15 Reasons Not To Ignore BMW Key Fob

What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?

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

There are a few tricks you might not be aware 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 the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, and certain buttons have additional functions. For instance, BMW owners can activate an in-built function on the key fob to lower all of their windows at once by pressing the unlock button two times. This is a great option for those who wish to cool down their vehicle on the scorching summer days.

The BMW key fob can also be used to begin your vehicle. This is a security measure to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver has to press the lock button on the key fob and then the circular arrow. For the latest BMW models the feature can be used to remotely start the car. This feature is particularly useful when the driver is late for work and does not have time to open the door handle.

Additionally lastly, the BMW key fob can be utilized to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is particularly useful for people who travel with multiple people, since it is possible to set each individual's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. If you own hybrid BMW key fob, it can be used to determine the status of charging the battery of the vehicle.

Dropping them in water is not recommended. It is best to store the key fob inside its protective case when not in use. If you lose your key fob, we can offer a service that will disable the device, rendering it inaccessible to thieves. This can be done by contact with 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, clunky rectangles in black that from a distance looked like a bottle-opener. They were simple, but functional. BMW then made them smaller and also added a plastic casing around the base to make it look more attractive and less like an opener for keys. This new design also minimized the rough edges of keys that could poke through bags or pockets, and made keys more comfortable to hold.

Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the features of your car in your hand. The BMW key fob comes with an LCD screen which allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, control the air conditioning and view vehicle information. It even lets you park remotely on hybrid models!

BMW Digital Keys are a great alternative if you want to replace the BMW key fob. You can unlock your car by using your smartphone, if you have an appropriate model. This feature is only available on BMW vehicles manufactured after 2021 using the iDrive 8 system.

The Connected Remote key is another amazing new key from BMW that allows you to start your car and use certain features using your smartphone. The app allows you to control the climate control of your car and check battery levels. You can also see how much gas is left in your tank if the car is equipped with this feature.

If you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting an replacement is the same. Our technicians will assist you with the process when you bring the old and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also choose to purchase a BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the cost of a replacement if your keys are stolen or lost.

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 five times by quickly shifting the key from position one to position zero and back. Then, you turn it back to position zero and then pull off the ignition.

Security

The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. The fob 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 other people.

The key fob is encrypted and transmits signals with the vehicle. This makes it impossible for hackers to steal and replicate the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even when it is moving. The system also incorporates a built-in alarm to prevent non-authorized starts and disables ignition switch which is a frequent target for thieves.

BMW offers a variety of security features that are available as an option. Passive Start is one such feature that will disable the starter motor if the key fob does remain within close proximity to your vehicle. This feature is offered in many of the brand's models and gives you peace of mind.

BMW's more advanced models feature keyless entry, which allows drivers to access their vehicle without having manually inserting a key or pressing any buttons. This feature is activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob in just one second. In some instances, you may have to press the fob's lock 3 times in order to activate the remote start feature on the steering wheel or dashboard.

Some people carry their BMW key fob in a pouch with a signal blocker, which reduces the risk of a third party broadcasting the identifying signal from the fob and using it to access the car. Some prefer using an ordinary case that does not have the feature, but it still protects the fob against scratches.

A few BMW owners have reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals using signal amplifiers to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This kind of attack is known as "Relay Attack" and can be avoided by keeping the key fob in a signal blocking pocket or by using a signal-blocking app on your smartphone.

Replacement

It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery dies or you need an extra battery for your family member. Thankfully, getting a replacement BMW key fob and programming it to your car is easy and inexpensive. You can buy a replacement from any dealership or locksmith authorized by BMW. A new key fob is likely to cost between $400 and $650, depending on the kind of BMW you drive.

To program a new key fob for your BMW first, ensure that there is no other key in the ignition. Also, close all doors inside your vehicle. Put your new key fob into the ignition and swiftly turn it from position 1 to position zero, and then back to position 1. Then, hold down the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you have finished this, remove your key and turn the car on. You should hear the doors unlock and lock, which indicates that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.

Based on the car model You may have an ignition key fob with a physical key blade 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 similar. The only difference is the metal key fob needs to be placed in the ignition to start your vehicle.

If you have a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is much simpler. Once you have programmed your new key fob in your BMW and inserted it into the ignition and press start.

It is essential to ensure that your BMW key fob in good in good working order. If you're looking for an entirely new BMW key here fob, or a replacement one, you can reach the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you select the correct key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.