7 Things About BMW Key Fob You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing
7 Things About BMW Key Fob You'll Kick Yourself For Not Knowing
Blog Article
What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own a BMW, chances are that your key fob is equipped with numerous functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, control your windows, and even start the engine.
But there are some hidden tricks that you might not have heard of. Let's look at some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic with several buttons incorporated into its side. The majority of these buttons allow you to lock and unlock your car, but a few are unique. BMW owners, for example can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for those who want to cool down their car in the heat of summer.
Another significant benefit of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This is a security measure to ensure that no one is able to gain access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver must first push the lock on the key fob and then press the circular arrow. For the latest BMW models, this feature can also be used to remotely start the vehicle. This is particularly useful in a situation where the driver is late for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car to get the door.
The BMW key fob can also be used for controlling the interior climate system. This is particularly useful for those who travel with several individuals, as it's possible to set each person's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to check the battery's charging status.
While the standard BMW key fobs can handle normal levels of moisture, dropping them in water can cause severe damage. This is why it's recommended to keep the key fob in a protective case when not in use. If you happen to lose the key fob, a solution is available to disable it, rendering it inaccessible to thieves. This can be accomplished by contact with the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob could be purchased to restore full functionality to your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were large black, clunky rectangles that looked like an open bottle from a distance. They were basic, but they served a purpose. Then BMW started to make them smaller and put a plastic case around the base of the key, which made it appear more elegant and less resemble a bottle opener. This new design also reduced rough edges on the keys which could pierce pockets or bags and made the keys more comfortable to hold.
BMW then introduced the Display Key which puts all the functions of your car in your hands. The BMW key fob has small LCD screens that lets you lock and unlock your car, control the air conditioning, and access vehicle information. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!
BMW Digital Keys are a great replacement option if you have to replace your BMW key fob. Just use your compatible smartphone to replace the BMW key fob and unlock your vehicle! This feature is available for 2021 or newer BMW cars that use the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another new and exciting key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that lets you start your car and operate certain features using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control the climate control of your car as well as check the battery level and more! You can see the amount of fuel left in your car if it is equipped with this feature.
The process of replacing the BMW Digital Key is the same, whether you use the traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. Our experts will assist you in the process if you bring both the old and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase an BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover the cost of replacement 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 render it inoperable. This is accomplished by turning the key from position one and back quickly, five times in one row. Then, turn the key until it is at zero and then remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a convenient way to start your vehicle. It is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and is compatible with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the car and then start the engine. It also allows you to share the key with up to five others.
The key fob communicates with vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it impossible for hackers to steal and replicate the signal. In addition the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even if the fob is moving while it's being carried. The system employs an alarm to stop unauthorised starting and disables ignition switch.
BMW also offers a range of optional security features, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob is not within 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 offer keyless access which allows drivers to enter and start the car without having to manually push any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob in just one second. In some cases it is possible to press the lock button on the fob three times to then activate a separate remote start feature in the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW keyfob in a bag that blocks signals. This minimizes the risk of a third-party broadcasting identifying code from the fob to gain access to the vehicle. Some people prefer to use an ordinary case that does not come with the feature, but it still protects the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars were snatched by criminals who used signal amplifiers to boost the identifying signals. This kind of attack, referred to spare key for bmw as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob in a pocket that blocks signals, or by installing an app on your phone to block signals.
Replacement
Everyone has had this experience - the battery in your BMW key fob goes out or you'll need to purchase another one for your family. It's affordable and easy to get a replacement BMW fob, and then program it into your vehicle. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can sell you an alternative key fob. A new key fob costs between $400 and $650 based on the model of BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob for your BMW first, make sure that there isn't another key in the ignition. Close all the doors of your vehicle. Next put your new key fob into the ignition, and switch it to position 1, then return to position 0 five times rapidly. Press the unlock button, then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. Once you have completed this, take off the key and turn on the vehicle. You should hear the doors unlock and lock, which indicates that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you might have a key blade on your key fob or that isn't. Each fob has a different method of synchronizing with your car, however the steps for each are identical. The only difference is the metal key fob needs to be placed in the ignition to start 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 crucial to maintain your BMW key fob in good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you find a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you select the right key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.