9 Signs You're A BMW Key Fob Expert
9 Signs You're A BMW Key Fob Expert
Blog Article
What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have an BMW, chances are that your key fob is equipped with a lot of functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, control your windows, and even start your engine.
There are a few secret techniques that you may not be aware of. Here are some of the most effective.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a tiny, rectangular piece of plastic that has several buttons incorporated into its side. Most of them allow you to lock and unlock your car, but a few are distinctive. For instance, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on their key fob to lower all of their windows at once by pressing the unlock button twice. This is ideal for those looking to cool their vehicle in the heat of summer.
Another significant purpose of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the vehicle. This is a fantastic security precaution that prevents unauthorised entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, drivers must first press the lock button on the key fob, then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to start the vehicle remotely. This is particularly useful when the driver is running late for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car to get the door handle.
Additionally lastly, the BMW key fob can be used to control the car's interior climate system. This is especially useful for those traveling with multiple individuals as each key fob is able to set the preferred temperature for each person. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to check on the battery's charging status.
Dropping them into water is not recommended. It is best to store the key fob inside its case of protection when it is not in use. If you lose the key fob, a service can be provided that will disable it, rendering it inaccessible to thieves. Contacting our dealer or technicians will be able to do this. You can buy a replacement BMW key fob to repair the functionality of your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were big, clunky rectangles in black that from a distance looked like a bottle opener. They were basic, but they served a purpose. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it look more appealing and less like a key opener. The new design also reduced rough edges on the keys that could poke into bags or pockets and made the keys more comfortable 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 lets you park remotely on hybrid models!
If you're in need of an alternative key fob, you can have the same great functionality by using a BMW Digital Key. You can use any smartphone compatible to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your car! This feature is only available for BMW vehicles made after 2021 using the iDrive 8 system.
Another exciting new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which allows you to start your car and control some of its features with your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control the climate control of your car and check battery levels. You can even see how much gas you have left in your tank if the car is equipped with that feature.
If you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process for getting the replacement is the same. You'll need to bring your working key along with the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will help you with everything. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover replacement costs 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 will erase any programming on it and render it useless. This is done by turning the key from position one and then back quickly, five times in the same row. Then switch the key to zero and remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy 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 is encrypted and transmits signals to the vehicle. It is therefore impossible for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even if the device is in motion. 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 range of optional security features, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob is not in close proximity to the vehicle. This feature is available in several models from the brand and gives you peace of mind.
A number of the more advanced BMW models offer keyless access which allows drivers to get in and start the car without having to manually use any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature is typically activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times within one second. In certain situations it may be necessary to press the button to lock the fob three times, and then activate the remote start feature within the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW keyfob in a bag 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 using an ordinary case that does not have the feature, but it still protects the fob against scratches.
Some BMW owners reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals using signal amplifiers to increase the signal strength of here the identifying signals. This type of attack, referred to as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob in a pocket that blocks signals, or by utilizing an app on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery goes out, or you need an extra battery for your family member. It's easy and affordable to get a replacement BMW fob, and then program it into your car. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can offer you the replacement key fob. A new key fob costs between $400 and $650, depending on the kind of BMW you drive.
Check to see if there is other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming the new keyfob. It is also recommended to shut all doors inside your vehicle. Insert your new key fob in the ignition, and quickly change it from position 1 to position zero, and then back to position 1. Hold the unlock button, then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. Once you have completed this, remove the key and turn on the car. The vehicle's doors lock and unlock. This means that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you could either have a key blade inside your key fob or that isn't. The process of synchronizing new fobs to your vehicle differs for each however, the steps are similar. The only difference is that the fob that has a metallic key in it will need to be placed in the ignition whenever you are ready to start your car.
If you own a BMW with Comfort Access the process is much simpler. After you've programmed an entirely new key fob simply insert it into the ignition of your BMW and press the start button.
While your BMW is a great way to travel around Decatur It is crucial that you keep your key fob in a good condition. If you are looking for a new BMW key fob, or a replacement for your existing one, contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can assist you in finding the perfect key fob for your car and even upgrade your BMW with the Comfort Access upgrade to enable keyless entry as well as engine starting.