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

What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?

Your BMW key fob could have many functions. It can be used for many things, including opening your doors, controlling your windows, and even starting the engine.

However, there are some hidden tricks that you might not have heard of. Here are some of the best.

Functions

The BMW key fob consists of an incredibly small piece of plastic with several buttons incorporated in its side. Most of them unlock and lock the car however, some are distinct. For instance, BMW owners can activate an in-built function on the key fob to lower all their windows at once by pressing the unlock button two times. This is ideal for those who wish to cool down their vehicle on the scorching summer days.

Another significant function of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the vehicle. This is a security measure that prevents unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the vehicle, the driver needs to first turn off the lock on the key fob, and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to start the vehicle remotely. This feature is especially beneficial when a driver is late to work and does not have the time to pull the door.

The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the interior climate system. This is especially useful for those traveling with multiple individuals as each key fob is able to determine the preferred temperature of each person. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to check the battery's charge status.

Dropping them into water is not recommended. It's recommended to keep the key fob in a safe case when not in use. If you do lose the key fob, a solution is available to disable it, making it useless for thieves. This can be done by contact with the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for a lost BMW key fob can then be purchased to restore full functionality to your vehicle.

Design

BMW key fobs were large, clunky black rectangles that looked a bit like a bottle opener from the distance. They were simple but functional. Then BMW started to make them a little smaller and put a case made of plastic around the key's base that made it look nicer and less resemble an opener for bottles. The new design also reduced rough edges on the keys which could pierce pockets or bags, and made the keys more comfortable to hold.

BMW then introduced the Display Key which puts all the functionality of your vehicle in your palm. It lets you lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and see the vehicle's information on a small touchscreen LCD on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models have remote parking!

BMW Digital Keys are a great replacement if you need to replace the BMW key fob. You can unlock your vehicle with your smartphone when you own a compatible model. This feature is available on 2021 and more recent BMW vehicles that are equipped with the iDrive 8 operating system.

Another exciting new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key that allows you to start your vehicle and control certain features using your smartphone. The app lets you remotely manage your car's climate control, check battery levels, and much more! You can check how much fuel remains in your car, if it's equipped with this feature.

Whether you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob the process for getting the replacement is the same. Our technicians will assist you in the process if you bring your old key and the new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase a 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 you have to do is reset the key. This will erase all programming and render it unusable. This is done by turning the key to position one and then back in rapid succession, five times in the same row. Then switch the key to zero and remove it from the ignition.

Security

The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your vehicle. The fob works with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle, start the engine, and much more. It also lets you share the key with up to five others.

The key fob transmits encrypted signals to the vehicle. This makes it difficult for hackers to steal and clone the signal. In addition the UWB technology in the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even if the fob is moving while it's being transported. The system also has an alarm built-in to stop unauthorised starts and disables the ignition switch, which more info is a common target for thieves.

BMW also offers a range of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob isn't within close proximity to the car. This feature is available on many BMW models and provides an additional level of security.

A number of the more advanced BMW models offer keyless access that lets drivers enter and start the vehicle without having manually push any buttons or insert the physical key. This feature is usually activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times within one second. In certain situations it is possible to press the lock button on the fob three times to then activate the remote start feature in the dashboard or on the steering wheel.

Some people carry their BMW key fob in a pouch that blocks signals that reduces the chance of a third party broadcasting the identifying signal from the fob and using it to access the car. Others prefer to use an ordinary key case which does not have this feature, but can protect the fob from scratches.

A few BMW owners have reported that their vehicles have been stolen by criminals who just utilized a signal amplifier in order to increase the signal that identifies. 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 a signal blocker app on your phone.

Replacement

Everyone has experienced this - the battery in your BMW key fob fails or you need to buy a spare one for a family. Fortunately, finding the replacement BMW key fob and programming it to your car is simple and affordable. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can offer you an alternative key fob. A new key fob is likely to cost between $400 and $650, based on the kind of BMW you drive.

Check to see if there is other ignition key in your BMW before you start programming the new keyfob. You should also close all doors inside your vehicle. Next you'll need to insert your new key fob in the ignition and move it to position 1 before turning back to position 0 five times quickly. Press the unlock button and quickly press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. Once you've completed this, remove your key and turn the vehicle on. The doors will unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.

Based on the model of your car, you may have a key blade in your key fob or without. Each one has a distinct process for synchronizing with your vehicle, but the steps for each are almost identical. The only difference is that the fob with a metal key inside will need to be inserted into the ignition when you are ready to start your car.

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

It is essential to maintain your BMW key fob in working condition. If you're looking for an updated BMW key fob, or a replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can assist you in finding the perfect key fob for your car and can upgrade your BMW with the Comfort Access upgrade to allow keyless entry and engine starting.