How To Save Money On BMW Key Fob

What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?

Your BMW key fob could have many functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, operate your windows, and even start the engine.

However, there are some secrets 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 an incredibly small piece of plastic that has several buttons incorporated into its sides. Most of the buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, however a few have more unique functions. For instance, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on the key fob to lower all of their windows at once by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for people who wish to cool down their vehicle on a hot summer's day.

The BMW key fob can also be used to start your car. This is a fantastic security precaution that prevents unauthorised entry into the vehicle. To start the vehicle, the driver needs to first press the lock on the key fob, and then press the circular arrow. For newer BMW models, this feature can also be used to remotely start the vehicle. This is particularly helpful when the driver is in a hurry for work and doesn't have time to get out of the car to open the door handle.

Lastly lastly, the BMW key fob can also be used to control the vehicle's interior climate system. This is especially useful for people who travel with several individuals as each key fob can be used to set the preferred temperature of each person. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to check on the battery's charging status.

Dropping them in water is not recommended. It's best to store the key fob inside its protective case when it is not in use. If you do lose the key fob, a replacement can be offered to disable it, rendering it unusable for thieves. Contacting our dealer or technicians will be able to do this. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob could be purchased to restore full functionality to your vehicle.

Design

BMW key fobs were big, clunky rectangles in black that from a distance looked like a bottle opener. They were simple, but functional. BMW then made them smaller and put a plastic casing around the base to make it appear more attractive and less like the key opener. This new design also minimized the rough edges of the keys that could poke through pockets or bags 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 comes with small LCD screens which allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, control the air conditioning, and access the vehicle's information. Even hybrid models have remote parking!

If you're in need of a replacement key fob, you can have the same great functionality with a BMW Digital Key. You can use any smartphone compatible to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your car! This feature is available on 2021 or later BMW vehicles that are equipped with the iDrive 8 operating system.

The Connected Remote key is another innovative key from BMW that allows you to start your vehicle and operate certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to control your car’s climate control and check battery levels. You can even see how much gas you have left in your tank, should your car be equipped with that feature.

Whether you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting an replacement is the same. Our experts will assist you with the process if you bring the old and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also choose to purchase an BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the cost of a replacement in the event that 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 will erase any programming it has and render it inoperable. This is done by turning the key to position one, then back in quick succession five times in one row. Then, 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 is compatible with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle, start the engine, and more. It also lets you share the key with up to five others.

The key fob communicates encrypted signals to the vehicle. This makes it difficult for hackers to steal and replicate the signal. Additionally the UWB technology used in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is moving while it's being carried. The system utilizes an alarm to prevent unauthorized starting and disables the ignition switch.

BMW offers a variety of security features that are available as an option. Passive Start is one feature that will disable the starter motor if the key fob does not remain within close proximity to your vehicle. This feature is offered on a number of BMW models and can provide additional security.

A number of the more advanced BMW models offer keyless access which lets drivers enter and start the vehicle without having manually use any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature can be activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob within one second. In certain situations it is possible to press the lock button on the fob three times to then turn on an additional remote start feature on the dashboard or on the steering wheel.

Some people carry their BMW key fob in a pouch with a signal blocker that reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting the identification signal from the fob and using it to access the car. Some prefer a standard key case, which does not have this feature, but can protect the fob from scratches.

Some BMW owners have reported that their vehicles were stolen by thieves who employed a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signal. This type of attack, known as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob into pockets that block signals or website by using an app on your phone to block signals.

Replacement

It happens to everyone and it happens to you too - your BMW key fob battery goes out or you need an extra battery for a family member. Thankfully, getting an alternative BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and affordable. You can purchase an alternative from any dealer or locksmith who is authorized by BMW. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650, depending on the kind of BMW you drive.

To program the new key fob into your BMW first, ensure that there is no other key in the ignition. Close all the doors of your vehicle. Place your new key fob into the ignition, then quickly 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. After you have finished this, take off your key and turn your car on. The doors will unlock and lock, which indicates that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.

Depending on the model of your car, you may either have a key blade on your key fob or one without. The procedure for syncing new fobs to your vehicle is different for each, but the steps 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 wish to start the car.

If you have a BMW with Comfort Access the process is much simpler. After you've programmed an entirely new key fob simply connect it to your BMW's ignition and press the start button.

It is crucial to ensure that your BMW key fob in good condition. If you're in search of an updated BMW key fob or a replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can assist you in selecting the best key fob for your needs and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.