11 Methods To Refresh Your BMW Key Fob
11 Methods To Refresh Your BMW Key Fob
Blog Article
What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
If you have an BMW it is likely that your key fob is equipped with many functions. You can use it to unlock your doors, manage your windows, and even start the engine.
There are a few tricks you might not be aware of. Here are a few of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob is a tiny, rectangular piece of plastic, with several buttons incorporated into its side. The majority of these buttons allow you to lock and unlock your car however, a few are unique. BMW owners, for instance can activate a hidden function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is perfect for those who wish to cool down their car on a hot summer day.
The BMW key fob can also be used to start your vehicle. This is a fantastic safety precaution and prevents unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the car, the driver must first turn off the lock on the fob of the key and then press the circular arrow. For the latest BMW models the feature can be used to remotely start the vehicle. This is especially 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 get the door.
Finally it is worth noting that the BMW key fob can be used to control the car's interior climate system. This is particularly helpful for those who travel with multiple people, since it is possible to set each person's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. If you have hybrid BMW key fob, it can be used to monitor the charging status of the battery in the vehicle.
While standard BMW key fobs can handle normal levels of moisture, dropping them in water can cause serious damage. For this reason, it's best to keep the key fob in a safe case when not in use. If you have lost your key fob, we can provide a service which will deactivate the device, rendering it inaccessible to thieves. This can be done by calling the dealer or one of our technicians. You can purchase a replacement BMW key fob to re-establish the functionality of your vehicle.
Design
BMW key fobs were huge, clunky rectangular shapes in black that, from a distance, appeared like a bottle opener. They were basic, but they served a purpose. Then BMW began to make them smaller and also added a plastic case around the base of the key that made it appear more elegant and less resemble the bottle opener. The new design also trimmed rough edges on the key that could poke into bags or pockets, and made the keys easier to hold.
BMW then introduced the Display Key which puts all the functions of your car in your hand. It allows you to lock and unlock your car, control 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!
If you're in need of a replacement, you can get the same great function by using a BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your car using your smartphone if you have an appropriate model. This feature is available for 2021 and newer BMW cars that use the iDrive 8 operating system.
Another new and exciting key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which lets you start your car and operate certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to control your car’s climate control and check battery levels. You can also see the amount of fuel left in your car if it is equipped with this feature.
The process for replacing a BMW Digital Key is the same whether you're using an old-fashioned key or a BMW Digital Key. Our technicians will help you with the process when you bring both your old key and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover the cost of 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 will erase any programming that was stored on it and render it inoperable. This is done by turning the key from position one, then back in quick succession five times in one row. Then, turn the key to position zero and take it out of the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. The fob is compatible with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle or start the engine and more. You can also share the key with five others.
The key fob communicates encrypted signals to the vehicle. This makes it difficult for hackers to steal and replicate the signal. In addition to this, the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks, even if the fob is in motion while it's being carried. The system also uses a built-in alarm to prevent unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch, which is a common target for thieves.
BMW also offers a range of security options that are available, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob isn't within close proximity to the car. This feature is available on many of the brand's models and gives you peace of mind.
A lot of the more sophisticated BMW models offer keyless access, which allows drivers to get in and start the car without having to manually press any buttons or insert the physical key. This feature can be activated by pressing three times on the lock button on the fob in a single second. In some instances 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 signal-blocking pouch, which reduces the risk of a third-party broadcasting the identifying signal from the fob and using it to access the car. Some people prefer to use a standard case that does not come with the feature, but it still protects the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners reported that their cars were stolen by criminals using signal amplifiers to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This kind of attack, known as "Relay Attack", can be avoided by putting the key fob in an area that blocks signals or by using an application on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery fails, or you need a spare for a family member. Luckily, purchasing a replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your car is easy and inexpensive. You can purchase the replacement from any dealership or locksmith authorized by BMW. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650 based on the model of BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob for your BMW first, ensure that there isn't another key in the ignition. Close all the doors of your vehicle. Insert your new key fob in the ignition and swiftly read more change it from position 1 to position 0, and 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. Once you have completed this, take off the key and turn on the vehicle. The doors will unlock and lock, which indicates that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Based on the car model, you may have keys that have an actual key blade in it or a key fob that doesn't have one. Each fob has a different process for synchronizing with your car, but the steps for each are almost identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob will need to be placed in the ignition to start your car.
If you own an BMW equipped with Comfort Access, the process is even more straightforward. Once you have programmed your new key fob to your BMW, insert it in the ignition and press start.
It is crucial to keep your BMW key fob in good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department can assist you find a replacement BMW fob or replacement. We can help you select the right key fob and also upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry and engine starting.