A Step-By'-Step Guide For BMW Key Fob
What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you own an BMW it is likely that your key fob comes with numerous functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, manage your windows and even start your engine.
There are some tricks that you may not be aware of. Here are some of the best.
bmw replacement key consists of a small rectangular piece of plastic with many buttons incorporated into its side. The majority of these buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, however a few have more unique functions. BMW owners, for example, can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is a great option for those who want to cool their vehicle on the scorching summer days.
Another important purpose of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This feature is a safety measure that prevents unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the car, the driver must first press the lock on the fob of the key and then press the circular arrow. For newer BMW models, this feature can also be used to remotely start the car. This is especially useful when the driver is running late for work and doesn't have time to get out of the car and open the door.
The BMW key fob can also be used for controlling the internal climate system. This is especially useful for those who travel with multiple individuals as each key fob is able to determine the preferred temperature for each person. If you have 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's a good idea to keep the key fob in a protective case when not in use. If you lose the key fob, a solution can be provided that will disable it, making it useless for thieves. This can be accomplished by calling the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob could be purchased to restore 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. Then BMW started to make them more compact and added a case made of plastic around the base of the key, which made it appear more elegant and less like a bottle opener. This new design also reduced the rough edges of keys that could poke through bags or pockets and made 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 comes with a small LCD screen that lets you lock and unlock your vehicle, control the air conditioning, and access vehicle information. 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 by using a BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your car using your smartphone provided you have a compatible model. This feature is only available for BMW vehicles made after 2021 that use the iDrive 8 system.
Another new and exciting key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that 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 the battery level. You can even check how you've got gas left in your tank in the event that your car is equipped with that feature.
The process of replacing a BMW Digital Key is the same, whether you use an old-fashioned key or a BMW Digital Key. Our technicians will assist you with the process when you bring your old key and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase an BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover replacement costs when keys are lost or stolen.
If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first step is to reset the key, which erases any programming it has and render it inoperable. This is accomplished by turning the key from position one and then back quickly 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 is a easy method to start your car. The fob works with your Apple Watch or smartphone and is compatible with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the vehicle and then start the engine. It also lets you share the key with up to five others.
The key fob communicates with the vehicle via encrypted signals. This makes it impossible for hackers to intercept and replicate 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 an alarm built-in to stop unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch, which is a common target for thieves.
BMW also provides a variety of optional security features, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob is not in close proximity to the vehicle. This feature is offered in several models from the brand and gives you security.
A number of the more advanced BMW models offer keyless access that lets drivers enter and start the car without having to manually push any buttons or insert an actual key. This feature is typically activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times within one second. In some instances, you may need to press the lock button on the fob three times to then turn on the remote start feature within the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW keyfob in a bag that blocks signals. This decreases the possibility of a third-party broadcasting unique code that is on the fob to gain access to the car. Others prefer to use a standard key case, which does not have this feature, but it will protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners reported that their cars were stolen by criminals who used signal amplifiers to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This kind of attack, known as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob in an area that blocks signals, or by utilizing an application on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery dies or you require an extra battery for a family member. Thankfully, getting a replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your car is easy and inexpensive. You can purchase an alternative from any dealer or locksmith authorized by BMW. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650 depending on the type BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob to your BMW, first make sure that there isn't another key in the ignition. You should also close the doors of your vehicle. Insert your new key fob into the ignition, and quickly change it from position 1 to zero, and then back to position 1. Hold the unlock button, then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. Once you have completed this, take off the key and then turn on the vehicle. The doors should unlock and lock, which indicates that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Based on the car model depending on the model of your car, you could have an ignition key fob with a physical key blade inside it, or a fob that doesn't have one. Each fob has a different process to sync with your vehicle, but the steps for each are almost identical. The only difference is that the fob that has a metal key inside will need to be placed in the ignition whenever you are ready to start your car.
If you own a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is even easier. After you've programmed a new key fob, simply connect it to the ignition of your car and press the start button.
While your BMW is a great way to travel around Decatur however, it is vital to keep your key fob in good condition. If you're looking for an updated BMW key fob or a replacement for your existing one, contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you choose the right key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.