What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?

Your BMW key fob probably has many functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, manage your windows and even start the engine.

There are a few tricks you might not be aware of. Here are a few of the most effective.

Functions

The BMW key fob is a small, rectangular piece of plastic with several buttons incorporated into its side. The majority of the buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, but some have additional functions. BMW owners, for example, can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is perfect for those who want to cool their vehicle during a hot summer day.

The BMW key fob can also be used to start your vehicle. This feature is a great safety precaution and prevents unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver must press the lock button on the key fob and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to remotely start the car. This feature is especially beneficial when a driver is running late to work and does not have the time to pull the door handle.

The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the internal climate system. This is especially helpful for those who travel with multiple people since each key fob is able to determine the preferred temperature for each person. For those who have a hybrid BMW, the key fob can be used to monitor the status of charging the battery of the vehicle.

While the standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of moisture, dropping them in water can cause severe damage. This is why it's best to keep the key fob in a safe case when not in use. If you lose the key fob, a replacement is available to disable it, making it inaccessible to thieves. This can be done by calling the dealer or one of our technicians. You can buy a replacement BMW key fob to repair your car's functionality.

Design

BMW key fobs were once huge black, clunky rectangles that looked kind of like an open bottle from a distance. They were simple, but useful. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it look more attractive and less like the key opener. This new design also reduced the rough edges of the key which could pierce 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 your hand. The BMW key fob comes with small LCD screens that lets you lock and unlock your car, control the air conditioning, and access the information about your vehicle. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!

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

Another cool new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that allows you to start your vehicle and operate certain features using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control your car’s climate control and monitor battery levels. You can even see how much gas you have left in your tank should your car be equipped with that feature.

Whether you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting an replacement is the same. Our technicians will help you in the process if you bring both your old key and the new one to Patrick BMW. You can also choose to purchase an BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the costs of a replacement in the event that keys get 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 inoperable. This is accomplished by turning the key from position one, then back quickly, five times in one row. Then, you turn it back 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 and start the engine and much more. It also allows you to share the key with up to five other people.

The key fob communicates with the vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it difficult for hackers to intercept and clone the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even when it is moving. The system employs an alarm to stop unauthorised starting and disables ignition switch.

BMW also offers a key for bmw variety of optional security features, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob isn't within close proximity to the car. This feature is offered on a number of BMW models and provides additional peace of mind.

A lot of the more sophisticated BMW models have keyless access which lets drivers enter and start the vehicle without having manually push any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob within one second. In certain situations, you might have to press the fob's lock 3 times in order to activate a remote start feature on the dashboard or steering wheel.

Some people carry their BMW key fob in a case that blocks signals. This minimizes the risk of a third-party broadcasting identifying code from the fob in order to gain access to the car. Some people prefer to use a standard case, which does not come with the feature, but it does protect the fob against scratches.

Some BMW owners have reported that their vehicles were stolen by thieves who utilized a signal amplifier in order to boost the identifying signal. This kind of attack, also known as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob in an area that blocks signals, or by installing an app on your smartphone to block signals.

Replacement

Everyone has experienced this - the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you have to purchase another one for your family. Luckily, purchasing the replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is simple and affordable. You can buy an alternative from any dealer or locksmith who is authorized by BMW. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650 depending on the model of BMW you drive.

Make sure that there isn't other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming a new keyfob. Also, close all doors inside your vehicle. Put your new key fob into the ignition and swiftly change it from position 1 to 0, and then back again. Press the unlock button, then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, remove the key and then turn on the vehicle. The doors will unlock and lock, which indicates that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.

Depending on your car model You may have an ignition key fob with an actual key blade in it, or a fob without one. The process for syncing new fobs to your vehicle is different for each one however, the steps are nearly identical. The only difference is the metal key fob will need to be inserted into the ignition to start your car.

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

It is crucial to maintain your BMW key fob in good order. If you're looking for a new BMW key fob, or a replacement for your existing one, contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. 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.