What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?

If you have an BMW, chances are that your key fob has numerous functions. You can use it for a variety of purposes, including opening your doors, controlling your windows as well as starting the engine.

However, there are some hidden tricks that you might not know about. Let's take a look some of the most effective ones.

Functions

The BMW key fob is a small rectangular piece of plastic that has a number of buttons integrated into its side. The majority of these buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, and some have additional functions. BMW owners, for example can activate a hidden function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is a great option for those who want to cool their vehicle during a hot summer day.

Another significant function of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This is a security measure to ensure that no one is able to gain access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver has to first turn off the lock on the key fob, and then the circular arrow. For newer BMW models, this feature can also be used to remotely start the vehicle. This is especially useful when the driver is in a hurry for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car to get the door.

The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the internal climate system. This is especially convenient for those who travel with several people, as it is possible to set each person's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to monitor the battery's charging status.

Dropping them in water is not recommended. It is best to store the key fob inside its case that is protected when it is not in use. If you lose the key fob, a replacement can be offered to disable it, rendering it inaccessible to thieves. This can be accomplished by contact with the dealer or one of our technicians. You can purchase a replacement BMW key fob to restore your car's functionality.

Design

BMW key fobs were once large, clunky rectangles of black that, from a distance, looked like a bottle-opener. They were basic, but useful. Then BMW began to make them a little smaller and also added a plastic case around the key's base that made it appear more elegant and less like the bottle opener. The new design also trimmed the rough key edges which could puncture pockets or bags and made keys easier to hold.

Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the features of your car in your hand. It lets you lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and display vehicle information on a small touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!

If you're in need of an alternative key fob, you can have the same great function with a BMW Digital Key. You can use any smartphone compatible to replace the BMW key fob and unlock your car! This feature is available for 2021 or newer BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.

Another exciting new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which allows you to start your car and use some of its features with your smartphone. The app lets you remotely manage your car's climate control, check battery levels, and more! You can check how much fuel is left in your car if it is equipped with this feature.

If you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process for getting an replacement is the same. You'll have to bring your original key and the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will help you with everything. You can also choose to purchase a BMW Key Protection plan, which will pay for the cost of a replacement in the event that your keys are lost or stolen.

If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing you need to do is reset the key. This erases all programming and render it unusable. This is accomplished by turning the key to position one and back in rapid succession, five times in the same row. Then you can turn the key to position zero and then remove it from 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 or start the engine and much more. You can also share the key with five people.

The key fob communicates encrypted signals with the vehicle. This makes it difficult 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 in motion. The system also uses a built-in alarm to prevent unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.

BMW offers a range of optional security features. Passive Start is one feature that disables the starter motor when the key fob doesn't remain close to your car. This feature is available in all models of the brand and gives you peace of mind.

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

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

Some BMW owners reported that their cars were snatched by criminals using a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signals. This type of attack, known as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob into pockets that block signals or by using an app on your smartphone to block signals.

Replacement

It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery fails or you require a spare for a family member. It's easy and affordable to purchase a new BMW fob, and program it into your vehicle. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths can sell you the replacement key fob. A new key fob will typically cost between $400 and $650, based 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. Close all doors of your vehicle. Put your new key fob into the ignition and swiftly move it from position 1 to 0, 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. Once you've completed this, take off your key and turn your car on. The doors should lock and unlock, indicating that your new key fob is successfully programmed.

Based on the model of your car, you might have a key blade in your key fob or without. Each fob has a different process to sync with your vehicle, but the steps for each are identical. The only difference is the metal key fob needs to be placed in the ignition to begin your vehicle.

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

While your BMW is a fantastic vehicle to travel around Decatur, it is important that you keep your key fob in good condition. If you are looking for a new BMW key fob or replacement one, you can reach the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you choose the correct key here fob and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.