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Bowen Coley posted an update 1 year, 7 months ago
How to Find a Replacement BMW Key
There are many advantages that come with owning a BMW that make it more than just a car. However, sometimes the key that opens your doors can become a pain.
Luckily, there are replacement BMW keys available on the market to aid! Keys can be mechanical or keyless.
Mechanical keys
You activate a physical switch beneath every keycap when you type on a mechanical keyboard. These switches are spring loaded, which means that when you press down a key you’ll feel it and hear the “clicking” sound that will inform you that the key was struck hard enough to register with your computer.
There are a variety of types of mechanical keysavailable, each with their own advantages and drawbacks. You can locate the perfect one for you in a variety of styles and colors.
Tactile Switches (Clicky) They’re the loudest and most noticeable of all switches, and they’re ideal for people who require extra feedback while they’re typing fast. However, they take more energy than linear switches to operate, which can cause your fingers to wear down faster.
Linear Switches Linear switches are the most well-known type of mechanical keyboard switches, and they’re also the easiest to operate. The action point of these switches is approximately 2.0mm deep making them more comfortable to use than clicky or tactile switches.
These switches are also the most reliable. Although they’re a bit more expensive than other kinds of keys, they’re more resistant to damage and scratches caused by everyday use.
There are also mechanical keyboards with hot-swappable switches. This is a great choice for anyone who needs to change the type or switch they use, and not have to buy a new keyboard.
Regardless of what kind of switches you decide to use it is important to make sure they’re compatible with the particular computer system. Luckily, most computers have an internal “keyboard emulator” that can convert the keys on your computer to switches on your keyboard, so you can use them with your mechanical keyboard.
If you’re planning to play using your mechanical keyboard it is important to know whether it’s programmable keys. This allows you to create shortcuts and other combinations of keys that will reduce your overall time spent on keystrokes and boost your efficiency while typing.
Some programmable keyboards even have a gaming function which lets you configure shortcuts and other settings for your preferred games. A mechanical keyboard that is programmable is a fantastic tool to enhance your gaming experience, regardless of how skilled or novice you are.
Comfort Access Keys
The BMW comfort access system makes it simple to unlock and start your car without using keys. The proximity sensors on the door handles recognize your remote key fob at an approximate distance of 5 feet, so you are able to unlock your vehicle with a single finger.
Comfort access is standard on all the newer BMWs, and there’s an upgrade available for older models. It’s a great way to make life easier when you’re on the go, and it’s also incredibly convenient to park in.
It can be a little difficult to use at first however once you get the hang of it you’ll discover it’s much easier to park your BMW than it has ever been. Simply approach the vehicle and then place your hands on the handle to unlock the trunk and doors.
You can also store your seats, steering wheels and mirror settings in this keyless entry system so they’re ready when you return home. The key fob makes it easy to alter the windows or the sunroof by pressing one button.
Comfort access can be used by criminals to steal your vehicle. To make it harder for thieves to unlock your vehicle the identification code broadcast by the remote key fob changes frequently, making it nearly impossible to crack.
Another security concern is the fact that the signal from your key is only acknowledged if it is within 5 feet of your car. If someone is able to be close enough to your key , they could be able hack it and gain remote access to the car.
If this sounds like it could be a problem for you, contact us today to arrange a complimentary consultation with one of our BMW technicians. They will assist you in understanding your options, and answer any questions you have regarding comfort access.
BimmerTech’s comfort access retrofit kit includes 2 or 4 specially designed handles that have remote sensors that can recognize your key at 5 feet. The handles are easy to install and operate, with no programming required. They can be professionally painted in any BMW color, so they’ll be a perfect match to your car. Depending on the number of handles are ordered, the installation can take around an hour.
Transponder Keys
The BMW transponder keys can be used to identify your vehicle and are part of the car’s security system against theft. They send low-level signals to both the immobilizer and engine. If the system fails to detect these signals, the car will not start.
Transponder keys are used as security measures to prevent theft on all cars made within the last 20 years. They can also be used in conjunction with keyless entry systems for homes and gates, as well as garage door remotes.
The serial number associated with your new key matches the code that is sent by the car’s immobilizer. The code is scanned and transferred to your new key, then you can use it for locking and unlocking your vehicle.
Different from standard car keys that are just a metallic cylinder inserted into the ignition Transponder keys are constructed with an electronic microchip that comes with an antenna ring attached to the. The ring emits an electronic signal when the key is put into the ignition and the chip absorbs the energy and transmits the signal in the form of radio frequency to the vehicle’s immobilizer.
This information is transmitted directly to the vehicle’s computer, which determines if your key matches the correct serial number. If it does, the car will begin to run immediately. If it doesn’t, it will attempt again until it gets the right signal and starts.
The first keys of this kind were introduced on BMW automobiles in 1998 and they’re still in use to this day. They provide security that is high and various advantages, such as keyless entry and push-to-start ignitions.
The Comfort Access system in some BMWs can eliminate needing to look for your keys in your bag or pocket, allowing you to simply approach the car and press a button on the driver’s door to unlock it. The Comfort Access system uses wireless proximity sensor technology to identify your BMW key, regardless of where it might be in your purse or pocket.
Replacing the BMW transponder key isn’t an easy job since it requires a special machine that needs to be used to cut your new key and programming it to work with the immobilizer in your car. Typically, the dealerships will be the best place to go to complete this task because they’re equipped with all the tools needed and software to create a new key that will function properly in conjunction with your vehicle’s system.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are found in certain BMW models. They provide additional security features to reduce theft. They can disable security features, like alarms and remote locks. This protects your wallet and belongings and helps to prevent the car from being stolen.
A majority of valet key fobs come with a rechargeable battery, which allows you to start your car even if your battery is dead. If this happens, you can utilize your valet key to open the door on the driver’s side to gain access to the hood release. This way, you’ll be able to get the battery replaced and get your car running once more.
This kind of key comes with certain disadvantages that could make you think twice about using it. The biggest problem with valet keys, however they are prone to theft.
In this regard, it is recommended to only give the valet your key in the event that you are sure you’ll be returning to the same vehicle. Maintaining a spare set keys in your vehicle is also an excellent idea.
You can also use your smartphone to unlock your car so provided that it supports Express mode. This lets you unlock the doors without having to enter your security code or using fingerprints or FaceID.
The most appealing aspect is that you are able to store your BMW Digital Key on an iPhone, Apple Watch or Android smartphone. It works with any vehicle factory-equipped with Comfort Access and iDrive 7.0 or higher.
If you lose your key fob, or it stops working you can make use of your smartphone to begin the engine. These are some of the best ways to safeguard your car from thieves.
Some people prefer to leave their vehicle at the garage even when they’re not driving it. This is especially true if they have expensive items that they want to store in the trunk or in the glove box. bmw key fob replacement is an excellent alternative to traditional keys.