Why BMW Key Fobs May Be More Risky Than You Think
Why BMW Key Fobs May Be More Risky Than You Think
Blog Article
BMW Key Fobs
BMW key fobs aren't the bulky rectangles of black plastic they were. These days, smart keys offer more than a remote lock and unlock they also allow you to control your car's climate, check charging status on hybrid models, and so much more.
For most Longmont drivers, adding additional keys to your BMW and programming new ones is a simple procedure. Get the fobs you want to program and then close the doors and windows of the car.
Security
BMW key fobs are designed with security in the forefront. They utilize a set of codes to connect with the car and the car only starts after it has received an authentic code from the fob. This means that thieves will have to take your car physically and have your BMW keyfob in hand before they are able to start it.
BMW also comes with a security feature that alerts you if someone is trying to break into your car with a physical key. This is a great option for those looking for an added layer of security. It will sound a loud alarm when someone attempts to open your BMW and will notify you of the exact person who is in the car.
Another way to add extra security is to buy a BMW Digital Key. This feature works with many of BMW's models and may be shared with up to five people. The Digital Key can be used with any iPhone or Android smartphone that is compatible, however, it must be equipped with the BMW Connected application installed. This app will teach the phone how to pair with the BMW and provide you with the list of features that can be activated by pressing the button on the top of your BMW key.
The BMW Digital Key could even replace your traditional key fob in certain BMW automobiles. If you own an E-Series model equipped with Comfort Access, then you will need deactivate your previous key and reprogram your vehicle with the new key in order to allow this feature to function. This can be accomplished by the dealer or one of our technicians.
No matter how secure your BMW key fob is, it is best to be sure to keep it out of sight when not being used. There are a lot of videos online that show how it is easy to break almost all locks on your home typically in less than one minute. Thieves can do the same thing to your car simply using a fake keys that resembles your BMW key fob.
One question that is asked often is whether or not BMW key fobs go to sleep. Some people worry that if they leave their keys in their pocket jeans, it would be easy for someone to get into the car without being aware. Most standard BMW key fobs will be suitable for normal day-today humidity levels.
Ease of Use
As technology advances cars keys become less practical to use. With the introduction of BMW's Digital Key Plus and later the iX key, you can open the door of your car and begin it from your smartphone, without even taking your phone out of your pocket. This is made possible with the help of UWB chips that can detect the key fob's proximity to the vehicle and initiate certain actions without your involvement.
You may not be aware of the tricks and hacks that make your BMW even more practical. Did you know, for instance, that your BMW key fob has an in-built blade? This useful feature lets you to fold the side mirrors into the body of the vehicle when it's locked, making it more convenient when parked in tight spaces or on busy roads.
Another trick that a lot of BMW owners aren't aware of is the ability to open all of your car's windows with just one press of the unlock button. This is an excellent feature to have driving on a hot day or if you're parking your BMW in the vicinity of a store.
You can also use the button on older BMW models to turn on and off the engine of the vehicle. This is useful in the event that your battery is not fully charged and you are in a garage. To activate this feature, just press and hold the unlock button on the BMW's key fob.
If you want to upgrade your BMW's key fob, keep in mind that replacement key fobs are only available from dealers and must be designed for your vehicle based on the VIN. This means that key fobs that are sold on sites like eBay aren't compatible and could cause significant damage if they're used in the incorrect vehicle. For maximum security, it's recommended to get your key fob deactivated by a professional before selling or transferring it to someone else.
Durability
BMW is known more info for its top quality, and that extends to the automaker's key fobs as well. BMW fobs have several features that make them more durable than others such as the ability to withstand everyday wear and tear. For instance, standard BMW key fobs can withstand being tossed through the washing machine, and even a few inches of water. It is recommended that owners keep the fobs away excessive amounts of water.
A standard BMW key fob could also be used to remotely start the engine. This feature is easy to activate but may not be as effective as other key fobs. To activate remote start, the owner has to hold the lock button for a couple of seconds until they hear a click. Then, they can use the circular arrow button to start the engine for a short time.
The BMW Display Key, a newer type of key fob with touchscreen, is a more sophisticated type of key fob. It's the most sophisticated fob BMW offers and is available in a variety of its top models. The touchscreen on the Display Key allows drivers to access features that they would not be able to access with the traditional fob.
Driver profiles are among the most popular features of a BMW Key Fob. They allow each person to alter their vehicle settings according to preferences. Each fob has a unique profile so that the vehicle will automatically adjust itself to the driver's preferences when the fob is inserted into the ignition.
Another popular feature of a BMW key fob is Comfort Access, which allows the driver to open their vehicle by simply pressing their smartphone or smartwatch to the door handle. This convenience is great however it could be a security threat if keys are lost or stolen. So, certain BMW owners choose to use pouches that block signals to stop theft.
While BMW's key fobs are extremely durable and offer an array of options, they require regular maintenance. The battery for the key fob needs to be replaced at least once a year, and it's a fairly easy task. You can buy replacement batteries at hardware stores, big-box retailers, and on the internet. Additionally, the vehicle's owner's manual provides instructions on how to replace the battery.
Battery Life
BMW key fobs are equipped with advanced technology to safeguard your vehicle from theft. However, even the most advanced fobs will require replacement batteries at some moment. Knowing how to identify a drained or dead fob battery and replace it can help you avoid security vulnerabilities.
Key fob batteries are easy to find in most hardware stores and other stores that sell electronic accessories. They are also affordable and cost anywhere between $4 and $7 for a 4-pack of batteries. However, the type of battery can have a significant impact on its performance.
It is essential to regularly use the fob to ensure that the battery is full. Going on a BMW for a couple of long drives per year, for instance, can keep the battery charged and prolong its lifespan. Also, ensure that you keep your key fob safe from other electronic devices, as these can cause electrical interference which drains the battery more than usual.
The most common type of battery that is used in key fobs are the CR2032 and the CR2450. These coin batteries with a voltage of 3 volts are known for their reliability and long shelf life. You should always read the owner's manual or battery to make sure that you have the appropriate battery for your model.
If you're unsure of the type of battery the battery on your BMW key fob requires, you'll need to talk to an expert. A BMW dealership can provide you with an alternative battery or recommend a reliable battery manufacturer.
In some cases the key fob could have a malfunctioning or damaged circuit board that can affect its performance and lead to the battery's lifespan being cut short. A technician at a dealership or independent can help diagnose and fix these problems.
The key fob is equipped with an embedded chip that contains security codes and the programming for the vehicle with which it communicates. The battery powers the chip, however, it's not erased after the battery has died. You can start your car manually and then unlock it if you lose your key fob.