What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob probably has numerous functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, operate your windows and even start the engine.
But there are some secret techniques that you may not know about. Here are some of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small, rectangular piece of plastic with many buttons built into its side. The majority of these buttons unlock and lock the car however, some are unique. BMW owners, for example can activate a hidden function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is a great option for those who want to cool their vehicle on the scorching summer days.
The BMW key fob can be used to start your car. This feature is a safety measure that prevents unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the engine, drivers must first press the lock button on the key fob, then the circular arrow. For newer BMW models the feature can be used to remotely start the car. This is especially 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 can also be used for controlling the interior climate system. This is especially helpful for people who travel with several people as each key fob is able to set the preferred temperature for each individual. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to check on the battery's charge status.
While standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of humidity, dropping them into water can cause serious damage. For this reason, it's recommended to keep the key fob in a protective case when not in use. If you lose the key fob, a replacement can be provided that will disable it, rendering it inaccessible to thieves. Contacting our dealer or technicians will do this. You can purchase a new BMW key fob to repair your car's functionality.
Design
BMW key fobs were once huge, clunky rectangular shapes in black that, from a distance, appeared like a bottle opener. They were basic, but they served a purpose. BMW then made them smaller and put a plastic casing around the base to make it appear more appealing and less like the key opener. This new design also minimized the rough edges of keys which could puncture pockets or bags and made the keys easier to hold.
BMW introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your palm. It lets you lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and see the information about your vehicle on a tiny LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models come with remote parking!
If you're in need of a replacement, you can get the same great functionality by using the BMW Digital Key. You can use any smartphone compatible to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is only available to BMW vehicles manufactured after 2021 with the iDrive 8 system.
The Connected Remote key is a cool new key from BMW that allows you to start your car and use certain features using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely manage your car's climate control and check battery levels. You can even check how much gas is left in your tank should your car be equipped with that feature.
The process for replacing the BMW Digital Key is the same whether you're using an old-fashioned key or a BMW Digital Key. Our experts will assist you with the process if you bring both your old key and new one to Patrick BMW. 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 will erase all programming and render it useless. This is accomplished five times, by shifting the key from position one to zero and back. Then you can turn the key until it is at zero and take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. The fob is compatible 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 allows you to share the key with up to five others.
The key fob is encrypted and transmits signals to the vehicle. This makes it difficult for hackers to steal and clone the signal. In addition to this, the UWB technology in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even when the fob is moving while it's being carried. The system also has an alarm built-in to stop non-authorized starts and disables ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.
BMW offers a variety of optional security features. Passive Start is one of them. It disables the starter motor if the key fob does not remain close to your car. This feature is offered on a number of BMW models and can provide an additional level of security.
BMW's more advanced models feature keyless entry, which allows users to start their car without having to manually insert a key or push any buttons. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button of the fob in a single second. In some instances, you may need to press the lock button on the fob three times to then turn on an additional remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people keep their BMW keyfob in a pouch that blocks signals. This minimizes the risk that a third party broadcasts the identifying code from the fob to gain access to the car. Some prefer the standard key case which does not have this feature but will still protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals using signal amplifiers to boost the identification signals. This type of attack, also known as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob in pockets that block signals or by using an app on your phone here to block signals.
Replacement
It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery dies, or you need a spare for a family member. It's simple and inexpensive to purchase a new BMW fob, and program it into your car. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can offer you an alternative key fob. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650, depending on the type BMW you drive.
Check to see if there is other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming the new keyfob. You should also close all doors inside your vehicle. Next you'll need to insert the new key fob into the ignition, and move it to position 1 and back to position 0 five times rapidly. Hold down the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, take off your key and turn the car on. You should hear the doors unlock and lock, which indicates that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you could either have a key blade on your key fob or that isn't. The process for syncing new fobs with your car is different for each, but the steps are nearly identical. The only difference is that a key fob that has a metallic key in it will need to be put into the ignition when you want to start the car.
If you own a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is even simpler. After you have programmed an entirely new key fob simply insert it into your BMW's ignition and press the start button.
It is crucial to keep your BMW key fob in working condition. Patrick BMW's parts department can help you find a new BMW fob or replacement. We can assist you in finding the right key fob for your vehicle and even upgrade your BMW by introducing the Comfort Access upgrade to enable keyless entry and engine starting.