What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have an BMW you are likely to find that your key fob has many functions. It can be used for a variety of purposes, including unlocking your doors, controlling your windows and even starting your engine.
But there are some hidden tricks that you might not be aware of. Here are a few of the best.
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, but some have additional functions. For instance, BMW owners can activate an invisible function on their key fob to lower all their windows at once by pressing the unlock button twice. This is ideal for those who want to cool their car during a hot summer's day.
Another major purpose of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This feature is a safety measure that prevents 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 the circular arrow. For newer BMW models, this feature can also be used to remotely start the vehicle. This is particularly useful when the driver is running late for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car to open the door.
The BMW key fob also has the capability of controlling the interior climate system. This is particularly convenient for those who travel with multiple individuals as each key fob can be used to set the temperature of each person. If you own a hybrid BMW key fob, it can be used to determine the status of charging the vehicle's battery.
Dropping them into water is not recommended. It is best to store the key fob inside its case that is protected when it is not in use. If you have lost your key fob, we can offer a service which will deactivate the device, rendering it useless to thieves. Contacting the dealer or one of our technicians will do this. You can buy a replacement BMW key fob to re-establish the functionality of your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were once large, clunky rectangles of black that from a distance looked like a bottle-opener. They were basic, but they served a purpose. Then BMW started to make them smaller and put an aluminum case around the base of the key, which made it look more attractive and less resemble an opener for bottles. The new design also reduced rough edges on the keys that could poke into bags or pockets and made keys easier for you to hold.
BMW then introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your palm. 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. 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 with a BMW Digital Key. Just use your compatible smartphone to replace the BMW key fob and unlock your vehicle! This feature is only available to BMW vehicles made after 2021 using the iDrive 8 system.
The Connected Remote key is another cool new key from BMW that allows you to start your vehicle and operate certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to control your car’s climate control and check the battery level. You can even check how much gas you have 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 the 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 choose to purchase an BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the costs of a replacement in the event that your keys get lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing you need to do is reset the key. This will erase all programming and render it inoperable. This is accomplished by turning the key from position one, then back in quick succession, five times in a row. Then you can turn the key to position zero and remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. The fob works with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle and start the engine and more. It also allows you to 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. In addition, the UWB technology used in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even if the fob is in motion while it's being transported. The system also incorporates a built-in alarm to prevent unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.
BMW also provides a variety of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob isn't near to the car. This feature is available on a variety of BMW models and can provide additional peace of mind.
BMW's most advanced models come with keyless entry, which allows drivers access and 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 a single second. In certain situations it may be necessary to press the lock button on the fob three times and then activate the remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people keep their BMW keyfob in a pouch that blocks signals. This minimizes the risk of a third-party broadcasting identification code from the fob to gain access to the car. Others prefer to use an ordinary key case which does not have this feature, but can protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars were stolen by criminals who bmw key simply utilized a signal amplifier in order to increase the signal that identifies. This kind 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 smartphone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery dies, or you need an extra battery for a family member. Thankfully, getting the replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and affordable. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can offer you the replacement key fob. A new key fob will typically cost 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 is no other key in the ignition. It is also recommended to shut the doors of your vehicle. After that, insert your new key fob in the ignition and switch it to position 1 and back to position 0 five times quickly. Press the unlock button and quickly press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, remove your key and turn the car on. The doors will unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you could have a key blade in your key fob, or that isn't. The process for syncing new fobs with your car differs for each however, the steps are nearly identical. The only difference is the metal key fob needs to be inserted in the ignition to begin your car.
If you have a BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process is even simpler. After you have programmed the new key fob, simply connect it to the ignition of your car and press the start button.
It is crucial to maintain your BMW key fob in good in good working order. Patrick BMW's parts department can help you find a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you find the right key fob for your car and can upgrade your BMW with a Comfort Access upgrade to enable keyless entry as well as engine starting.