacement key fob. A new key fob is likely to cost between $400 and $650, based on the model of BMW you drive.
Make sure there is no other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming the new keyfob. Also, close all doors inside your vehicle. Put your new key fob in the ignition and swiftly turn it from position 1 to position 0, and back to position 1. Then, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you've completed this, remove the key and turn on the car. You should hear your vehicle's doors unlock and lock. This means that the new key fob was successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you could either have a key blade on your key fob or one that isn't. The process for syncing new fobs to your vehicle differs for each however the steps are similar. The only difference is the metal key fob has to be inserted in the ignition to begin your vehicle.
If you have a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is even easier. After you've programmed the new key fob, simply connect it to the ignition of your BMW and press the start button.
While your BMW is a fantastic vehicle to travel around Decatur, it is important to keep your key fob in a good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you find a replacement BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you find the perfect key fob for your car and even upgrade your BMW with the Comfort Access upgrade to enable keyless entry and engine key replacement bmw starting.