What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?

If you have a BMW you are likely to find that your key fob comes with numerous functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, control your windows, and even start the engine.

But there are some secrets you might not be aware of. Here are some of the most effective.

Functions

The BMW key fob consists of a small rectangular piece of plastic that has a number buttons embedded into its side. The majority of these buttons unlock and lock the car, but a few are unique. For example, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on the key fob to lower all of their windows at once by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for those who want to cool their vehicle on the summer heat.

Another major purpose of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This feature is a great safety precaution and prevents 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 car. This feature is especially beneficial when a driver is running late to work and does not have time to open the door handle.

The BMW key fob also has the capability of controlling the internal climate system. This is particularly convenient for those traveling with multiple people since each key fob can be used to determine the preferred temperature for each person. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to check the battery's charging status.

Dropping them in water is not recommended. It's best to keep the key fob in a protective case when not in use. If you lose your key fob, we can offer a solution which will deactivate the device, rendering it useless to thieves. This can be accomplished by calling 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 big black, clunky rectangles that looked like a bottle opener from the distance. They were simple, but functional. Then BMW started to make them more compact and added an aluminum case around the key's base that made it look more attractive and less like an opener for bottles. The new design also trimmed the rough edges of the key which could pierce pockets or bags and made keys easier for you to hold.

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

BMW Digital Keys are an excellent alternative if you want to replace your BMW key fob. You can use any smartphone compatible to replace the BMW key fob and unlock your car! This feature is only available on BMW vehicles manufactured after 2021 that use the iDrive 8 system.

Another exciting new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that lets you start your car and control some of its features with your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control your car's climate control as well as check the battery level and much more! You can see the amount of fuel left in your car if it has this feature.

No matter 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 assist you with everything. You can also purchase the BMW Key Protection Plan, which covers the cost of replacement in the event that your keys are 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 inoperable. This is accomplished five times by quickly shifting the key from position one to zero and back. Then, turn the key until it is at zero and remove it from the ignition.

Security

The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. The fob pairs 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 vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it difficult for hackers to intercept and clone the signal. Additionally to this, the UWB technology used in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even if the fob is in motion when it is being transported. The system also uses a built-in alarm to prevent unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch which is a frequent target for thieves.

BMW offers a range of security features that are available as an option. Passive Start is one of them. It will disable the starter motor if the key fob does remain close to your car. This feature is available in many of the brand's models and provides additional security.

BMW's more sophisticated models include keyless entry, which lets users to start their vehicle without having to manually inserting a key or pressing any buttons. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob within one second. In some instances, you may need to press the fob's lock three times to activate a remote start feature on the dashboard or steering wheel.

Some people prefer to carry their BMW key fob in a pouch that blocks signals which minimizes the possibility of a third-party broadcasting the signal that identifies the fob and using it to access the car. Some people prefer to use a standard case that doesn't have this feature, but it still protects the fob against scratches.

A few BMW owners have reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals using a signal amplifier to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This type of attack, also known as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob in a pocket that blocks signals, or by utilizing an app on your phone to block signals.

Replacement

It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery fails or you require an extra battery for someone in your family. Fortunately, finding an alternative BMW key fob and programming it to your car is easy and inexpensive. You can purchase the replacement from any dealership or locksmith that is authorized by BMW. A new key fob is likely to cost between $400 and $650, depending on the type of BMW you drive.

Check to see if there is other ignition key in your BMW before you begin programming the new keyfob. Close all doors in your vehicle. Put your new key fob in the ignition, and quickly move it from position 1 to 0, and back again. Hold the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. Once you've completed this, take off the key and then turn on the vehicle. You should hear your vehicle's doors unlock and lock. This indicates that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.

Based on the car model You may have a key fob that has a physical key blade inside it, or a fob that doesn't have one. The procedure for syncing new fobs to your car differs for each however the steps are almost identical. The only difference is that the fob with a metal key in it will need to be inserted into the ignition when you wish to start the car.

If you have a BMW with Comfort Access the process is much 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 working condition. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you find a website new BMW fob or replacement. We can assist you in selecting the correct key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.