3 Reasons You're BMW Key Fob Is Broken (And How To Fix It)
3 Reasons You're BMW Key Fob Is Broken (And How To Fix It)
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What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob could have many functions. It can be used for a variety of purposes, including unlocking your doors, controlling your windows as well as starting the engine.
But there are some secrets you might not know about. 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, but a few are distinct. BMW owners, for example can activate a hidden function on their key fob by pressing the unlock button twice quickly. This is ideal for those who wish to cool off their car in the heat of summer.
The BMW key fob can also be used to begin your car. This is a security measure that prevents unauthorized access to the vehicle. To start the engine, the driver must press the lock button on the key fob, then the circular arrow. This feature is also available on newer BMW models to remotely start the car. This feature is especially useful when a driver is running late to work and does not have time to turn the door handle.
The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the internal climate system. This is particularly useful for those who travel with multiple individuals, as it's possible to set each person's preferred temperatures with their individual key fob. The key fob of a hybrid BMW can be used to check the battery's charging status.
While the standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of water, dropping them into water can cause significant damage. It is best to store the key fob in its case that is protected when not in use. If you do lose the key fob, a replacement can be offered to deactivate it, making it unusable for thieves. This can be accomplished by calling the dealer or one of our technicians. You can purchase a new BMW key fob to re-establish the functionality of 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 useful. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it appear more appealing and less like a key opener. This new design also reduced rough edges on the keys which could pierce bags or pockets and made keys more comfortable to hold.
BMW then introduced the Display Key which puts all the functions of your car in your hand. It lets you lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and view the information about your vehicle on a tiny LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. Even hybrid models can have remote parking!
BMW Digital Keys are a fantastic replacement option if you have to replace your BMW key fob. Simply use your smartphone to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is available on 2021 or newer BMW vehicles with the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is another innovative key from BMW that lets you start your car and control some features with your smartphone. The app allows you to control the climate control of your car and check the battery level. You can also see the amount of fuel left in your car if it has this feature.
If you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting an replacement is the same. You'll need to bring your working key along with the new one to Patrick BMW, and our technicians will help you with everything. You can also purchase an BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover the cost of replacement when 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 will erase all programming and render it inoperable. This is accomplished by turning the key from position one, then back quickly, five times in a row. Then, turn it back to position zero and then pull off the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a convenient method to start your vehicle. The fob is compatible with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle and start the engine and much more. You can also share the key with five other people.
The key fob transmits encrypted signals with the vehicle. It is therefore extremely difficult for hackers and cloners, to intercept the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even when it is in motion. The system also has an inbuilt alarm system to block unauthorized starts and disables the ignition switch which is a popular target for thieves.
BMW also provides a variety of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor if the key fob isn't in close proximity to the car. This feature is available on all models of the brand and provides additional peace of mind.
A number of the more advanced BMW models have keyless access that allows drivers to enter and start the car without having to manually push any buttons or insert a physical key. This feature can be activated by pressing three times on the lock button of the fob in just one second. In certain situations, you may need to press the lock button on the fob three times, and then turn on the remote start feature in the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people choose to carry their BMW key fob in a signal-blocking pouch which minimizes the possibility of a third party broadcasting the signal that identifies the fob and allowing access to the car. Others prefer to use a standard key case, that does not come with this feature, but can protect the fob from scratches.
Some BMW owners have reported that their cars have been taken by thieves who used a signal amplifier 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 installing a signal blocker app on your smartphone.
Replacement
Everyone has had this experience - the battery in your BMW key fob fails or you'll need to purchase another one for your family. It's easy and affordable to purchase a new BMW fob, and program it into your vehicle. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can sell you an alternative key fob. A new key fob will typically cost between $400 and $650, depending on the model of BMW you drive.
Check to see if there is other ignition key in your BMW before you begin programming the new keyfob. Close all the doors of your vehicle. Next put your new key fob in the ignition and turn it to position 1, then back to position 0 five times in rapid succession. Next, press the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. Once you've completed this, remove your key and turn your car on. The doors should unlock and lock, indicating that your new key fob is successfully programmed.
Depending on the model of your car, you could either have a key blade on your key fob or without. Each one has a distinct process for synchronizing with your vehicle, but the steps for each bmw replacement keys are nearly identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob has to be placed in the ignition to start your vehicle.
If you have a BMW equipped with Comfort Access the process is even easier. Once you have programmed your new key fob into your BMW then, you can insert it into the ignition and press start.
While your BMW is a fantastic vehicle to travel around Decatur, it is important to keep your key fob in a good condition. If you're in search of a new BMW key fob or a replacement for your existing one, contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you select the best key fob for your needs and upgrade your BMW to Comfort Access for keyless entry or engine starting.