What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?

If you have 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 the engine.

There are a few tricks you may not be aware of. Let's take a look some of the most useful ones.

Functions

The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic, with a number of buttons integrated into its side. The majority of these buttons unlock and lock the car however, a few are distinct. BMW owners, for example can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is a great option for those who wish to cool down their vehicle during a hot summer's day.

Another major function of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the vehicle. This feature is a safety measure to ensure that no one is able to gain access to the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver must press the lock button on the key fob, then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to remotely start the vehicle. This is particularly helpful in situations where the driver is in a hurry for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car to open the door.

The BMW key fob can also be used for controlling the internal climate system. This is especially helpful for those who travel with multiple individuals as each key fob can be used to determine the preferred temperature for each individual. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to monitor the battery's charging status.

Dropping them into water is not recommended. It's best to store the key fob inside its case that is protected when not in use. If you do lose the key fob, a solution is available to deactivate it, making it inaccessible to thieves. Contacting the dealer or our technicians can do this. You can purchase a new BMW key fob to restore your car's functionality.

Design

BMW key fobs used to be large rectangular black pieces that looked like a bottle opener from the distance. They were simple, but functional. BMW then made them smaller and put a plastic casing around the base to make it appear more appealing and less like the key opener. This new design also reduced the rough edges of the key that could poke into bags or pockets, and made the keys easier for you to hold.

BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the features of your vehicle in your palm. The BMW key fob has small LCD screens which allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, control the air conditioning and display the information about your vehicle. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!

BMW Digital Keys are a great replacement if you need to replace your BMW key fob. Simply use your smartphone to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is only available on BMW vehicles built after 2021 that use the iDrive 8 system.

Another new and exciting key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that allows you to start your car and operate certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control the climate control of your car and check the battery level. You can also see how much gas is left in your tank if the car is equipped with that feature.

The procedure for replacing the BMW Digital Key is the same whether you're using an old-fashioned key or a BMW Digital Key. You'll need to bring your working key and the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will help you with everything. 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 thing you have to do is reset the key. This erases all programming and render it useless. This is accomplished five times by rapidly shifting the key from position one to zero and back. Then, you turn it back to position zero and then pull it out of the ignition.

Security

The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. The fob pairs with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle and start the engine and more. You can also share the key with five people.

The key fob connects to the vehicle using encrypted signals. This makes it difficult click here 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 moving. The system also has a built-in alarm to prevent non-authorized starts and disables ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.

BMW offers a variety of security options that can be added. Passive Start is one feature that disables the starter motor if the key fob does remain close to your car. This feature is available on many BMW models and can provide an additional level of security.

A number of the more advanced BMW models offer keyless access which allows drivers to enter and start the vehicle without having to manually press any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature is typically activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times within one second. In certain situations, you may need to press the button to lock the fob three times and then activate the remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.

Some people carry their BMW key fob in a case that blocks signals. This decreases the possibility that a third party broadcasts the identification code from the fob in order to gain access to the vehicle. Others prefer to use a standard key case, which does not have this feature, but can protect the fob from scratches.

Some BMW owners have reported that their cars have been stolen by criminals who just utilized a signal amplifier in order to boost the identifying signal. This type of attack is referred to as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping the key fob in a signal blocking pocket or by using a signal-blocking app on your phone.

Replacement

It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you need a spare for your family member. Luckily, purchasing the replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your car is easy and affordable. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths can sell you an alternative key fob. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650 depending 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. Also, close all doors inside your vehicle. Insert your new key fob into the ignition, then quickly turn it from position 1 to position 0, and back to position 1. Hold the unlock button and quickly press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. Once you have completed this, remove the key and turn on the vehicle. You should hear your vehicle's doors unlock and lock. This means that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.

Based on the model of your car You may have a key fob that has a key blade that is physically inside it, or a key fob that does not have one. The process for syncing new fobs with your car is different for each however the steps are nearly identical. The only difference is that a key fob with a metal key in it needs to be placed in the ignition whenever you are ready to start your car.

If you own an BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even easier. Once you have programmed your new key fob into your BMW and inserted it into the ignition and press start.

It is essential to keep your BMW key fob in good order. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you find a replacement BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you find the perfect key fob for your car and even upgrade your BMW with a Comfort Access upgrade to allow keyless entry and engine starting.