What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?

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

There are some tricks you might not know about. Here are some of the best.

Functions

The BMW key fob consists of a small rectangle of plastic that has a number buttons embedded in its side. The majority of these buttons allow you to lock and unlock your car, but a few are distinct. BMW owners, for instance, can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is ideal for people who wish to cool down their vehicle during a hot summer's day.

Another important purpose of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the vehicle. This feature is a great safety precaution and prevents unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver has to press the lock button on the key fob and then the circular arrow. For the latest BMW models the feature can be used to remotely start the car. This feature is particularly useful when the driver is running late to work and does not have time to open the door handle.

Additionally it is worth noting that the BMW key fob can be used to control the car's interior climate system. This is especially convenient for people who travel with multiple individuals, as it's possible to set each individual's preferred temperature with their own key fob. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to check on the battery's charging status.

While standard BMW key fobs can withstand normal levels of moisture, dropping them in water can cause severe damage. For this reason, it's best 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 our dealer or technicians will be able to do this. You can buy a replacement BMW key fob to restore the functionality of your vehicle.

Design

BMW key fobs were huge, clunky black rectangles that looked like an opener for bottles from a distance. They were simple, but useful. Then BMW began to make them smaller and put an aluminum case around the key's base that made it look nicer and less resemble an opener for bottles. This new design also reduced the rough edges of the keys which could puncture pockets or bags and made keys easier to hold.

Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all of your vehicle's functionality in your hand. The BMW key fob features a small LCD screen that allows you to lock and unlock your car, control the air conditioning and display the information about your vehicle. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!

If you're in need of a replacement key fob, you can have the same great functionality with the BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your car by using your smartphone, if you have an appropriate model. This feature is only available on BMW vehicles manufactured after 2021 that use the iDrive 8 system.

The Connected Remote key is another cool new key from BMW that lets you start your car and control certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to manage your car's climate control and check the battery level. You can even check how you've got gas left in your tank in the event that your car is equipped with that feature.

The procedure for replacing the BMW Digital Key is the same, whether you use a traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. Our technicians will help you with the process if you bring both your old key and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also choose to purchase a BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the costs of a replacement if 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 inoperable. This is accomplished five times, by shifting the key from position one to zero and back. Then, turn it to position zero and take off the ignition.

Security

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

The key fob communicates encrypted signals with the vehicle. It is therefore difficult for hackers and cloners, to intercept the signal. In addition, the UWB technology in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even when the fob is moving when it is being carried. The system employs an alarm to prevent unauthorized starting and disables the ignition switch.

BMW offers a range of security options that can be added. Passive Start is one such feature that disables the starter motor if the key fob doesn't remain within close proximity to your car. This feature is offered in several models from the brand and gives you peace of mind.

BMW's more advanced models feature keyless entry that allows users to start their vehicle without having to manually inserting a key or pressing any buttons. This feature is typically activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times in a single second. In certain situations it is possible to press the button to lock the fob three times to then turn on a separate remote start feature within the dashboard or on the steering wheel.

Some people carry their BMW key fob in a signal-blocking pouch, which reduces the risk of a third party broadcasting the signal that identifies the fob and allowing access to the car. Others prefer to use a standard key case, that does not come with this feature but will still protect the fob from scratches.

A few BMW owners have reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals using signal amplifiers to boost the identifying signals. This kind of attack, referred to as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob in a pocket that blocks signals or by using an app on your phone to block signals.

Replacement

It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you need an extra battery for someone in your family. It's easy and affordable to purchase a new BMW fob and then program it into your car. You can purchase a replacement from any dealership or locksmith who 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, ensure that there is no other key in the ignition. It is also recommended to shut all doors inside your vehicle. Insert your new key fob into the ignition, and quickly move it from position 1 to position zero, and then back again. Then, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you've completed this, remove your key and turn the vehicle on. The vehicle's doors unlock and lock. This means 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. Each one has a distinct 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 placed in the ignition whenever you wish to start the car.

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

It is important to ensure that your BMW key fob in working condition. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you find more info a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can assist you in selecting the correct key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.