10 Things Everybody Hates About BMW Key Fob
10 Things Everybody Hates About BMW Key Fob
Blog Article
What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob is likely to have numerous functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, operate your windows, and even start your engine.
There are some tricks that you might not know about. Here are a few of the best.
Functions
The BMW key fob consists of an incredibly small piece of plastic with a number buttons embedded into its side. The majority of these buttons are used to unlock and lock the vehicle, and some have additional functions. BMW owners, for example can activate a hidden function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button two times quickly. This is a great option for those looking to cool down their car in the heat of summer.
Another significant function of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the vehicle. This is a wonderful safety precaution and prevents unauthorized entry into the vehicle. To start the vehicle, the driver needs to first push the lock on the key fob, and then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on the latest BMW models to remotely start the vehicle. This is especially useful in a situation 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 interior climate system. This is especially useful for those who travel with multiple people as each key fob is able to set the preferred temperature for each individual. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to check the battery's charge status.
While the standard BMW key fobs can handle normal levels of moisture, dropping them in water can cause severe damage. It is recommended to keep the key fob in its case that is protected when it is not in use. If you lose the key fob, a replacement can be offered to deactivate it, making it inaccessible to thieves. This can be accomplished by calling the dealer or one of our technicians. A replacement for the lost BMW key fob could be purchased to restore functionality to your car.
Design
BMW key fobs were once big, clunky rectangles in black that from a distance looked like a bottle opener. They were basic, but useful. Then BMW began to make them a little more compact and added an aluminum case around the base of the key, which made it appear more elegant and less resemble the bottle opener. This new design also reduced the rough edges of the keys that could poke through pockets or bags and made the keys easier to hold.
BMW introduced the Display Key which puts all the features of your vehicle in your hands. The BMW key fob has a small LCD screen which allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, operate the air conditioning and display the information about your vehicle. Even hybrid models have remote parking!
If you're in need of a replacement, you can get the same great function with the BMW Digital Key. You can unlock your vehicle by using your smartphone, provided you have an appropriate model. This feature is only available for BMW vehicles built after 2021 using the iDrive 8 system.
Another cool new key from BMW is the Connected Remote Key, which allows you to start your vehicle and control some of its features with your smartphone. The app allows you to manage your car's climate control and monitor battery levels. You can also see the amount of fuel left in your car if it is equipped with this feature.
The process of replacing a BMW Digital Key is the same regardless of whether you're using a traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. You'll have to bring your original key and the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will assist you with everything. You can also purchase a BMW Key Protection plan, which will cover the costs of a 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 erases all programming and render it useless. This is accomplished by turning the key to position one, then back in rapid succession five times in a row. Then you can turn the key to zero and remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key makes it easy to start your car. The fob works with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the car and start the engine. You can also share the key with five others.
The key fob connects to the vehicle via encrypted signals. This makes it difficult for hackers to intercept and clone the signal. Additionally the UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key prevents relay attacks even if the fob is moving while it's being transported. The system also has a built-in alarm to prevent unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch, here which is a common target for thieves.
BMW also offers a variety of optional security features, including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob isn't in close proximity to the vehicle. This feature is available on many BMW models and offers an additional level of security.
Many of the more advanced BMW models have keyless access, which allows drivers to enter and start the vehicle without having to manually use any buttons or insert an actual key. This feature is typically activated by pressing the fob's lock button three times in the span of a second. In certain situations, you might have to press the lock on the fob three times to activate the remote start feature on the steering wheel or dashboard.
Some people choose to carry their BMW key fob in a pouch that blocks signals that reduces the chance of a third party broadcasting the identification signal from the fob and using it to access the car. Some prefer using a standard case that doesn't have this feature, but it still protects the fob against scratches.
Some BMW owners reported that their cars were snatched by criminals who used signal amplifiers to increase the signal strength of the identifying signals. This kind of attack is known as "Relay Attack" and can be avoided by keeping the key fob in a signal-blocking pocket or by installing an app that blocks signals on your phone.
Replacement
It happens to everyone - your BMW key fob battery fails, or you need a spare for a family member. It's easy and affordable to get a replacement BMW fob, and then program it into your vehicle. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths can sell you a replacement key fob. A new key fob will cost between $400 and $650, depending on the model of BMW you drive.
Make sure there is no other ignition key in your BMW before you begin programming a new keyfob. Close all the doors of your vehicle. Put your new key fob into the ignition and swiftly change it from position 1 to 0, and then back to position 1. Then, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you've completed this, remove the key and then turn on the vehicle. The doors will unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.
Based on the model of your car depending on the model of your car, you could have an ignition key fob with an actual key blade in it, or a key fob without one. The process of synchronizing new fobs with your car is different for each, but the steps are almost identical. The only difference is that a key fob with a metal key in it will need to be put into the ignition when you want to start the car.
If you have a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is much simpler. Once you have programmed your new key fob in your BMW, insert it in the ignition and press start.
While your BMW is a great way to get around Decatur, it is important that you keep your key fob in good condition. Patrick BMW's parts department will help you find a new BMW fob or replacement. We can assist you in finding the right key fob to your vehicle and can upgrade your BMW with the Comfort Access upgrade to allow keyless entry and engine starting.