15 Reasons You Shouldn't Overlook BMW Key Fob
15 Reasons You Shouldn't Overlook BMW Key Fob
Blog Article
What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob is likely to have numerous functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, operate your windows, and even start the engine.
But there are some secrets you might not have heard of. Let's take a look some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is an incredibly small piece of plastic with many buttons incorporated into its sides. The majority of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, and some have additional functions. For example, BMW owners can activate an invisible function on the key fob to lower all of their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button two times. This is ideal for those who wish to cool down their vehicle on a hot summer's day.
Another major benefit 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 car, the driver must first press the lock on the key fob and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to remotely start the vehicle. This feature is particularly useful when a driver is late to work and doesn't have time to open the door handle.
Additionally, the BMW key fob can also be used to control the vehicle'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 temperatures with their individual key fob. If you own a hybrid BMW key fob, it can be used to check the state of charge of the vehicle's battery.
While standard BMW key fobs can handle normal levels of water, dropping them into 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 lose the key fob, a service can be offered to disable it, making it inaccessible to thieves. Contacting our dealer or technicians will be able to do this. You can purchase a new BMW key fob to repair your car's functionality.
Design
BMW key fobs were once huge black, clunky rectangles that looked kind of like an open bottle from a distance. They were basic, but they served a purpose. Then BMW started to make them a little smaller and also added an aluminum case around the base of the key that made it appear more elegant and a little less like a bottle opener. This new design also reduced rough edges on the keys which could pierce bags or pockets and made the keys more comfortable to hold.
BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your hand. It lets you lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and see the information about your vehicle on a tiny LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models come with remote parking!
BMW Digital Keys are a great replacement option if you have to replace the BMW key fob. You can unlock your vehicle with your smartphone provided you have an appropriate model. This feature is only available to BMW vehicles built after 2021 with the iDrive 8 system.
Another exciting new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that allows you to start your vehicle and operate certain functions using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely manage your car's climate control and check battery levels. You can also see how you've got gas left in your tank, in the event that your car is equipped with that feature.
Whether you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting the 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 will cover 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 to do is reset the key. This will erase all programming and render it useless. This is done five times, by shifting the key from one position 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 car. The fob works with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle or start the engine and more. It also allows you to share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob connects to the vehicle via encrypted signals. It is therefore extremely difficult for hackers and cloners to get the signal. Additionally the UWB technology in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even if the fob is in motion when it is being carried. The system also uses an inbuilt alarm system to block unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.
BMW offers a variety of optional security features. Passive Start is one such feature that disables the starter motor if the key fob doesn't remain close to your vehicle. This feature is available on many BMW models and can provide additional security.
BMW's most advanced models come with keyless entry that allows drivers access and start their vehicle without having to manually insert a key or push any buttons. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob in just one second. In some cases, you may need to press the button to lock the fob three times and then switch on a separate remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people choose to carry their BMW key fob in a pouch that blocks signals, which reduces the risk of a third party broadcasting the identification signal from the fob and allowing access to the car. Some prefer using a standard case that does not have the feature, but it still protects the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their cars were stolen by thieves who utilized a signal amplifier in order to increase the signal that identifies. 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 installing a signal blocker app on your phone.
Replacement
Everyone has experienced this - the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you'll need to purchase another one for your family. It's affordable and easy to purchase a replacement BMW fob, and then program it into your vehicle. You can buy an alternative from any dealer or locksmith that is authorized by BMW. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650 based on the type BMW you drive.
Make sure that there isn't other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming the new keyfob. It is also recommended to shut all doors in your vehicle. Then, insert your new key fob in the ignition and turn it to position 1 before turning return to position 0 five times rapidly. Then, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. Once you've completed this, take off your key and turn the vehicle on. The vehicle's doors unlock and lock. This means that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you may have a key blade in your key fob or one that isn't. Each key fob has its own process to sync with your car, however the steps for each are nearly identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob will need to be placed into the ignition to start your car.
If you have an BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even simpler. Once you have programmed your new key fob into your BMW and inserted it into the ignition and bmw keys press start.
While your BMW is a great way to get around Decatur, it is important that you keep your key fob in good condition. If you are looking for an updated BMW key fob or a replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you find the perfect key fob for your vehicle, and we can even upgrade your BMW with an upgrade to Comfort Access to allow keyless entry and engine starting.