What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob is likely to have numerous functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, control your windows and even start the engine.
There are some tricks you may not be aware of. Let's take a look at some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a tiny, rectangular piece of plastic, with a number of buttons integrated into its side. The majority of these buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, however some have additional functions. For example, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on their key fob to lower all their windows at once by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is a great option for those looking to cool down their car during a hot summer day.
The BMW key fob can also be used to begin your car. This is a fantastic security precaution that prevents unauthorised entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver must 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 vehicle. This is particularly helpful in a situation where the driver is running late for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car to get the door handle.
Lastly it is worth noting that the BMW key fob can also be used to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is particularly useful for those who travel with several individuals, as it's possible to set each individual's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to monitor the battery's charge status.
Dropping them into water is not recommended. This is why it's best to keep the key fob in a protective case when not in use. If you happen to lose the key fob, a service is available to deactivate it, making it useless for thieves. This can be accomplished by calling the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob could be purchased to restore full functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs used to be large, clunky black rectangles that looked like a bottle opener from the distance. They were simple, but functional. Then BMW began to make them smaller and also added a plastic case around the base of the key, which made it appear more elegant and less resemble a bottle opener. This new design also reduced the rough edges of keys that could poke through pockets or bags and made the keys easier to hold.
BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the functions of your car in your hand. The BMW key fob comes with an LCD screen that lets you lock and unlock your vehicle, control the air conditioning, and access the vehicle's information. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!
BMW Digital Keys are a fantastic replacement option if you have to replace the BMW key fob. Simply use your smartphone to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your car! This feature is only available to BMW vehicles built after 2021 using the iDrive 8 system.
Another cool new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which allows you to start your vehicle and use certain functions using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely manage your car's climate control as well as check the battery level and much more! You can even check how much gas is left in your tank should your car be equipped with this feature.
If you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process for getting a replacement is similar. You'll have to bring the original key along with the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will assist you with everything. You can also purchase an BMW Key Protection plan, which will pay for the cost of a replacement in the event that keys get lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first step is to reset the key, which erases any programming that was stored on it and render it useless. This is done by turning the key to position one and then back quickly, five times in a row. Then, turn it back to zero and then take off 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 works with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the vehicle and start the engine. You can also share the key with five other people.
The key fob communicates encrypted signals with the vehicle. It is therefore extremely difficult for hackers and cloners to get the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents relay attacks even if it is moving. The system employs an alarm to block unauthorised starting and disables the ignition switch.
BMW also provides a variety of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob is not within close proximity to the vehicle. This feature is available on many BMW models and offers additional peace of mind.
BMW's most advanced models come with keyless entry that allows users to start their vehicle without having to manually inserting a key or pressing any buttons. This feature is usually activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times in the span of a second. In certain situations, you might need to press the fob's lock three times to activate the remote start feature on the dashboard or steering wheel.
Some people prefer to carry their BMW key fob in a pouch with a signal blocker, which reduces the risk of a third-party broadcasting the identifying signal from the fob and allowing access to the car. Others prefer to use a standard 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 stolen by criminals who simply used a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signal. This type of attack, referred to as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob into pockets that block signals, or by utilizing an app on your phone to block signals.
Replacement
It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you require an extra battery for a family member. Fortunately, finding a replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is simple and affordable. You can buy an alternative from any dealer or locksmith who is authorized by BMW. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650, depending on the kind of BMW you drive.
Make sure there is no other ignition key in your BMW before you begin programming a new keyfob. Also, close the doors of your vehicle. Insert your new key fob in the ignition, then quickly move it from position 1 to position zero, and then back again. Hold down the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. new bmw key fob Once you've completed this, remove 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.
Based on the model of your car, you could have a key blade in your key fob, or without. The process for syncing new fobs with your car differs for each, but the steps are almost identical. The only difference is that the key fob that has a metal key in it will need to be put into the ignition when you wish to start the car.
If you own a BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even more straightforward. After you've programmed a new key fob, simply insert it into the ignition of your car and press the start button.
It is important to ensure that your BMW key fob in good condition. If you are looking for an updated BMW key fob or replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you select the right key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.