10 Things Everybody Hates About BMW Key Fob

What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?

Your BMW key fob probably has numerous functions. You can use it for many things, including opening your doors, controlling your windows and even starting your engine.

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

Functions

The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic with a number of buttons integrated into its side. Most of these buttons unlock and lock the car however, a few are unique. BMW owners, for example, can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is ideal for those who wish to cool down their vehicle on a hot summer's day.

Another major function of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the vehicle. This is a wonderful security measure and blocks unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the car, the driver must first push the lock on the key fob and then the circular arrow. For newer BMW models the feature can be used to remotely start the vehicle. This feature is especially useful when the driver is late for work and does not have time to turn the door.

Additionally, the BMW key fob may also be used to control the car's interior climate system. This is especially convenient for those who travel with multiple people, as it is possible to set each person's preferred temperature using their own key fob. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to check on the battery's charge status.

While standard BMW key fobs can handle normal levels of water, dropping them into water can cause serious damage. This is why it's a good idea to keep the key fob in a protective case when not in use. If you happen to lose the key fob, a replacement can be offered to disable it, rendering it inaccessible to thieves. Contacting the dealer or our technicians will be able to do this. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob can be purchased to restore functionality to your vehicle.

Design

BMW key fobs were once large, clunky rectangles of black that, from a distance, appeared like a bottle opener. They were simple, but useful. Then BMW began to make them a little smaller and also added a case made of plastic around the key's base that made it look more attractive and less resemble the bottle opener. This new design also reduced the rough edges of keys that could pierce pockets or bags and made the keys easier to hold.

BMW then introduced the Display Key which puts all the features of your vehicle in your palm. The BMW key fob features small LCD screens that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, operate the air conditioning and display vehicle information. It even offers remote parking on hybrid models!

BMW Digital Keys are a fantastic replacement if you need to replace your BMW key fob. You can unlock your car with your smartphone if you have an appropriate model. This feature is available on 2021 and newer BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.

Another exciting new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which allows you to start your vehicle and use certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control the climate control of your car as well as check the battery level and more! You can even see how much gas is left in your tank, if the car is equipped with this feature.

No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process of obtaining the replacement is the same. Our experts will assist you with the process when you bring your old key and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also choose to purchase a BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the cost of a replacement if your keys get 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 on it and render it useless. This is done by turning the key from position one and back quickly five times in a row. Then you can turn the key until it is at zero and take it out of the ignition.

Security

The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. The fob is compatible with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle, start the engine, and much more. It also allows you to share the key with up to five other people.

The key fob is encrypted and transmits signals with the vehicle. This makes it difficult for hackers to steal and replicate the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents relay attacks even if it is moving. The system uses an alarm to prevent unauthorized starting and disables ignition switch.

BMW also offers a range of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob isn't in close proximity to the car. This feature is available on many of the brand's models and gives you security.

A lot of the more sophisticated BMW models have keyless access that allows drivers to get in and start the vehicle without having manually press any buttons or insert an actual key. This feature can be activated by pressing three times on the lock button of the fob in a single second. In some instances, you may have to press the lock on the fob three times to activate a remote start feature on the dashboard or steering wheel.

Some people keep their BMW keyfob in a bag that blocks signals. This reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting the unique code that is on the fob in order to gain access to the car. Others prefer to use the standard key case that does not come with this feature but will still protect the fob from scratches.

Some BMW owners have reported that their cars have been taken by thieves who used a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signal. This kind of attack is known as "Relay Attack" and can be avoided by keeping the key fob in a signal blocking pocket or by using 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 require an extra battery for someone in your family. Fortunately, finding an alternative BMW key fob and programming it into your car is simple and affordable. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can sell you an alternative key fob. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650 depending on the type BMW you drive.

Make sure there is no other ignition key in your BMW before you begin programming the new keyfob. Close all the doors of your vehicle. Then, insert your new key fob in the ignition and switch it to position 1 and return to position 0 five times quickly. 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 get more info car. The vehicle's doors lock and unlock. This indicates that the new key fob was successfully programmed.

Based on the model of your car, you could either have a key blade inside your key fob or that isn't. The procedure for syncing new fobs with your car is different for each, but the steps are nearly identical. The only difference is the metal key fob will need to be put into the ignition to start your car.

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

It is essential to ensure that your BMW key fob in working condition. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you locate a new BMW fob or replacement. We can help you choose the correct key fob and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.