14 Questions You Shouldn't Be Afraid To Ask About BMW Key Fob
14 Questions You Shouldn't Be Afraid To Ask About BMW Key Fob
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What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own a BMW you are likely to find that your key fob has a lot of functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, operate your windows, and even start your 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 a small rectangular piece of plastic that has several buttons incorporated into its side. Most of the buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, but some have additional functions. For instance, BMW owners can activate an invisible function on their key fob to lower all their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is a great option for those who wish to cool down their vehicle on the summer heat.
The BMW key fob can also be used to start your vehicle. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver has to press the lock button on the key fob, then press the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to remotely start the car. This is particularly helpful in situations where the driver is running late for work and doesn't have time to get out of the car to open the door.
Additionally it is worth noting that the BMW key fob may also be used to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is especially helpful for those who travel with multiple people as each key fob is able to set the preferred temperature for each individual. If you have a hybrid BMW, the key fob can be used to determine the charging status of the vehicle's battery.
While standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of water, dropping them into water can cause serious damage. It is best to store the key fob in its case that is protected when not in use. If you lose your key fob we can provide a service that will disable the device, making it useless to thieves. This can be accomplished by calling the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob can then be purchased to restore functionality to your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were once large black, clunky rectangles that looked a bit like a bottle opener from the distance. They were basic, but they served a purpose. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it appear more appealing and less like an opener for keys. The new design also trimmed the rough edges of the keys that could pierce bags or pockets and made keys easier to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the features of your car in the palm of your hand. The BMW key fob comes with small LCD screens which allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, operate the air conditioning and view vehicle information. Even hybrid models can have remote parking!
BMW Digital Keys are an excellent replacement if you need to replace your BMW key fob. Just use your compatible smartphone to replace the BMW key fob and unlock your car! This feature is available for 2021 and newer BMW vehicles that are equipped with the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another cool new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which lets you start your car and operate certain features using your smartphone. The app allows you to control your car’s climate control and check the battery level. You can even check how much gas is left in your tank, in the event that your car is equipped with that feature.
If you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting the replacement is the same. Our technicians will help you in the process if you bring both your old key and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase an BMW Key Protection Plan, which covers the cost of replacement when keys are 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 it has and render it inoperable. This is done by turning the key to position one, then back quickly, five times in a row. Then you can turn the key until it is at zero and then remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. The fob is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the car and start the engine. You can also share the key with five others.
The key fob connects to the vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it difficult for hackers to intercept and replicate the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents relay attacks even if it is moving. The system also uses an alarm built-in to stop unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.
BMW also offers a range of security more info options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob isn't in close proximity to the car. This feature is available on many BMW models and offers additional security.
A number of the more advanced BMW models come with keyless access, which allows drivers to enter and start the car without having to manually use any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature is usually activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times within one second. In some cases, you may need to press the lock button on the fob three times to then activate the remote start feature in the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW key fob in a case that blocks signals. This decreases the possibility of a third-party broadcasting the identifying code from the fob to gain access to the vehicle. Some prefer using an ordinary case that doesn't have this feature, but still protects the fob against scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars have been stolen by criminals who simply utilized a signal amplifier in order to boost the identifying signal. This type of attack is known as "Relay Attack" and can be avoided by keeping the key fob in a signal-blocking pocket or by using a signal-blocking app on your phone.
Replacement
Everybody has experienced this: the battery in your BMW key fob fails or you have to purchase an extra one for your family. Thankfully, getting an alternative BMW key fob and programming it to your car is simple and affordable. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can offer you the replacement key fob. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650 based on the kind of BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob to your BMW first, ensure that there isn't another key in the ignition. It is also recommended to shut all doors inside your vehicle. Place your new key fob in the ignition and swiftly change it from position 1 to position 0, and then 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've completed this, remove your key and turn the vehicle on. The doors will unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Depending on your car model, you may have an ignition key fob with a physical key blade inside it, or a fob that does not have one. The procedure for syncing new fobs to your car is different for each one however, the steps are almost identical. The only difference is that the fob with a metal key inside will need to be put into the ignition when you wish to start the car.
If you own an BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process is even more straightforward. Once you have programmed your new key fob into your BMW and inserted it into the ignition and press start.
It is crucial to ensure that your BMW key fob in good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department can help you find a replacement BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you choose the correct key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.