What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?

If you have a BMW it is likely that your key fob is equipped with many functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, operate your windows, and even start your engine.

There are a few secrets you might not know about. Here are some of the most effective.

Functions

The BMW key fob consists of an incredibly small 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. BMW owners, for example can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for those who wish to cool down their car in the heat of summer.

The BMW key fob can be used to start your car. This is a wonderful security precaution that prevents unauthorised entry into the vehicle. To start the car, the driver has to first press 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 particularly useful when the driver is running late to work and does not have time to turn the door.

The BMW key fob also has the capability of controlling the internal climate system. This is particularly useful for those who travel with multiple people, since it is possible to set each individual's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. If you own hybrid BMW, the key fob can be used to monitor the charging status of the battery in the vehicle.

Dropping them in water is not recommended. It's best to store the key fob inside its protective case when not in use. If you have lost your key fob, we can provide a service that will disable the device, rendering it useless to thieves. Contacting the dealer or one of our technicians will do this. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob can then be purchased to restore functionality to your vehicle.

Design

BMW key fobs were once huge, clunky rectangular shapes in 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 plastic case around the key's base that made it appear more elegant and a little less like the bottle opener. 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.

Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the functions of your vehicle in the palm of your hand. It allows you to lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and view the vehicle's information on a small touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!

If you're in need of an alternative, you can get the same functionality and features by using a BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your vehicle using your smartphone if you have an appropriate model. This feature is only available to BMW vehicles manufactured after 2021 that use the iDrive 8 system.

The Connected Remote key is another innovative key from BMW that allows you to start your vehicle and operate certain features using your smartphone. The app allows you to control your car’s climate control and check battery levels. You can also see how much fuel remains in your car if it has this feature.

The procedure for replacing a BMW Digital Key is the same, whether you use an old-fashioned key or a BMW Digital Key. Our technicians will help you with 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 pay for the cost of a replacement in the event that your keys get 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 erases all programming and render it unusable. This is done five times by rapidly shifting the key from one position to zero and back. Then, you turn it back to zero and then take off 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, start the engine, and much more. It also lets you 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. In addition 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 carried. The system employs an alarm to stop unauthorised starting and disables the ignition switch.

BMW offers a variety of security options that can be added. Passive Start is one of them. It disables the starter motor if the key fob does remain within close proximity to your car. This feature is available on several models from the brand and gives you security.

A lot of the more sophisticated BMW models offer keyless access, which lets drivers enter and start the vehicle without having manually push any buttons or insert the physical key. This feature is typically activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times within one second. In some instances it is possible to press the lock button on the fob three times and then switch on the remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.

Some people carry their BMW key fob in a pouch that blocks signals, which reduces the risk of a third party broadcasting the identifying signal from the fob and using it to access the car. Some prefer the standard key case which doesn't have this feature, but can protect the fob from scratches.

A few BMW owners have reported that their vehicles have been taken by criminals who just employed a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signal. This type of attack is referred to as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping your key fob in a signal-blocking pocket or by using a signal blocker app on your phone.

Replacement

It happens to everyone It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you need a spare for your family member. It's easy and affordable to purchase a new BMW fob and then program it into your vehicle. You can purchase a replacement from any dealership or locksmith that is authorized by BMW. A new key fob costs 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 begin programming the new keyfob. Also, close all doors in your vehicle. Then, insert your new key fob into the ignition and switch it to position 1 and return to position 0 five times quickly. 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. You should hear the doors unlock and lock, which indicates that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.

Based on the model of your car, you may either have a key blade inside your key fob, or that isn't. The procedure for syncing new fobs to your vehicle is different for bmw replacement key fob each one, but the steps are almost identical. The only difference is that the fob that has a metal key inside will need to be placed in the ignition whenever you want to start the car.

If you own an BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process is even simpler. After you've programmed an entirely new key fob simply insert it into the ignition of your BMW and press the start button.

It is important to maintain your BMW key fob in good in good working order. Patrick BMW's parts department can assist you locate a new BMW fob or replacement. We can assist you in selecting the best key fob for your needs and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.