15 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Be Ignoring BMW Key Fob
15 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Be Ignoring BMW Key Fob
Blog Article
What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have an BMW you are likely to find that your key fob has numerous functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, manage your windows, and even start your engine.
There are a few secret techniques that you may not have heard of. Let's look at some of the most effective ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob consists of a small rectangular piece of plastic that has several buttons incorporated in its side. Most of these buttons allow you to lock and unlock your car, but a few are distinctive. For example, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on their key fob to lower all their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is a great option for those who wish to cool down their car during the scorching summer days.
The BMW key fob can be used to start your vehicle. This is a fantastic security measure and blocks unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the car, the driver has to first push the lock on the fob of the key and then the circular arrow. For the latest BMW models, this feature can also be used to remotely start the car. This is particularly useful in situations where the driver is in a hurry for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car to open the door.
The BMW key fob can also be used for controlling the internal climate system. This is especially helpful for those who travel with multiple people since each key fob can be used to determine the preferred temperature for each individual. 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 is recommended to keep the key fob in its protective case when not in use. If you have lost your key fob, we can offer a service that will disable the device, rendering it useless to thieves. Contacting our dealer or technicians will do this. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob can then be purchased to restore full functionality to your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were once huge rectangular black pieces that looked a bit like a bottle opener from the distance. They were simple, but functional. Then BMW started to make them more compact and added a case made of plastic around the base of the key, which made it look nicer and a little less like an opener for bottles. The new design also reduced rough edges on the key that could get into bags or pockets and made keys easier for you to hold.
BMW then introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your hands. It lets you lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and view the information about your vehicle on a tiny touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models can have remote parking!
If you're in need of a replacement key fob, you can have the same great function by using 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 for 2021 or more recent BMW vehicles that are equipped with the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another cool new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which allows you to start your car and control certain functions using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely control your car's climate control, check battery levels, and more! You can check the amount of fuel left in your car, if it's equipped with this feature.
No matter if you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting an replacement is the same. Our technicians will help you with the process if you bring the old and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase the BMW Key Protection plan, which will pay for the cost of a replacement if your keys get 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 done by turning the key to position one and then back quickly five times in one row. Then switch the key until it is at zero and remove it from 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 car and also start the engine. You can also share the key with five people.
The key fob communicates encrypted signals with the vehicle. It is therefore impossible for hackers and cloners to intercept the signal. Additionally, the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even if the fob is moving while it's being carried. The system also uses an alarm built-in to stop unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch which is a frequent target for thieves.
BMW also offers a variety of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob isn't near to the car. This feature is available on many of the brand's models and read more provides additional peace of mind.
BMW's more advanced models feature keyless entry, which lets drivers to access their vehicle without having manually insert a key or press any buttons. This feature is typically activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times in the span of a second. In some cases it is possible to press the button to lock the fob three times to then activate an additional remote start feature within the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people prefer to carry their BMW key fob in a signal-blocking pouch that reduces the chance of a third-party broadcasting the identification signal from the fob and allowing access to the car. Some prefer the standard key case that does not come with this feature but will still protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their cars have been taken by thieves who utilized a signal amplifier in order to boost the identifying signal. This kind of attack is referred to as "Relay Attack" and can be prevented by keeping the key fob in a signal-blocking pocket or by using an app that blocks signals on your smartphone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery fails or you require a spare for a family member. Fortunately, finding an alternative BMW key fob and programming it into your car is easy and inexpensive. 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.
Check to see if there is other ignition key in your BMW before you begin programming a new keyfob. Close all the doors of your vehicle. Then, insert the new key fob into the ignition and move it to position 1, then return to position 0 five times in rapid succession. Then, press 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 the car on. You should hear your car's doors unlock and lock. This means that the new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car, you may either have a key blade inside your key fob, or that isn't. Each fob has a different method of synchronizing with your car, however the steps for each are nearly identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob has to be placed in the ignition to start your car.
If you have a BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process is even simpler. After you've programmed a new key fob, simply insert it into the ignition of your car and press the start button.
It is crucial to keep your BMW key fob in good order. If you're looking for a new BMW key fob, or a replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you choose the best key fob for your needs and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.