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

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

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What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?

If you own a BMW it is likely that your key fob comes with a lot of functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, manage your windows and even start your engine.

However, there are some secrets you might not be aware of. Let's look at some of the most useful ones.

Functions

The BMW key fob consists of a small rectangle of plastic with many buttons incorporated into its sides. The majority of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, however certain buttons have additional functions. BMW owners, for example, can activate a secret function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is perfect for those who wish to cool their vehicle on a hot summer day.

The BMW key fob can also be used to start your car. This is a security measure to ensure that no one is able to gain access to the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver has to press the lock button on the key fob, then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to remotely start the car. This feature is especially useful when a driver is running late to work and doesn't have the time to pull the door handle.

Lastly, the BMW key fob can also be used to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is especially helpful for those who travel with multiple people as each key fob can be used to set the preferred temperature for each individual. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to check the battery's charge status.

Dropping them in water is not recommended. For this reason, it's best to keep the key fob in a safe case when not in use. If you lose the key fob, a replacement is available to 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 can be purchased to restore full functionality to your car.

Design

BMW key fobs were large, clunky rectangles of black that, from a distance, appeared like a bottle-opener. They were simple, but functional. Then BMW began to make them a little smaller and put a case made of plastic around the base of the key, which made it appear more elegant and less resemble a bottle opener. The new design also reduced rough edges on the keys that could poke into pockets or bags and made the keys easier to hold.

Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all the functions of your vehicle in the palm of your hand. It allows you to lock and unlock your car, control your air conditioning, and view vehicle information on a small LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. It even lets you park remotely on hybrid models!

BMW Digital Keys are an excellent replacement option if you have to replace the BMW key fob. You can unlock your vehicle using your smartphone when you own a compatible model. This feature is available on 2021 and later BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.

The Connected Remote key is a cool new key from BMW that allows you to start your car and use certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control the climate control of your car and check battery levels and much more! You can also see how much gas is left in your tank in the event that your car is equipped with this feature.

If you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process of obtaining the replacement is the same. You'll need to bring your working key and the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will help you with everything. You can also purchase the BMW Key Protection Plan, which covers the cost of replacement in the event that your 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 will erase all programming and render it useless. This is done by turning the key from position one, then back in quick succession, five times in the same row. Then, turn it to position zero and then pull it out of 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, start the engine, and much more. It also allows you to get more info share the key with up to five other people.

The key fob is encrypted and transmits signals with the vehicle. This makes it difficult for hackers to intercept and clone 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 transported. The system also incorporates an inbuilt alarm system to block unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.

BMW also offers a variety of security options that are available, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob is not near to the vehicle. This feature is offered on a number of BMW models and can provide an additional level of security.

A lot of the more sophisticated BMW models come with keyless access that allows drivers to enter and start the car without having to manually push any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature is usually activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times within one second. In certain situations it is possible to press the lock button on the fob three times and then activate an additional remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.

Some people keep their BMW key fob in a case that blocks signals. This decreases the possibility of a third-party broadcasting the unique code that is on the fob to gain access to the vehicle. Some prefer using an ordinary case that does not come with the feature, but it still protects the fob from scratches.

A few BMW owners reported that their vehicles were taken by criminals who used signal amplifiers to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This type of attack, referred to as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob into an area that blocks signals or by using an app on your phone to block signals.

Replacement

It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you require an extra battery for your family member. Thankfully, getting an alternative BMW key fob and programming it to your car is easy and affordable. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths can sell you an alternative key fob. A new key fob costs between $400 and $650 based on the type BMW you drive.

To program the new key fob into your BMW first, ensure that there isn't another key in the ignition. Close all doors of your vehicle. Insert your new key fob in the ignition and swiftly move it from position 1 to 0, and back to position 1. Hold down the unlock button, then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. Once you have completed this, remove the key and turn on the vehicle. The doors should lock and unlock, indicating that your new key fob is successfully programmed.

Based on the model of your car, you may either have a key blade inside your key fob, or without. Each key fob has its own method of synchronizing with your car, but the steps for each are nearly identical. The only difference is that the key fob with a metal key inside will need to be placed in the ignition whenever you wish to start the car.

If you own a BMW with Comfort Access the process is even simpler. Once you have programmed the new key fob, simply insert it into the ignition of your BMW and press the start button.

It is crucial to keep your BMW key fob in good order. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you locate a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can help you choose the best key fob for your needs and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.