What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own an BMW you are likely to find that your key fob has numerous functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, operate your windows, and even start the engine.
There are some tricks that you might not know about. Let's take a look some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangle of plastic with a number buttons embedded into its sides. Most of these buttons unlock and lock the car, but a few are distinctive. For instance, BMW owners can activate an in-built function on the key fob to lower all their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is a great option for those who want to cool their vehicle during a hot summer's day.
Another significant purpose of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This is a wonderful safety precaution and prevents unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the car, the driver must first press the lock on the key fob and then the circular arrow. For the latest BMW models it can be used to remotely start the vehicle. This feature is especially beneficial when a driver is running late to work and doesn't have time to open the door handle.
Lastly, the BMW key fob can be used to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is especially helpful for those who travel with multiple individuals as each key fob can be used to set the temperature for each person. If you have a hybrid BMW key fob, it can be used to check the charging status of the battery of the vehicle.
While the standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of water, dropping them into water can cause serious damage. It's best to keep the key fob in a secure case when not in use. If you lose 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 be able to do this. You can buy a replacement BMW key fob to restore your car's functionality.
Design
BMW key fobs were once big rectangular black pieces that looked like a bottle opener from the distance. They were basic, but useful. BMW then made them smaller and also added a plastic casing around the base to make it look better and less like a key opener. The new design also trimmed rough edges on the key that could get into bags or pockets and made keys more comfortable to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the functions of your vehicle in your hand. The BMW key fob comes with an LCD screen which allows you to lock and unlock your car, control the air conditioning and view the vehicle's information. Even hybrid models have remote parking!
BMW Digital Keys are an excellent replacement if you need to replace your BMW key fob. You can unlock your vehicle by using your smartphone, when you own an appropriate model. This feature is only available for BMW vehicles built after 2021 that use the iDrive 8 system.
The Connected Remote key is a innovative key from BMW that lets you start your vehicle and operate certain features using your smartphone. The app allows you to control the climate control of your car and monitor battery levels. You can even check how much gas is left in your tank, should your car be equipped with this feature.
No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process of obtaining an 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 an BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the cost of a replacement in the event that your keys are stolen or lost.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing you have to do is reset the key. This will erase all programming and render it useless. This is done by turning the key from position one and then back in rapid 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 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, start the engine, and much more. You can also share the key with five others.
The key fob communicates with the vehicle using encrypted signals. It is therefore difficult for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. Additionally to this, the UWB technology used in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even if the fob is moving while it's being carried. The system utilizes an alarm to stop unauthorised starting and disables ignition switch.
BMW also offers a range of optional security features, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob is not in close proximity to the vehicle. This feature is offered on a number of BMW models and can provide additional peace of mind.
A number of the more advanced BMW models offer keyless access, which allows drivers to enter and start the vehicle without having manually use any buttons or insert the physical key. This feature is typically activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times within one second. In some cases it may be necessary to press the button to lock the fob three times to then activate the remote start feature in the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people choose to carry their BMW key fob in a pouch that blocks signals that reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting the signal that identifies the fob and allowing access to the car. Others prefer to use an ordinary key case that does not come with this feature, but it will protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their cars were stolen by criminals using an amplifier for signal strength to boost the identifying signals. This type of attack, referred to as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob in pockets that block signals, or by installing an app on your phone to block signals.
Replacement
It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery fails or you need an extra battery for your family member. Luckily, purchasing an alternative BMW key fob and programming it to your car is easy and inexpensive. You can buy the replacement from any dealership or locksmith who is authorized by BMW. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650, based on the type of BMW you drive.
Make sure that there isn't other ignition key in your BMW before you begin programming a new keyfob. Close all doors of your vehicle. After that, insert the new key fob into the ignition and switch it to position 1 before turning return to position 0 five times quickly. Hold the unlock button and quickly press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, remove your key and turn your car on. You should hear the doors unlock and lock, indicating that your bmw spare key new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the car model You may have an ignition key fob with a key blade that is physically inside it, or a key fob that doesn't have one. The process of synchronizing new fobs with your car differs for each, but the steps are similar. The only difference is that the key fob that has a metal key in it needs to be placed in the ignition whenever you want to start the car.
If you have a BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even easier. Once you have programmed your new key fob in your BMW then, you can insert it into the ignition and press start.
It is important to ensure that your BMW key fob in good in good working order. If you're in search of an entirely new BMW key fob or a replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you select the right key fob and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.