Troubleshooting Problems With BMW Keys Before the i8 and 7 Series, BMW keys were pretty clunky black plastic rectangles that had to be inserted into the ignition slot to unlock and start the car. The digital key revolutionized everything. However, can it be hacked? Can you use a keyfob which is not authentic to activate Comfort Access on your BMW? Keyless entry If you've had the privilege of driving in a BMW car for long, you're probably familiar with keyless entry and remote starting. These features are convenient and also help to make driving safer. You can even lock and unlock your vehicle from the convenience of your home, when you have the right apps on your phone. But just like every new technology keys have certain quirks that can be confusing. For instance, many BMW owners are concerned about whether their key fob is hackable. BMWs are designed to be secure and therefore are nearly impossible to hack. The system is based on sending a distinct identification signal from your key fob to the vehicle, which is later confirmed and permitted to unlock. This means that a third-party cannot clone or make use of a signal amplifier in order to gain access to your car. The BMW fob is typically put to sleep. The fob will go to sleep if it's not operated for a predetermined amount of time. This is to conserve battery power and also prevent the car from opening when it shouldn't. However the key fob can function in the ignition when it's again pressed. In addition to the keyless entry, the BMW key fob can also lock and unlock the vehicle, or enable the automatic transmission on cars with manual shifters. The BMW key fob also controls features of comfort, such as the steering wheel, seat, and mirror adjustments. It also stores personal settings, like the presets for radios and seat positions, and allow owners to unlock their BMW using the MyBMW app on their smartphones. The BMW key fob can also be used to unlock the trunk or to activate a push button starter in certain models. To do this, press the button at the bottom of the fob until it sounds. Insert the key into the trunk opening and pull it down to unlock the trunk. The BMW key fob is also capable of controlling the car's media system and climate control. Electronic immobilizer The engine immobilizer, a security feature, helps prevent car thefts by ensuring that only the correct keys can be used to start the car. It does this by checking that the key's code matches the one stored in the computer. If the codes match, the engine will be allowed to start. This system has been in operation for more than 20 years and it has greatly reduced the number of stolen vehicles. It's also a great method to avoid hotwiring, which is the process of bypassing the ignition switch by connecting wires between the ignition coil and the fuel pump relay. The immobilizer is a part of the key fob or key which contains a transponder chip. The chip transmits a passcode from the key fob or key to the immobilizer system in the car and is integrated into the PCM (or BCM), instrument cluster and smart junction boxes or other modules. The immobilizer unit checks the passcode and allows the engine to start if it is valid. Modern keys and transponder chips employ a cryptographic algorithm to ensure that the code is transmitted only once and only to the authorized key fob or key. These algorithms are designed to be difficult for hackers to decode. https://www.thekeylab.co.uk/bmw-car-keys/ is protected against remote key replication, which is a frequent occurrence when cars are stolen. If the immobilizer does not recognize the code on the key or fob, it will sound an alarm. It will also shut down the ignition coil, or injectors, depending on the type of engine in your car. The engine will begin to run for a short period of time, then shut down. It is impossible to leave the vehicle. Immobilizers are a fantastic security device that has reduced vehicle thefts through the prevention of hot wiring. However, it is not foolproof, and many thieves have come up with ways to thwart the immobilizer. One of these methods is using a laptop to decode the cryptographic algorithm which is possible using the use of a specific software program. A device can be used to alter the code of the key or transponder chip. You can accomplish this by purchasing an "transponder-reader" on the internet. These tools don't perform every time however, they can be useful in some cases. Replace the battery If your BMW key fob isn't performing as well as it did in the past and you're in need of a new battery. It's simple to replace the battery in your BMW and shouldn't take more than 30 minutes. The first step is to remove the key made of metal from the fob. Then, press the key into a shallower section to open the backing of the fob. Then, take out the old batteries and replace them with new ones. You can find CR2450 Batteries in most supermarkets and petrol stations. There are various ways to change the battery based on the kind of BMW key you own. For instance, if you have the BMW Smart Key, it uses a rechargeable battery that charges when it is inserted into ignition. The battery isn't replaceable without cutting through the case. You'll need to call your local BMW dealer. Many BMW models from 2011 to 2017 feature the sleek slant-shaped key battery, which is also called a watch battery. It is possible to replace the battery by pressing a button close to the spot where the key comes out of its case, and then removing the cover. A small groove inside this opening will show up, and you can make use of a valet key or screwdriver to turn the groove clockwise in order to remove the cover. After the cover is removed, you can remove the battery that died and replace it with a new one. You can tell that your BMW key fob's battery is going bad when you observe that the signal range of the device has diminished. Normally, you should be able to unlock your car from a distance of between 30 and 60 feet. If you're unable to get any further than 20 feet then it's time to replace the battery. A drained or faulty battery will also stop the remote starter from functioning. This is an important security feature in a lot of vehicles, so you should replace the battery as quickly as you can. If you own a BMW with a push button start, you'll need go to the dealer to program the new key fob and then sync additional fobs to the vehicle. Replace the key BMW is a lux car manufacturer that offers many models that come with various features. They are renowned for their comfort, style and performance. But, sometimes even the most expensive vehicles can be a problem. A common issue is the key fob, which could stop working at any time. This can be a very frustrating experience, especially if you are in a hurry to get to a destination. The best solution to address this issue is to replace the battery on your BMW key fob. This is a simple procedure that can be performed at home. The only downside is that it could take some time. To make the process more simple you can buy a replacement key and fob on the internet from a company that specializes in BMW keys. You won't have to wait in line at the dealership for an alternative key. BMW key fobs are available in various styles based on the model. The most recent ones utilize a Smart Key, which is an advanced device that allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle and also start it at the touch of one button. These are usually more robust than older BMW keys, but the battery must be replaced when it runs out. Older BMWs, which are still in many driveways in Decatur, may use a Bladed Key or a Non-Comfort Access Key. The Bladed Key is a metal key inserted into the ignition. The Non-Comfort Access Keys were used on certain X3 E83 vehicles between 1996 between 1996 and 2011. They use a key that has an indentation on the side. You'll require an screwdriver to remove the dead battery from this kind of key. Then, you can insert the new battery into the holder or clip. Be careful not to damage the circuit board or plastic of the keyfob. Once you have the new battery then you can turn the key to position 1 and then insert it into the ignition. The car should begin to start and all the lights and other equipment should be activated. If this doesn't work, you may need to repeat the procedure.