What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?

If you own a BMW, chances are that your key fob has numerous functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, operate your windows and even start your engine.

There are a few tricks you may not know about. Let's take a look some of the most effective ones.

Functions

The BMW key fob consists of an incredibly small piece of plastic with many buttons incorporated into its sides. Most of these buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, and a few have more unique functions. For example, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on the key fob to lower all their windows at once by pressing the unlock button twice. This is a great option for those who want to cool down their car on a hot summer day.

Another major benefit of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver has to first push the lock on the key fob, and then press the circular arrow. For newer BMW models the feature can be used to remotely start the vehicle. This feature is especially beneficial when a driver is running late to work and does not have the time to pull the door.

The BMW key fob can also be used for controlling the internal climate system. This is particularly convenient for those traveling with multiple individuals as each key fob is able to set the preferred temperature for each individual. If you own a hybrid BMW key fob can be used to check the state of charge of the battery of the vehicle.

Dropping them into water is not recommended. It's best to store the key fob inside its case of protection when not in use. If you happen to lose the key fob, a replacement can be provided that will disable it, rendering it useless for thieves. Contacting the dealer or one of our technicians will be able to do this. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob can 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. BMW then made them smaller and put 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 keys which could puncture bags or pockets, and made the keys easier to hold.

BMW then introduced the Display Key which puts all the features of your vehicle in your hands. The BMW key fob has an LCD screen that lets you lock and unlock your vehicle, operate the air conditioning and display the vehicle's information. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!

If you're in need of a replacement, you can get the same functionality and features with a BMW Digital Key. Simply use your smartphone to replace the BMW key fob and unlock your vehicle! This feature is available for 2021 and newer BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.

bmw spare key cost and exciting key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which lets you start your car and operate certain functions using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely control the climate control of your car and check the battery level. You can also see the amount of fuel left in your car, if it's equipped with this feature.

The procedure for replacing a BMW Digital Key is the same regardless of whether you're using a traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. Our technicians will assist 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 the costs of a replacement if keys get lost or stolen.

If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing you have to do is reset the key. This will erase all programming and render it inoperable. This is accomplished five times, by turning the key from position one to zero and back. Then, you turn it back to position zero and then pull off the ignition.

Security

The BMW Digital Key is a efficient 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. You can also share the key with five others.

The key fob connects to the vehicle via encrypted signals. This makes it impossible for hackers to intercept and clone the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even when it is in motion. The system uses an alarm to stop unauthorised starting and disables ignition switch.

BMW also offers a variety of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob is not near to the vehicle. This feature is available on all models of the brand and provides additional security.

A lot of the more sophisticated BMW models come with keyless access which allows drivers to enter and start the car without having to manually press any buttons or insert a physical key. 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 lock button on the fob three times, and then turn on the remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.

Some people keep their BMW keyfob in a pouch that blocks signals. This reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting unique code that is on the fob to gain access to the vehicle. Some prefer the standard key case which doesn't have this feature, but it will protect the fob from scratches.

Some BMW owners have reported that their cars have been stolen by thieves who used a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signal. 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 smartphone.

Replacement

Everyone has experienced this – the battery in your BMW key fob fails or you have to purchase another one for your family. It's affordable and easy to get a replacement BMW fob, and then program it into your car. You can purchase a replacement from any dealership or locksmith authorized by BMW. A new key fob costs between $400 and $650, depending on the model of BMW you drive.

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

Depending on the model of your car, you might either have a key blade on your key fob or that isn't. The process for syncing new fobs with your car is different for each however the steps are almost identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob has to be inserted in the ignition to begin your car.

If you own a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is even simpler. Once you have programmed your new key fob to your BMW, insert it in the ignition and press start.

While your BMW is a great way to travel around Decatur, it is important to keep your key fob in good working condition. If you are looking for an entirely new BMW key fob or replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you locate the right key fob to your car, and we can even upgrade your BMW with an upgrade to Comfort Access to allow keyless entry and engine starting.