15 Reasons You Shouldn't Ignore BMW Key Fob
15 Reasons You Shouldn't Ignore BMW Key Fob
Blog Article
What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob probably has numerous functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, operate your windows, and even start the engine.
There are a few secrets you might not know about. Let's take a look some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob is an incredibly small piece of plastic with a number buttons embedded into its side. Most of these 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 a great option for those looking to cool their vehicle on a hot summer day.
The BMW key fob can also be used to start your vehicle. This is a security measure that prevents unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver has to first push the lock on the key fob and then press the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to remotely start the vehicle. This is particularly useful when the driver is late for work and doesn't have time to get out of the car and open the door.
Lastly it is worth noting that the BMW key fob may also be used to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is especially convenient for people who travel with multiple people, since it is possible to set each individual's preferred temperature using their own key fob. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to monitor the battery's charge status.
Dropping them in water is not recommended. It's best to store the key fob inside its case of protection when not in use. If you lose the key fob, a replacement is available to disable it, making it unusable for thieves. This can be accomplished by contact with the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob can be purchased to restore full functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were huge, clunky rectangular shapes in black that from a distance looked like a bottle-opener. They were basic, but useful. 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. The new design also trimmed the rough edges of keys that could poke through bags or pockets and made the keys easier to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the features of your car in the palm of your hand. The BMW key fob has small LCD screens that allows you to lock and unlock your car, control the air conditioning, and access the vehicle's information. It even allows remote parking on hybrid models!
If you're in need of an upgrade, you can get the same functionality and features with a BMW Digital Key. Just use your compatible smartphone to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is available on 2021 and newer BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another new and exciting key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which allows you to start your vehicle and operate certain functions using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely control your car's climate control and check battery levels and much more! You can even check how much gas you have left in your tank should your car be equipped with that feature.
No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process of obtaining an replacement is the same. Our technicians will help you with the process when you bring your old key and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also choose to purchase a BMW Key Protection plan, which will pay for the cost of a replacement if 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 useless. This is accomplished by turning the key from position one, then back in quick succession, five times in the same row. 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 can unlock the vehicle and also start the engine. It also lets you share the key with up to five other people.
The key fob communicates encrypted signals to the vehicle. It is therefore extremely difficult for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. In addition, the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is moving when it is being carried. The system also uses an inbuilt alarm system to block unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch, which is a common target for thieves.
BMW also offers a range of optional security features, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob isn't near to the vehicle. This feature is offered on a number of BMW models and can provide additional peace of mind.
BMW's most advanced models come with keyless entry, which lets users to start their vehicle without having manually insert a key or push any buttons. This feature can be activated by pressing three times on the lock button of the fob in just one second. In some cases it may be necessary to press the lock button on the fob three times and then activate the remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW keyfob in a bag that blocks signals. This minimizes the risk of a third-party broadcasting identifying code from the fob in order to gain access to the car. Some prefer an ordinary key case which does not have this feature but will still protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that here their cars were stolen by criminals who used signal amplifiers to boost the identifying signals. This type of attack is referred to as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping your key fob in a signal-blocking pocket or by using a signal-blocking app on your phone.
Replacement
Everyone has experienced this - the battery in your BMW key fob goes out or you have to purchase another one for your family. It's easy and affordable to get a replacement BMW fob, and program it into your car. You can purchase an alternative from any dealer or locksmith who is authorized by BMW. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650 based on the type BMW you drive.
Make sure that there isn't other ignition key in your BMW before you begin programming the new keyfob. It is also recommended to shut all doors inside your vehicle. Put your new key fob into the ignition, then quickly turn it from position 1 to position 0, and back again. Hold the unlock button and then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. Once you've completed this, take off the key and then turn on the vehicle. You should hear your car's doors unlock and lock. This indicates that the new key fob was successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car You may have keys that have a key blade that is physically inside it or a key fob without one. The process of synchronizing new fobs to your vehicle is different for each, but the steps are nearly identical. The only difference is that the key fob that has a metallic key in it will need to be inserted into the ignition when you wish to start the car.
If you own a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is even simpler. Once you have programmed the new key fob, simply connect it to the ignition of your car and press the start button.
While your BMW is a fantastic way to travel around Decatur, it is important that you keep your key fob in good working condition. Patrick BMW's parts department can assist you locate a new BMW fob or replacement. We can help you choose the best key fob for your needs and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.