What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?

Your BMW key fob is likely to have numerous functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, manage your windows, and even start your engine.

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

Functions

The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic that has many buttons built into its side. Most of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, however a few have more unique functions. BMW owners, for example can activate a hidden function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is perfect for those looking to cool their vehicle during a hot summer day.

The BMW key fob can be used to start your car. This feature is a safety measure to ensure that no one is able to gain access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver has to first press the lock on the key fob, and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to remotely start the vehicle. This is especially useful in situations where the driver is late for work and doesn't have time to get out of the car and open the door handle.

Lastly, the BMW key fob can be utilized to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is particularly useful for those who travel with multiple people, as it is possible to set each individual's preferred temperature using their own key fob. If you have a hybrid BMW key fob, it can be used to check the charging status of the battery in the vehicle.

Dropping them into water is not recommended. It's best to store the key fob in its protective case when not in use. If you happen to lose the key fob, a replacement can be provided that will disable it, making it useless for thieves. This can be done by calling the dealer or one of our technicians. You can purchase a replacement BMW key fob to restore the functionality of your vehicle.

Design

BMW key fobs were once big rectangular black pieces that looked a bit like an opener for bottles from a distance. They were basic, but they served a purpose. Then BMW began to make them a little smaller and put a plastic case around the key's base that made it look more attractive and a little less like a bottle opener. This new design also minimized the rough key edges which could puncture bags or pockets and made keys easier to hold.

BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your hands. The BMW key fob features an LCD screen that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, control the air conditioning and display the information about your vehicle. It even lets you park remotely on hybrid models!

BMW Digital Keys are a fantastic replacement option if you have to replace the BMW key fob. You can unlock your vehicle using your smartphone if you have a compatible model. This feature is only available on BMW vehicles manufactured after 2021 that use the iDrive 8 system.

The Connected Remote key is another innovative key from BMW that allows you to start your car and control certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control your car’s climate control and monitor battery levels. You can even check how much gas is 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 of obtaining the replacement is the same. You'll have to bring the original key along with the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will help you with everything. You can also purchase an BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the cost of a replacement in the event that your keys get stolen or lost.

If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first step is to reset the key, which erases any programming on it and render it inoperable. This is accomplished five times by rapidly changing the key from position one to zero and back. Then, you turn it back to zero and then take off the ignition.

Security

The BMW Digital Key is a convenient method to start your car. The fob pairs with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle or start the engine and more. You can also share the key with five people.

The key fob transmits encrypted signals to the vehicle. This makes it impossible for hackers to intercept and clone the signal. In addition to this, the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is in motion while it's being transported. The system utilizes an alarm to block unauthorised starting and disables ignition switch.

BMW offers a variety of security features that are available as an option. Passive Start is one such feature that disables the starter motor if the key fob does remain within close proximity to your car. This feature is available on many BMW models and offers an additional level of 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 typically activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times within one second. In certain situations, you might have to press the fob's lock three times to activate the remote start feature on the dashboard or steering wheel.

Some people choose to carry their BMW key fob in a pouch with a signal blocker which minimizes the possibility of a third party broadcasting the identifying signal from the fob and using it to gain access to the car. Others prefer to use the standard key case which does not have this feature, but can protect the fob from scratches.

Some BMW owners have reported that their cars were stolen by criminals who just employed a signal amplifier to increase the signal that identifies. This type of attack, also known as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob in an area that blocks signals or by using an app on your smartphone to block signals.

Replacement

Everyone has had this experience - the battery in your BMW key fob goes out or you need to buy an extra one for your family. Thankfully, getting the replacement BMW key fob and programming it to your car is simple and affordable. You can purchase the replacement from any dealership or locksmith that is authorized by BMW. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650 depending on the model of BMW you drive.

Make sure that there isn't other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming the new keyfob. It is also recommended to shut all doors in your vehicle. Put your new key fob in the ignition, then quickly turn it from position 1 to position zero, and then back again. Press the unlock button, then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. After you've completed this, take off your key and turn the car on. You should hear your vehicle's genuine bmw replacement key uk doors unlock and lock. This means that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.

Depending on the model of your car, you might either have a key blade inside your key fob, or that isn't. The process for syncing new fobs to your car differs for each, but the steps are almost identical. The only difference is that the fob that has a metallic key in it needs to be inserted into the ignition when you want to start the car.

If you have a BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even easier. After you have programmed an entirely new key fob simply connect it to your BMW's ignition and press the start button.

It is essential to ensure that your BMW key fob in working order. Patrick BMW's parts department can assist you locate a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you locate the right key fob to your vehicle, and we can even upgrade your BMW by introducing the Comfort Access upgrade to enable keyless entry as well as engine starting.