20 Things You Should Know About BMW Key Fob
20 Things You Should Know About BMW Key Fob
Blog Article
What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have an BMW it is likely that your key fob is equipped with many functions. It can be used for a variety of purposes, including unlocking your doors, adjusting your windows and even starting your engine.
However, there are some secrets you might not know about. Let's take a look at some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangle of plastic that has many buttons incorporated into its side. Most of these buttons unlock and lock the car however, some are distinctive. BMW owners, for instance can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is perfect for those who wish to cool off their car in the heat of summer.
Another important function of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This is a wonderful security precaution that prevents unauthorised entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, drivers must first press the lock button on the key fob, then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to start the vehicle remotely. This is especially useful when the driver is in a hurry for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car to get the door.
The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the interior climate system. This is particularly useful for those who travel with multiple people, since it is possible to set each person's preferred temperature with their own key fob. If you have hybrid BMW key fob, it can be used to determine the state of charge of the battery in the vehicle.
Dropping them in 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 do lose the key fob, a solution is available to disable it, making it inaccessible to thieves. Contacting the dealer or our technicians can do this. You can buy a replacement BMW key fob to re-establish the functionality of your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were 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 put a plastic casing around the base to make it look more attractive and less like an opener for keys. The new design also reduced the rough edges of the key that could get into pockets or bags, and made the keys more comfortable to hold.
BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the features of your vehicle in your hands. It allows you to lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and see the vehicle's information on a small LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models come with remote parking!
If you're in need of an alternative key fob, you can have the same great functionality by using a BMW Digital Key. Just use your compatible smartphone to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is only available for BMW vehicles made after 2021 that use the iDrive 8 system.
The Connected Remote key is a cool new key from BMW that lets you start your car and use some features with your smartphone. The app lets you remotely control the climate control of your car and check battery levels. You can also see how much gas is left in your tank should your car be equipped with that feature.
If you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process of obtaining a replacement is similar. Our experts will assist you with the process when you bring both your old key and the new one to Patrick BMW. You can also choose to purchase a 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 will erase any programming on it and render it useless. This is accomplished by turning the key to position one and back in quick succession, five times in one row. Then, turn the key to position zero and take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a efficient method to start your vehicle. The fob is compatible with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle, start the engine, and more. You can also share the key with five people.
The key fob is encrypted and transmits signals with the vehicle. It is therefore impossible for hackers and cloners, to intercept the signal. In addition to this, the UWB technology in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even if the fob is moving while it's being transported. The system also has an alarm built-in to stop unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch which is a frequent target for thieves.
BMW also provides a variety of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob isn't in close proximity to the vehicle. This feature is available on many of the brand's models and offers security.
A lot of the more sophisticated BMW models offer keyless access which allows drivers to enter and start the vehicle without having manually push any buttons or insert an actual key. This feature is usually activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times within one second. In certain situations it may be necessary to press the button to lock the fob three times and then activate an additional remote start feature in the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people keep their BMW key fob in a case that blocks signals. This minimizes the risk of a third-party broadcasting identification code from the fob in order to gain access to the car. Some prefer using an ordinary case that does not have the feature, but it does protect the fob against scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals using a signal amplifier to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This kind of attack is referred to as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping the key fob in a signal blocking pocket or by using a signal-blocking app on your smartphone.
Replacement
Everyone has had this experience - the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you'll need to purchase an extra one for your family. Fortunately, finding the replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and inexpensive. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can offer you the replacement key fob. A new key fob can 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 the doors of your vehicle. Insert your new key fob into the ignition, and quickly move it from position 1 to zero, and then back to position 1. Then, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. Once you've completed this, remove your key and turn your car on. The doors should lock and unlock, indicating that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you could either have a key blade inside your key fob or without. Each one has a distinct method of synchronizing with your vehicle, but the steps for each are almost identical. The only difference is that the fob with a metal key in it will need to be put into the ignition when you are ready to start your car.
If you own a BMW with Comfort Access the process is even easier. Once you have programmed your new key fob into your BMW then, you can insert it into the ignition and press start.
It is important to ensure that your BMW key fob in working here in good working order. Patrick BMW's parts department can help you find a replacement BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you select the right key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.