What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?

If you have an BMW, chances are that your key fob has numerous functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, manage your windows and even start the engine.

But there are some secret techniques that you may not have heard of. Here are a few of the best.

Functions

The BMW key fob is a tiny, rectangular piece of plastic, with a number of buttons integrated into its side. Most of these buttons allow you to lock and unlock your car, but a few are distinct. For example, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on the key fob to lower all of their windows at once by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is a great option for those who wish to cool down their car in the heat of summer.

The BMW key fob can also be used to begin your car. This is a fantastic security measure and blocks unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver must press the lock button on the key fob and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to remotely start the car. This is particularly useful when the driver is in a hurry for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car and open the door handle.

The BMW key fob can also be used for controlling the internal climate system. This is particularly useful for people who travel with multiple people, as it is possible to set each person's preferred temperature using their own key fob. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to check on the battery's charge status.

While standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of humidity, dropping them into water can cause severe damage. It's recommended to keep the key fob in a protective case when not in use. If you lose your key fob we can offer a service which will deactivate the device, rendering it useless to thieves. Contacting the dealer or one of our technicians will do this. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob could be purchased to restore full functionality to your car.

Design

BMW key fobs were big, clunky rectangles in black that, from a distance, looked like a bottle opener. They were simple, but functional. Then BMW started to make them a little smaller and put a plastic case around the base of the key that made it look nicer and less like a bottle opener. This new design also minimized the rough key edges which could puncture bags or pockets, and made the keys easier to hold.

Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all of your vehicle's functionality in your hand. The BMW key fob features an LCD screen that lets you lock and unlock your vehicle, operate the air conditioning and view the information about your vehicle. Even hybrid models can have remote parking!

If you're in need of an upgrade, you can get the same functionality and features with a BMW Digital Key. You can use any smartphone compatible to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is only available on BMW vehicles made after 2021 using the iDrive 8 system.

Another new and exciting key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that allows you to start your car and use certain features using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely control your car's climate control as well as check the battery level and more! You can see how much fuel remains in your car if it has this feature.

The procedure for replacing a BMW Digital Key is the same whether you're using a traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. You'll need to bring your working key along with the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will assist you with everything. You can also choose to purchase a BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the costs of a replacement if your keys get bmw car key 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 unusable. This is accomplished by turning the key to position one, then back in quick succession five times in a row. Then, turn the key to zero and take it out of the ignition.

Security

The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. It is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It allows you to unlock your vehicle 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. It is therefore difficult for hackers and cloners to get the signal. In addition the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is in motion while it's being carried. The system utilizes an alarm to prevent unauthorized starting and disables the ignition switch.

BMW offers a range of optional security features. Passive Start is one feature that will disable the starter motor if the key fob does remain in close proximity to your car. This feature is available in many of the brand's models and gives you security.

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

Some people choose to carry their BMW key fob in a signal-blocking pouch that reduces the chance of a third party broadcasting the signal that identifies the fob and allowing access to the car. Some prefer using a standard case that doesn't have this feature, but still protects the fob against scratches.

A few BMW owners reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals who used signal amplifiers to boost the identification signals. This type of attack, known as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob into pockets that block signals, or by utilizing an app on your phone to block signals.

Replacement

Everybody has experienced this: the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you have to purchase a spare one for a family. It's simple and inexpensive to purchase a new BMW fob, and program it into your vehicle. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths can sell you a replacement key fob. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650 depending on the model of BMW you drive.

To program the new key fob into your BMW, first make sure that there isn't another key in the ignition. It is also recommended to shut the doors of your vehicle. After that, insert the new key fob into the ignition and move it to position 1 before turning return to position 0 five times rapidly. Press the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, take off your key and turn your car on. You should hear your car's doors lock and unlock. This indicates that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.

Depending on the model of your car, you might have a key blade on your key fob or one without. Each one has a distinct process to sync with your car, however the steps for each are identical. The only difference is that a key fob with a metal key in it needs to be placed in the ignition whenever you wish to start the car.

If you own a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is much simpler. After you've programmed the new key fob, simply connect it to the ignition of your car and press the start button.

It is crucial to ensure that your BMW key fob in good order. Patrick BMW's parts department can assist you find a replacement BMW fob or replacement. We can help you select the best key fob for your needs and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.