What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have a BMW, chances are that your key fob is equipped with a lot of functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, control your windows and even start the engine.
However, there are some secret techniques that you may not be aware of. Here are some of the most effective.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangle of plastic that has several buttons incorporated in its side. The majority of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, however some 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 wish to cool down their car on a hot summer day.
The BMW key fob can be used to start your car. This feature is a safety measure to ensure that no one is able to gain access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver must first press the lock on the fob of the key and then press the circular arrow. For the latest BMW models the feature can be used to remotely start the car. This feature is especially useful when a driver is late to work and doesn't have the time to pull the door handle.
The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the internal climate system. This is especially helpful for those traveling with multiple people as each key fob can be used to determine the preferred temperature for each individual. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to check on the battery's charge status.
Dropping them into water is not recommended. It is recommended to keep the key fob in its case of protection when not in use. If you happen to lose the key fob, a solution can be offered to disable it, making it inaccessible to thieves. Contacting the dealer or our technicians can do this. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob can then be purchased to restore functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were huge, clunky rectangular shapes in black that, from a distance, appeared like a bottle opener. They were simple, but functional. Then BMW began to make them smaller and put a case made of plastic around the base of the key that made it appear more elegant and a little less like a bottle opener. This new design also reduced the rough edges of the keys which could puncture bags or pockets, and made keys easier to hold.
BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your hands. The BMW key fob has small LCD screens which allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, operate the air conditioning, and access the vehicle's information. It even offers remote parking on hybrid models!
BMW Digital Keys are a great replacement option if you have to replace your BMW key fob. You can unlock your vehicle by using your smartphone, if you have an appropriate model. This feature is available on 2021 or later BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is another innovative key from BMW that lets you start your car and control certain features using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely manage your car's climate control and monitor battery levels. You can even see how much gas you have left in your tank should your car be equipped with that feature.
No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob bmw replacement key cost uk the process for getting the replacement is the same. Our experts will assist you in the process if you bring your old key and the new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase the BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover replacement costs 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 will erase any programming on it and render it inoperable. This is accomplished by turning the key to position one, then back quickly five times in one row. Then, you turn it back to zero and then take off the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a convenient way 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 much more. It also lets you share the key with up to five others.
The key fob connects to the vehicle via encrypted signals. It is therefore difficult for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. Additionally 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 uses an alarm built-in to stop unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.
BMW offers a variety of security options that can be added. Passive Start is one such feature that disables the starter motor when the key fob does not remain within close proximity to your vehicle. This feature is offered in all models of the brand and gives you peace of mind.
A lot of the more sophisticated BMW models come with keyless access that allows drivers to enter and start the vehicle without having to manually push any buttons or insert an actual key. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button of the fob in just one second. In certain situations, you might have to press the lock on the fob three times to activate a remote start feature on the dashboard or steering wheel.
Some people choose to carry their BMW key fob in a pouch that blocks signals which minimizes the possibility of a third party broadcasting the signal that identifies the fob and using it to gain access to the car. Others prefer to use a standard key case, which does not have this feature, but it will protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals who used signal amplifiers to boost the identifying signals. This type of attack, known as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob into an area that blocks signals, or by installing an app on your phone to block signals.
Replacement
Everyone has experienced this - the battery in your BMW key fob fails or you need to buy a spare one for a family. Thankfully, getting a replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is simple and affordable. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths can sell you a replacement key fob. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650 based on the model of BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob to your BMW first, make sure that there is no other key in the ignition. It is also recommended to shut all doors inside your vehicle. After that, insert the new key fob into the ignition and move it to position 1 before turning return to position 0 five times in rapid succession. 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 will unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you could either have a key blade in your key fob or that isn't. The procedure for syncing new fobs with your car is different for each one, but the steps are similar. The only difference is that a key fob that has a metal key in it will need to be put into the ignition when you are ready to start your car.
If you own an BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even easier. Once you have programmed your new key fob in your BMW and inserted it into the ignition and press start.
It is essential to keep your BMW key fob in working in good working order. If you are looking for a new BMW key fob, or a replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you find the right key fob to your vehicle and can upgrade your BMW with a Comfort Access upgrade to allow keyless entry and engine starting.