What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own an BMW it is likely that your key fob has many functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, manage your windows, and even start the engine.
However, there are some secrets you might not know about. Here are a few of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic that has many buttons incorporated into its sides. The majority of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, but certain buttons have additional functions. BMW owners, for instance, can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is a great option for those who want to cool down their car during a hot summer day.
Another major benefit of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This is a wonderful security measure and blocks unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver has to press the lock button on the key fob and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to remotely start the car. This feature is especially useful when a driver is running late to work and does not have time to turn the door.
Lastly, the BMW key fob can be used to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is particularly useful for those who travel with multiple people, as it is possible to set each person's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. If you have hybrid BMW key fob can be used to monitor the charging status of the battery of the vehicle.
Dropping them into water is not recommended. It is best to store the key fob inside its case that is protected when not in use. If you lose the key fob, a replacement can be provided that will disable it, rendering it unusable for thieves. Contacting our dealer or technicians will be able to do this. You can purchase a new BMW key fob to re-establish the functionality of your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were once big black, clunky rectangles that looked a bit like a bottle opener from the distance. They were simple, but functional. Then BMW started to make them a little smaller and also added an aluminum case around the base of the key that made it look more attractive and a little less like a bottle opener. The new design also trimmed the rough edges of the key that could poke into pockets or bags 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. The BMW key fob features small LCD screens that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, operate the air conditioning and display the vehicle's information. Even hybrid models can have remote parking!
If you're in need of an upgrade key fob, you can have the same great functionality by using the BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your vehicle using your smartphone when you own a compatible model. This feature is available for 2021 and newer BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another exciting new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which lets you start your car and operate certain features using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control the climate control of your car and monitor battery levels. You can even see how much gas you have left in your tank, in the event that your car is equipped with that feature.
If you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process for getting an replacement is the same. You'll have to bring your original key along with the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will assist you with everything. You can also purchase the BMW Key Protection plan, which will pay for the cost of a replacement if your keys are stolen or lost.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first step is to reset the key, which erases any programming it has and render it inoperable. This is accomplished by turning the key to position one and then back in quick succession, five times in a row. Then, 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 is compatible with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle and start the engine and much more. It also lets you share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob transmits encrypted signals to the vehicle. It is therefore extremely difficult for hackers and cloners to get the signal. Additionally to this, the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even when the fob is in motion when it is being carried. The system uses an alarm to prevent unauthorized starting and disables ignition switch.
BMW offers a range of security options that can be added. Passive Start is one of them. It will disable the starter motor if the key fob does remain within close proximity to your vehicle. This feature is available on a variety of BMW models and offers additional peace of mind.
A lot of the more sophisticated BMW models offer keyless access that lets drivers enter and start the vehicle without having manually push any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature can be activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob in just one second. In certain situations, you may need to press the button to lock the fob three times and then turn on an additional remote start feature within 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 identifying signal from the fob and using it to access the car. Some people prefer to use a standard case that does not come with the feature, but still protects the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their vehicles were stolen by criminals who just used a signal amplifier to increase the signal that identifies. 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 phone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery dies or you need a spare for someone in your family. It's simple and inexpensive to purchase a new BMW fob, and program it into your car. You can purchase a replacement from any dealership or locksmith who is authorized by BMW. A new key fob costs between $400 and $650, depending on the model of BMW you drive.
To program the new key fob into your BMW first, make sure that there isn't another key in the ignition. Also, close all doors in your vehicle. Put your new key fob in the ignition, then quickly change it from position 1 to zero, and then back again. Next, 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 has been successfully programmed.
Based on the car model, you may have keys that have a physical key blade inside it or a key fob that does not have one. The process of synchronizing new fobs to your vehicle is different for each one however, the steps are similar. The only difference is that a key fob with a metal key inside will need to be inserted into the ignition when you wish to start the car.
If you have a BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even easier. After you've programmed a new key fob, simply connect it read more to your BMW's ignition and press the start button.
While your BMW is a great way to travel around Decatur, it is important to keep your key fob in good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department can help you find a new BMW fob or replacement. We can help you locate 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.