10 Things People Hate About BMW Key Fob
What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?
Your BMW key fob probably has many functions. You can use it for many things, including opening your doors, controlling your windows as well as starting the engine.
There are a few hidden tricks that you might not know about. Let's look at some of the most useful ones.
Functions
The BMW key fob consists of a small rectangle of plastic that has many buttons incorporated into its sides. The majority of these buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, and certain buttons 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 perfect for those who wish to cool their vehicle during a hot summer day.
Another major 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 newer BMW models to remotely start the vehicle. This feature is particularly useful when the driver is late to work and doesn't have time to turn the door.
The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the interior climate system. This is particularly useful for those who travel with multiple people, since it is possible to set each person's preferred temperature using their own key fob. If you own hybrid BMW key fob, it can be used to check the charging status of the battery in the vehicle.
While the standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand normal levels of humidity, dropping them into water can cause serious damage. It is recommended to keep the key fob inside its protective case when it is not in use. If you do lose the key fob, a solution can be provided that will disable it, rendering it inaccessible to thieves. This can be done by contacting 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 once big, clunky rectangles in black that, from a distance, appeared like a bottle opener. They were basic, but useful. BMW then made them smaller and added a plastic casing around the base to make it appear more appealing and less like an opener for keys. bmw key 1 series reduced rough edges on the keys which could pierce pockets or bags, and made the keys more comfortable to hold.
Then BMW introduced the Display Key, which puts all of your vehicle's functionality in the palm of your hand. The BMW key fob comes with small LCD screens which allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle, operate the air conditioning and display the vehicle's information. 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. Simply use your smartphone to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your car! This feature is available for 2021 or later BMW cars that use the iDrive 8 operating system.
The Connected Remote key is another cool new key from BMW that lets you start your car and control certain features using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely control the climate control of your car and check battery levels and much more! You can check how much fuel remains in your car if it has this feature.
The process of replacing a BMW Digital Key is the same whether you're using a traditional key or a BMW Digital Key. 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 costs of a replacement if 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 on it and render it inoperable. This is done by turning the key to position one, then back in quick succession, five times in a row. Then you can turn the key to position zero and remove it from the ignition.
Security
The BMW Digital Key is a convenient method to start your vehicle. The fob is compatible with your Apple Watch or smartphone and works with BMW Connected Drive. It can unlock the vehicle and then start the engine. You can also share the key with five people.
The key fob communicates encrypted signals with the vehicle. This makes it impossible for hackers to intercept and clone the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents attacks on relays even if the device is in motion. The system uses an alarm to prevent unauthorized starting and disables the ignition switch.
BMW offers a range of optional security features. Passive Start is one such feature that disables the starter motor if the key fob doesn't remain within close proximity to your car. This feature is available on a variety of BMW models and can provide additional security.
BMW's more sophisticated models include keyless entry, which lets users to start their vehicle without having manually insert a key or press any buttons. This feature is usually activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times in a single second. In certain situations it is possible to press the button to lock the fob three times and then turn on an additional remote start feature within the dashboard or on the steering wheel.
Some people carry their BMW key fob in a case that blocks signals. This minimizes the risk that a third party broadcasts the unique code that is on the fob to gain access to the vehicle. Some prefer a standard key case, that does not come with this feature, but can protect the fob from scratches.
A few BMW owners have reported that their cars were stolen by criminals using a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signals. This type of attack, also known as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob into a pocket that blocks signals, or by installing an app on your smartphone to block signals.
Replacement
Everyone has experienced this - the battery in your BMW key fob dies or you'll need to purchase an extra one for your family. It's simple and inexpensive to get a replacement BMW fob and then program it into your vehicle. BMW authorized locksmiths or dealers can sell you a replacement key fob. A new key fob can cost between $400 and $650, based on the type of BMW you drive.
To program a new key fob for your BMW first, make sure that there isn't another key in the ignition. You should also close the doors of your vehicle. Then you'll need to insert your new key fob in the ignition, and turn it to position 1 and back to position 0 five times in rapid succession. Then, hold down the unlock button on your BMW key fob and press the BMW logo three times in rapid succession. After you have finished this, remove your key and turn the vehicle on. You should hear your vehicle's doors lock and unlock. This means that the new key fob was successfully programmed.
Depending on your car model, you may have keys that have a physical key blade inside it, or a key fob that does not have one. The process for syncing new fobs to your vehicle is different for each, but the steps are almost identical. The only difference is that the metal key fob needs to be placed into the ignition to start your car.

If you have a BMW with Comfort Access the process is even simpler. Once you have programmed a new key fob, simply connect it to your BMW's ignition and press the start button.
It is essential to keep your BMW key fob in working order. If you're in search of a new BMW key fob or replacement, you can contact the parts department at Patrick BMW. We can help you locate the perfect key fob for your car and can upgrade your BMW with a Comfort Access upgrade to enable keyless entry as well as engine starting.