3 Common Reasons Why Your Bmw Key Fob Isn't Working (And What You Can Do To Fix It)
BMW Key Fobs - More Than Just Locks and Unlocks
A BMW key fob does more than just lock and unlock your car. It also controls the windows and start your car.
To program a BMW key to program a BMW key, insert the new key into the ignition. Then quickly turn it five times from position one to position zero. Then, press the lock button (BMW logo) three times.
Keyless entry
BMW key fobs are designed to let you enter your vehicle without the need for a physical key. They're also designed to lock and unlock your car from a distance. They can be used for a range of about 30ft, and typically, they can open the trunk with the press of an button.
Some BMW models have a "Smartkey" which allows you to use a smartphone instead of an actual key fob. If your phone is compatible with Smartkey, you can put it to the door handle to open your car or press and hold the lock button to close the trunk. Certain BMWs have a motorized trunk that opens and closes the trunk automatically with a simple push of the switch.
Key fobs can be used to communicate with the vehicle via radio signals. The system can recognize when they're within the range of the car. The system then can activate certain features, like the power trunk release, or the parking assist sonic. These features can be turned on and off through key fobs or the iDrive system.
If you purchase a new BMW key fob, the dealer will program it to work with your vehicle. This is why it's important to buy your BMW key fob from a dealership that you trust. This way, you can be certain that the key fob is authentic BMW part, prepared for your specific vehicle based on the VIN.
Some BMW models come with remote start buttons that are located on the key fob. This can be useful for those who don't want to get out of their cars when it's raining or snowing.
Insert the working key in the ignition and turn it to position 1 and then return it to zero 5 times. Press the unlock button three times on the new keyfob in order to confirm that the program was successful. Then repeat the process with any additional keys you'd like to program.
Driver profiles
The newer BMW key fobs come with a feature called driver profiles. This lets the car identify which key is being used and set features in memory to match the driver's preferences, such as the position of the seat or presets for radio. This is beneficial when more than two people share the same vehicle but have different preferences. You can export these settings from one key to another by using the Connected Drive website or app. You can also create a guest profile in case you want to permit someone else to use your vehicle.
If you lose a BMW key, or if it is stolen you can stop your vehicle from being accessed by criminals by deactivating that specific key. This can be done by our technicians or the dealer. Key deactivation will block and make inoperable the fob's identification signal to protect your car from theft.
Standard BMW key fobs are built to resist moisture, therefore it's unlikely that they will be damaged from regular use, like getting wet. Some premium fobs like the Display Key touchscreen are more vulnerable. They should be treated with extra attention and kept out of the rain. For this reason, you might want to think about buying a waterproof BMW fob case to protect your key fob from water damage. You could also try a pouch that blocks signals to ensure that your fob is not received by a radio amplifier but still allowing you to unlock the car.
Hidden features
Today's BMW key fobs come with more functions than ever. They can unlock doors and start the car remotely and even make chirping sound to help you find it in a parking space. They can also be used to control windows and other features within the vehicle. In addition to these functions keys can be programmed using memory hot keys that connect with specific contacts and navigation destinations.
Many people are unaware that their fob's key has a hidden feature that allows them to open the windows even without entering the car. This feature works by pressing and holding the unlock button on the fob for a couple of seconds before releasing it. If the car has a sunroof, it can be used to operate it. This feature is helpful for drivers who wish to keep their vehicle cool, or for those who are unable to move around and struggle to open the windows manually.
Another feature that isn't widely known is the capability to remotely activate the car's sensors using a button on the fob. This feature is especially useful during bad weather because it can prevent your car from being stolen. This feature can be turned off or switched on via the informationtainment menu.
The key fob is able to control the air conditioning, and even the lights of the car. This can be helpful in the event that you're trying to come out of a difficult situation or make your life easier and faster.
If you have a newer BMW model, the fob contains a hidden feature which allows you to remotely start your vehicle for a certain period of time. The feature isn't enabled by default, and you must enable it through the BMW app or the car's settings. Press and hold the fob lock button for three minutes. Then, you'll hear a sound, and your engine will begin for a short time.
Some fobs have a removable internal key blade which allows you to use it as a backup if your regular key is lost or the battery fails. This feature is also beneficial if you're planning to go on a trip and do not have spares.
Battery replacement
It may be difficult to unlock your BMW and start it when the battery on the key fob is not fully charged. However, this issue can be fixed by following a few easy steps. In most instances it is all that's required to fix the key fob. Many convenience stores and auto parts stores sell the new battery for less than ten dollars. This is a simple DIY car maintenance task that can be completed in a few minutes.
Remove any metal keys prior to you begin. Then, push in small tabs near the center of the fob, and tug the metal valet key out of its slot. This will reveal an opening that allows you to open the case and swap off the old battery. Make use of a small screwdriver to break the fob from its case, and be sure to wrap the screwdriver's head with tape to guard against scratches as you work. The old battery will come out easily and the new one can be placed in its place. The positive side should face down, and the negative side towards your key fob. Reassemble the fob and replace the keys made of metal you removed earlier.
Aside from allowing you to lock and start your vehicle, the key fob also stores important information about your driver and tracks repair and service needs. It is crucial to keep the key fob, and changing the battery is a great method of doing this. This is a straightforward DIY project that will not only help you save money but will also keep your BMW running like new. To find out more about the features of the BMW key fob, or to learn how to find a replacement battery, contact us at Tulley BMW of Nashua today. TheKeyLab to help you!