What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?

Your BMW key fob is likely to have many functions. It can be used for many things, including unlocking your doors, controlling your windows and even starting your engine.

There are a few tricks you might not know about. Here are some of the most effective.

Functions

The BMW key fob is a tiny, rectangular piece of plastic, with a number of buttons integrated into its side. Most of them unlock and lock the car however, a few are distinct. BMW owners, for example can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for people who wish to cool down their car during the summer heat.

Another major benefit of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the vehicle. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver must first press the lock on the key fob and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to start the vehicle remotely. This feature is particularly useful when the driver is running late to work and does not have the time to pull the door handle.

The BMW key fob can also be used for controlling the internal climate system. This is particularly useful for those who travel with multiple people, as it is possible to set each individual's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to check on the battery's charging status.

While the standard BMW key fobs can handle normal levels of moisture, dropping them in water can cause severe damage. It's best to store the key fob inside its case that is protected when it is not in use. If you lose your key fob, we can offer a solution that will deactivate the device, rendering it inaccessible to thieves. This can be done by contact with the dealer or one of our technicians. You can purchase a replacement BMW key fob to restore your car's functionality.

Design

BMW key fobs were once huge, clunky rectangular shapes in black that, from a distance, looked like a bottle-opener. They were basic, but they served a purpose. Then BMW started to make them a little smaller and put an aluminum case around the base of the key, which made it look nicer and less like the bottle opener. This new design also reduced the rough edges of keys that could poke through bags or pockets, and made the keys easier to hold.

Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the features of your car in the palm of your hand. It lets you lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and view vehicle information on a small LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models come with remote parking!

BMW Digital Keys are an excellent replacement option if you have to replace your BMW key fob. Just use your compatible smartphone to replace the BMW key fob and then unlock your car! This feature is available on 2021 or newer BMW cars that use the iDrive 8 operating system.

Another new and exciting key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that allows you to start your vehicle and operate some of its features with your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely manage your car's climate control, check battery levels, and much more! You can also see 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 regardless of whether you're using a traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. You'll have to bring the original key along with the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will help you with everything. You can also choose to purchase an BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the cost of a replacement if keys get stolen or lost.

If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first step is to reset the key, which erases any programming it has and make it unusable. This is done by turning the key to position one, then back in rapid succession, five times in one row. Then, turn it back to position zero and take off the ignition.

Security

The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. The fob works 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 others.

The key fob transmits encrypted signals to the vehicle. It is therefore extremely difficult for hackers and cloners to get the signal. In addition the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is moving when it is being transported. The system also has a built-in alarm to prevent unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.

BMW offers a variety of optional security features. Passive Start is one such feature that disables the starter motor when the key fob does not remain in close proximity to your car. This feature is offered in all models of the brand and provides additional peace of mind.

Many of the more advanced BMW models have keyless access that allows drivers to enter and start the vehicle without having manually use any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button of the fob in a single second. In some instances, you may need to press the fob's lock three times to activate a remote start feature on the steering wheel or dashboard.

Some people prefer to carry their BMW key fob in a signal-blocking pouch, which reduces the risk of a third party broadcasting the identification signal from the fob and using it to access the car. Some prefer using a standard case that does not have the feature, but it does protect the fob from scratches.

Some BMW owners have reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals using signal amplifiers to boost the identifying signals. This kind of attack, referred to as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob into an area that blocks signals, or by utilizing an app on your smartphone to block signals.

Replacement

Everyone has experienced this - the battery in your BMW key fob goes out or you have to purchase an extra one for your family. Thankfully, getting a replacement BMW key fob and programming it to your car is simple and affordable. You can buy a replacement from any dealership website or locksmith authorized by BMW. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650, depending on the type of BMW you drive.

To program a new key fob to your BMW first, ensure that there isn't another key in the ignition. It is also recommended to shut all doors in your vehicle. After that put your new key fob into the ignition and turn it to position 1 before turning back to position 0 five times rapidly. Hold the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, remove the key and switch on the vehicle. The vehicle's doors lock and unlock. This means that the new key fob was successfully programmed.

Based on the model of your car, you could have a key blade in your key fob or one that isn't. Each one has a distinct method of synchronizing with your vehicle, but the steps for each are nearly identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob has to be put into the ignition to start your car.

If you own a BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even more straightforward. Once you have programmed an entirely new key fob simply connect it to your BMW's ignition and press the start button.

While your BMW is a fantastic vehicle to travel around Decatur however, it is vital that you keep your key fob in a good condition. If you're in search of an updated BMW key fob or a replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you locate the perfect key fob for your car and even upgrade your BMW with an upgrade to Comfort Access to enable keyless entry as well as engine starting.