What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?

Your BMW key fob is likely to have numerous functions. It can be used for a variety of purposes, including unlocking your doors, adjusting your windows, and even starting the engine.

There are a few tricks you may not know about. Let's take a look some of the most useful ones.

Functions

The BMW key fob is a tiny, rectangular piece of plastic that has a number of buttons integrated into its side. Most of these buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, but certain buttons have additional functions. BMW owners, for instance can activate a hidden function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is perfect for those who wish to cool their vehicle on a hot summer day.

The BMW key fob can be used to start your vehicle. This is a wonderful security measure and blocks unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, drivers must first press the lock button on the key fob and then press the circular arrow. For the latest BMW models it can be used to remotely start the vehicle. This feature is particularly useful when a driver is late to work and doesn't have the time to pull the door.

Finally lastly, the BMW key fob can also be utilized to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is particularly convenient for those traveling with multiple individuals as each key fob can be used to determine the preferred temperature for each person. For those who have hybrid BMW key fob, it can be used to determine the state of charge of the vehicle's battery.

While the standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of water, dropping them into water can cause significant damage. It is recommended to keep the key fob inside its case of protection when not in use. If you do lose the key fob, a replacement can be provided that will deactivate it, making it unusable for thieves. Contacting the dealer or our technicians will be able to do this. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob can then be purchased to restore full functionality to your car.

Design

BMW key fobs were once huge, clunky rectangular shapes in black that, from a distance, looked like a bottle-opener. They were simple, but functional. Then BMW began to make them smaller and put a plastic case around the base of the key that made it appear more elegant and a little less like a bottle opener. The new design also reduced rough edges on the key that could get into pockets or bags and made keys easier to hold.

BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your hands. It allows you to lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and view vehicle information on a small touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!

If you're in need of an alternative, you can get the same functionality and features by using a BMW Digital Key. Just use your compatible smartphone to replace the BMW key fob and then unlock your car! This feature is available for 2021 and newer BMW vehicles that are equipped with the iDrive 8 operating system.

Another new and exciting key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which allows you to start your vehicle and operate certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control your car's climate control, check battery levels, and more! You can see the amount of fuel left in your car if it has this feature.

The process of replacing the BMW Digital Key is the same whether you're using the traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. You'll need to bring your working key and the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will help you with everything. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection Plan, which covers the cost of replacement if 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 unusable. This is done five times by quickly shifting the key from position one to zero and back. Then, turn it to zero and then take off the ignition.

Security

The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. The fob pairs with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle or start the engine and more. It also allows you to share the key with up to five others.

The key fob communicates encrypted signals with the vehicle. This makes it impossible for hackers to steal and replicate the signal. Additionally the UWB read more technology in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even if the fob is in motion when it is being transported. The system utilizes an alarm to stop unauthorised starting and disables the ignition switch.

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 provides additional peace of mind.

Many of the more advanced BMW models offer keyless access which allows drivers to enter and start the vehicle without having to manually push any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature can be activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob in just one second. In certain situations, you might need to press the lock on the fob three times to activate a remote start feature on the steering wheel or dashboard.

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

Some BMW owners reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals who used signal amplifiers to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This type of attack is known as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping your key fob in a signal-blocking pocket or by installing a signal blocker app on your phone.

Replacement

It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you need a spare for a family member. Fortunately, finding a replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and inexpensive. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths can sell you a replacement key fob. A new key fob will typically cost between $400 and $650, based on the model of BMW you drive.

To program a new key fob to your BMW first, ensure that there is no other key in the ignition. It is also recommended to shut all doors in your vehicle. Put your new key fob in the ignition, then quickly turn it from position 1 to 0, and back to position 1. Hold down the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. Once you have completed this, take off the key and turn on the car. The vehicle's doors unlock and lock. This indicates that the new key fob was successfully programmed.

Depending on the model of your car, you could either have a key blade in your key fob, or without. The process for syncing new fobs to your vehicle is different for each however the steps are almost identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob needs to be put in the ignition to begin your car.

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

While your BMW is a great way to travel around Decatur however, it is vital to keep your key fob in good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department can assist you locate a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you locate the perfect key fob for your vehicle and even upgrade your BMW by introducing an upgrade to Comfort Access to enable keyless entry and engine starting.