A Comprehensive Guide To BMW Key Fob. Ultimate Guide To BMW Key Fob
A Comprehensive Guide To BMW Key Fob. Ultimate Guide To BMW Key Fob
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What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own an BMW you are likely to find that your key fob is equipped with numerous functions. It can be used for many things, including unlocking your doors, adjusting your windows, and even starting the engine.
But there are some hidden tricks that you might not know about. Here are a few of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob consists of a small rectangle of plastic with a number buttons embedded into its side. Most of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, but some have additional functions. For instance, BMW owners can activate an in-built 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 want to cool their vehicle on a hot summer's day.
Another significant benefit of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the vehicle. This feature is a great security precaution that prevents unauthorised entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver must press the lock button on the key fob, then press the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to start the vehicle remotely. This feature is especially beneficial when a driver is late for work and does not have time to open the door.
Lastly, the BMW key fob can be used to control the car's interior climate system. This is particularly useful for those who travel with multiple individuals, as it's possible to set each person's preferred temperature with their own key fob. For those who have a hybrid BMW key fob, it can be used to determine the state of charge of the battery of the vehicle.
Dropping them into water is not recommended. It is best to store the key fob in its case that is protected when it is not in use. If you have lost your key fob, we can provide a service that will deactivate the device, rendering it useless to thieves. Contacting our dealer or technicians will be able to do this. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob can be purchased to restore full functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were big, clunky black rectangles that looked like an opener for bottles from a distance. They were simple, but functional. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it look better and less like the key opener. The new design also trimmed the rough edges of the keys that could poke through bags or pockets and made keys easier to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the features of your car in your hand. It lets you lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and display the information about your vehicle on a tiny LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. It even offers remote parking on hybrid models!
If you're in need of a replacement, you can get the same great functionality by using a BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your car using your smartphone provided you have an appropriate model. This feature is available on 2021 or more recent BMW vehicles that are equipped with the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another exciting new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which allows you to start your car and control certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely manage your car's climate control and check battery levels and much more! You can check how much fuel is left in your car, if it's equipped with this feature.
No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting a replacement is similar. Our technicians will help you with the process when you bring both your old key and the new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase an BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover replacement costs if your keys get lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first step is to reset the key, which will erase any programming it has and make it unusable. This is done by turning the key from position one and back in quick succession, five times in a row. Then switch the key until it is at zero and remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a convenient way to start your vehicle. The fob pairs with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle, start the engine, and more. You can also share the key with five others.
The key fob communicates with vehicle using encrypted signals. It is therefore difficult for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. In addition the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even if the fob is moving when it is being transported. The system also has an inbuilt alarm system to block unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch which is a frequent 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 within close proximity to the car. This feature is available on many BMW models and offers an additional level of security.
BMW's more sophisticated models include keyless entry that allows users to 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 of the fob within one second. In some cases you may need to press the lock on the fob three times to activate the remote start feature on the steering wheel or dashboard.
Some people keep their BMW keyfob in a pouch that blocks signals. This reduces the chance that a third party broadcasts the identification code from the fob in order to gain access to the vehicle. Some prefer a standard key case, which does not have this feature, but it will protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their vehicles have been stolen by criminals who simply employed a signal amplifier to increase the signal that identifies. This kind of attack, known as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob in a pocket that blocks signals or by using an app on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you need a spare for a family member. Luckily, purchasing the replacement BMW key fob and programming it to your car is simple and affordable. You can purchase the replacement from any dealership or locksmith that is authorized by BMW. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650, depending on the type BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob to your BMW first, make sure that there is no other key in the ignition. Also, close all doors inside your vehicle. Place your new key fob into the ignition, then quickly change it from position 1 to position 0, and back again. Then, hold down the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you have finished this, take off your key and turn the vehicle on. The doors will unlock and lock, which indicates that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you may have a key fob that has an actual key blade in it, or here a key fob without one. Each key fob has its own method of synchronizing with your car, however the steps for each are almost identical. The only difference is the metal key fob needs to be placed in the ignition to begin your vehicle.
If you own a BMW equipped 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 maintain your BMW key fob in good condition. If you're in search of a new BMW key fob, or a replacement for your existing one, contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you choose the correct key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.