What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?

If you own an BMW it is likely that your key fob has numerous functions. You can use it to do a variety of things, such as unlocking your doors, controlling your windows and even starting your engine.

But there are some secrets you might not be aware of. Let's take a look at some of the most effective ones.

Functions

The BMW key fob is a small, rectangular piece of plastic that has a number of buttons integrated into its side. The majority of these buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, however some have additional functions. For example, BMW owners can activate an in-built function on their key fob to lower all their windows at once by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for people who wish to cool down their vehicle on the scorching summer days.

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

Finally lastly, the BMW key fob may also be used to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is particularly helpful for those who travel with multiple individuals, as it's 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 the battery's charging status.

While standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of humidity, dropping them into water can cause severe damage. For this reason, it's recommended to keep the key fob in a secure case when not in use. If you lose the key fob, a service can be offered to disable it, making it inaccessible to thieves. This can be done by calling the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob can be purchased to restore functionality to your car.

Design

BMW key fobs were once huge, clunky rectangular shapes in black that, from a distance, appeared like a bottle-opener. They were simple, but functional. BMW then made them smaller and also added a plastic casing around the base to make it appear more attractive and less like an opener for keys. The new design also reduced the rough edges of the key that could poke into bags or pockets, and made the keys easier for you to hold.

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

BMW Digital Keys are a fantastic replacement if you need to replace the BMW key fob. Simply use your smartphone to replace the BMW key fob and then unlock your car! This feature is only available for BMW vehicles built after 2021 with the iDrive 8 system.

The Connected Remote key is a cool new key from BMW that lets you start your car and control certain functions using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely control your car's climate control and check battery levels and more! You can check the amount of fuel left in your car, if it's equipped with this feature.

If you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process of obtaining an replacement is the same. You'll have to bring your original key and the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will help you with everything. 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 erases any programming it has and render it inoperable. This is accomplished by turning the key to position one and then back in rapid succession five times in the same row. Then you can turn the key until it is at zero and remove it from the ignition.

Security

The BMW Digital Key is a convenient method to start your vehicle. The fob works with your Apple Watch or smartphone and is compatible with BMW Connected Drive. It allows you to unlock your vehicle and start the engine. It also lets you share the key with up to five others.

The key fob is encrypted and transmits signals with the vehicle. This makes it impossible for hackers to intercept and clone the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even if the device is in motion. The system also uses an inbuilt alarm system to block non-authorized starts and disables ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.

BMW offers a range of optional security features. Passive Start is one of them. It disables the starter motor if the key fob does remain in close proximity to your car. This feature is available on several models from the brand and provides additional peace of mind.

BMW's most advanced models come with keyless entry, which lets drivers to access their vehicle without having manually insert a key or push any buttons. This feature is usually activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times within one second. In some instances, you may need to press the lock button on the fob three times, and then turn on an additional remote start feature within the dashboard or on the steering wheel.

Some people keep their BMW key fob in a case that blocks signals. This reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting identifying code from the fob to gain access to the car. Some prefer using a standard case that does not come with the feature, but it does protect the fob from scratches.

A few BMW owners reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals who used a signal amplifier to boost 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 using an app that blocks signals on your phone.

Replacement

Everybody has experienced this: the battery in your BMW key fob fails or you need to buy an extra one for your family. Luckily, purchasing a replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and inexpensive. You can buy an alternative from any dealer or locksmith that is authorized by BMW. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650, depending on the kind 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. Close all doors in your vehicle. Then you'll need to insert your new key fob into the ignition and switch it to position 1 before turning return to position 0 five times quickly. Then, hold down the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. Once you have completed this, remove the key and switch on the car. The doors will unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.

Based on the car model depending on the model of your car, you could have an ignition key fob with a check here physical key blade inside it or a key fob that doesn't have one. Each fob has a different method of synchronizing with your vehicle, but the steps for each are nearly identical. 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 wish to start the car.

If you have an BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even simpler. After you have programmed an entirely new key fob simply connect it to the ignition of your car and press the start button.

It is crucial to keep your BMW key fob in working order. If you're in search of an entirely new BMW key fob or replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you locate the perfect key fob for your vehicle, and we can even upgrade your BMW by introducing a Comfort Access upgrade to allow keyless entry and engine starting.