Why We Love BMW Key Fob (And You Should, Too!)

What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?

Your BMW key fob could have numerous functions. It can be used for many things, including unlocking your doors, adjusting your windows, and even starting the engine.

However, there are some hidden tricks that you might not be aware of. Let's take a look at some of the most useful ones.

Functions

The BMW key fob consists of a small rectangular piece of plastic that has a number buttons embedded into its side. Most of these buttons allow you to lock and unlock your car, but a few are distinctive. BMW owners, for instance, can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for people who want to cool their vehicle on a hot summer's day.

Another significant benefit of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This is a wonderful security precaution that prevents unauthorised entry into the vehicle. To start the vehicle, the driver needs to first push the lock on the fob of the key and then press the circular arrow. For the latest BMW models it can be used to remotely start the vehicle. This is particularly helpful in a situation where the driver is late for work and doesn't have time to get out of the car to open the door.

The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the interior climate system. This is especially convenient for those who travel with multiple people, since it is possible to set each person's preferred temperature using their own key fob. For those who have hybrid BMW, the key fob can be used to monitor the status of charging the vehicle's battery.

Dropping them into water is not recommended. It is best to store the key fob in its protective case when not in use. If you do lose the key fob, a replacement can be offered to deactivate it, making it inaccessible to thieves. This can be done by contacting the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob can then be purchased to restore full functionality to your vehicle.

Design

BMW key fobs were once large, clunky rectangles of black that from a distance looked like a bottle opener. They were basic, but they served a purpose. BMW then made them smaller and put a plastic casing around the base to make it appear better and less like the key opener. The new design also trimmed rough edges on the keys that could poke into pockets or bags and made keys easier for you to hold.

BMW has since introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your hands. It lets you lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and display vehicle information on a small LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. It even lets you park remotely on hybrid models!

If you're in need of an upgrade for your BMW Digital Key, you can enjoy the same great function with the BMW Digital Key. Just use your compatible smartphone to replace the BMW key fob and unlock your car! This feature is available on 2021 or newer BMW vehicles that are equipped with the iDrive 8 operating system.

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

Whether you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key read more fob the process of obtaining the replacement is the same. You'll have to bring the original key and the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will help you with everything. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover the cost of replacement when keys are lost or stolen.

If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing to do is reset the key. This erases all programming and render it unusable. This is accomplished five times, by shifting 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 makes it easy to start your car. The fob works with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It allows you to unlock your vehicle and start the engine. It also allows you to share the key with up to five others.

The key fob transmits encrypted signals to the vehicle. This makes it difficult for hackers to intercept and clone the signal. Additionally, the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is moving when it is being carried. The system employs an alarm to block unauthorised starting and disables the ignition switch.

BMW also provides a variety of optional security features, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob isn't within close proximity to the car. This feature is offered on a number of BMW models and provides additional security.

BMW's more advanced models feature keyless entry, which allows users to start their vehicle without having manually inserting a key or pressing any buttons. This feature is usually activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times in a single second. In some cases it may be necessary to press the lock button on the fob three times and then turn on the remote start feature within the dashboard or on the steering wheel.

Some people prefer to carry their BMW key fob in a signal-blocking pouch which minimizes the possibility of a third party broadcasting the signal that identifies the fob and using it to access the car. Some prefer using a standard case, which does not have the feature, but it still protects the fob from scratches.

Some BMW owners have reported that their cars were stolen by criminals using signal amplifiers to boost 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 blocker app on your smartphone.

Replacement

It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery fails or you require a spare for your family member. It's affordable and easy to purchase a new BMW fob and then program it into your car. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can sell you an alternative key fob. A new key fob is likely to cost between $400 and $650, based on the model of BMW you drive.

Make sure there is no other ignition key in your BMW before you begin programming the new keyfob. It is also recommended to shut all doors in your vehicle. Place your new key fob in the ignition and swiftly move it from position 1 to position 0, and back to position 1. Then, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you've completed this, take off the key and switch on the vehicle. The vehicle's doors lock and unlock. This means that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.

Depending on your car model, you may have a key fob that has an actual key blade in it, or a fob without one. Each one has a distinct method of synchronizing with your car, but the steps for each are nearly identical. The only difference is the metal key fob needs to be placed into the ignition to start your car.

If you have a BMW with Comfort Access the process is even easier. After you've programmed the new key fob, simply insert it into the ignition of your car and press the start button.

While your BMW is a fantastic way to get around Decatur however, it is vital that you keep your key fob in good condition. If you're looking for a new BMW key fob or replacement one, you can reach the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can assist you in finding the right key fob to your vehicle and even upgrade your BMW with the Comfort Access upgrade to enable keyless entry as well as engine starting.