Are You Making The Most From Your BMW Key Fob?
What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?If you have a BMW, chances are that your key fob has numerous functions. It can be used to do a variety of things, such as unlocking your doors, controlling your windows, and even starting the engine.
However, there are some hidden tricks that you might not have heard of. Here are a few of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob is an incredibly small piece of plastic with several buttons incorporated into its side. Most of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, however certain buttons have additional functions. For instance, BMW owners can activate an in-built function on the key fob to lower all of their windows at once by pressing the unlock button two times. This is perfect for those looking to cool off their car during a hot summer day.
The BMW key fob can also be used to start your car. This is a wonderful security measure and blocks unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver has to press the lock button on the key fob, then press the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to remotely start the car. This is especially useful in situations where the driver is running late for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car and open the door.
Additionally, the BMW key fob can also be utilized to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is especially useful for people who travel with several people since each key fob can be used to set the temperature for each individual. If you own a hybrid BMW key fob can be used to check the charging status of the battery in the vehicle.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. It is best to store the key fob in its protective case when it is not in use. If you lose the key fob, a solution can be provided that will disable it, making it useless for thieves. This can be done by contact with the dealer or one of our technicians. You can buy a replacement BMW key fob to restore the functionality of 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 functional. Then BMW started to make them a little smaller and put a case made of plastic around the base of the key that made it look more attractive and less like the bottle opener. The new design also trimmed rough edges on the key which could pierce bags or pockets and made keys easier to hold.
BMW then introduced the Display Key which puts all the features of your vehicle in your palm. It lets you lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and display vehicle information on a small LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!
If you're in need of a replacement for your BMW Digital Key, you can enjoy the same functionality and features with the BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your vehicle using your smartphone provided you have a compatible model. This feature is only available to BMW vehicles made after 2021 using the iDrive 8 system.
The Connected Remote key is a cool new key from BMW that lets you start your car and control certain features using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely manage your car's climate control and check battery levels and more! You can even check how much gas is left in your tank, in the event that your car is equipped with that feature.
The process of replacing the BMW Digital Key is the same regardless of whether you're using the traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. Our experts will assist you in the process if you bring your old key and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also choose to purchase an BMW Key Protection plan, which will pay for the cost of a replacement if your keys get stolen or lost.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing to do is reset the key. This will erase all programming and render it unusable. This is done five times, by changing the key from one position to zero and back. Then, turn the key until it is at zero and then remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. The fob is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the vehicle and start the engine. It also allows you to share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob connects to the vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it impossible for hackers to steal and clone the signal. Additionally to this, the UWB technology in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is moving when it is being transported. The system also has an alarm built-in to stop unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.
BMW also offers a variety of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob isn't in close proximity to the car. This feature is available on a variety of BMW models and provides an additional level of security.
BMW's more advanced models feature keyless entry, which lets drivers access and start their vehicle without having manually insert a key or press any buttons. This feature is typically activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times within one second. In certain situations, you might need to press the lock on the fob three times to activate the remote start feature on the steering wheel or dashboard.
Some people carry their BMW keyfob in a bag that blocks signals. This reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting the identification code from the fob to gain access to the vehicle. Some prefer using an ordinary case that does not have the feature, but it does protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars were stolen by criminals who used an amplifier for signal strength to boost the identifying signals. This type of attack, known as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing 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 an extra one for your family. Thankfully, getting the replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is simple and affordable. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can sell you an alternative key fob. A new key fob can 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. Close all doors in your vehicle. Then you'll need to bmw car keys replacement insert the new key fob into the ignition, and move it to position 1, then return to position 0 five times in rapid succession. Then, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. Once you have completed this, take off the key and switch on the car. You should hear your car's doors lock and unlock. This means that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Depending on your car model You may have a key fob that has a physical key blade inside it or a key fob that does not have one. Each key fob has its own method of synchronizing with your car, but the steps for each are identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob needs to be put into the ignition to start your vehicle.
If you have a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is even simpler. Once you have programmed your new key fob in your BMW then, you can insert it into the ignition and press start.
It is important to ensure that your BMW key fob in good in good working order. If you're in search of an entirely new BMW key fob, or a replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you choose the best key fob for your needs and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.