What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob is likely to have numerous functions. You can use it to do a variety of things, such as unlocking your doors, adjusting your windows and even starting your engine.
There are a few secrets you might not be aware of. Let's take a look some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob consists of an incredibly small piece of plastic that has several buttons incorporated in its side. Most of them allow you to lock and unlock your car however, a few are distinct. For example, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on the key fob to lower all of their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button two times. This is perfect for those who wish to cool off their car on a hot summer day.
Another significant benefit of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver has to first turn off the lock on the fob of the key and then press the circular arrow. For newer BMW models, this feature can also be used to remotely start the car. This feature is particularly beneficial when a driver is late for work and doesn't have time to turn the door.
The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the interior climate system. This is particularly useful for people who travel with multiple people, as it is possible to set each person's preferred temperature using their own key fob. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to check the battery's charging status.
While standard BMW key fobs can withstand normal levels of humidity, dropping them into water can cause significant damage. For this reason, it's a good idea to keep the key fob in a secure case when not in use. If you lose the key fob, a service can be offered to disable it, making it unusable for thieves. Contacting our dealer or technicians will be able to do this. You can purchase a replacement BMW key fob to re-establish the functionality of your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were huge, clunky black rectangles that looked like an opener for bottles from a distance. They were basic, but they served a purpose. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it appear better and less like the key opener. This new design also reduced the rough edges of the key which could pierce bags or pockets and made the keys easier to hold.
BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your palm. The BMW key fob comes with a small LCD screen which allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, control the air conditioning and view the information about your vehicle. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!
If you're in need of a replacement key fob, you can have the same great functionality by using a BMW Digital Key. Simply use your smartphone to replace the BMW key fob and unlock your vehicle! This feature is only available for BMW vehicles built after 2021 that use the iDrive 8 system.
Another new and exciting key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that allows you to start your car and control certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control the climate control of your car, check battery levels, and more! You can check the amount of fuel left in your car if it is equipped with this feature.
The procedure for replacing a BMW Digital Key is the same, whether you use a traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. You'll need to bring your working key along with the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will assist you with everything. You can also choose to purchase a BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the cost of a replacement in the event that your keys are 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 on it and make it unusable. This is accomplished five times by rapidly changing the key from position one to position zero and back. Then, turn the key to position zero and take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. The fob is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the car and also start the engine. It also allows you to share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob communicates with vehicle via encrypted signals. This makes it difficult for hackers to intercept and replicate the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even if the device is in motion. The system also uses an inbuilt alarm system to block non-authorized starts and disables ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.
BMW offers a range of security features that are available as an option. Passive Start is one of them. It disables the starter motor when the key fob does not remain close to your vehicle. This feature is available on a variety of BMW models and provides an additional level of security.
A lot of the more sophisticated BMW models come with keyless access which allows drivers to get in and start the car without having to manually use any buttons or insert the physical key. This feature is usually activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times in a single second. In some cases it is possible to press the button to lock the fob three times, and then turn on a separate remote start feature within the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW key fob in a pouch with a signal blocker, which reduces the risk of a third-party broadcasting the signal that identifies the fob and using it to gain access to the car. Some people prefer to use a standard case, which does not come with the feature, but it does protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their vehicles were stolen by criminals who just utilized a signal amplifier in order to boost the identifying signal. This kind of attack is referred to as "Relay Attack" and can be avoided by keeping the key fob in a signal-blocking pocket or by installing a signal-blocking app on your phone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery fails or you require an extra battery for a family member. Fortunately, finding a replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and affordable. You can purchase an alternative from any dealer or locksmith authorized by BMW. A new key fob is likely to cost between $400 and $650, depending on the kind of BMW you drive.
Check to see if there is other ignition key in your BMW before you begin programming the new keyfob. Close all doors of your vehicle. Put your new key fob into the ignition and swiftly change it from position 1 to zero, and then back to position 1. Hold the unlock button and quickly press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you have finished this, remove your key and turn the car on. You should hear your car's doors unlock and lock. This means that the new key fob was successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you could have a key blade inside your key fob, or that isn't. Each key fob has its own process to sync with your vehicle, but the steps for each are nearly identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob get more info needs to be inserted in the ignition to begin your car.
If you own a BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process is even easier. Once you have programmed your new key fob to your BMW and inserted it into the ignition and press start.
It is essential to maintain your BMW key fob in working condition. Patrick BMW's parts department can help you find a new BMW fob or replacement. We can help you choose the right key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.