How to Find a Replacement BMW Key
There are many benefits that are associated with having a BMW that makes it feel more than just a car. But there are times when the key that opens your doors can become a pain.
There are, thankfully, replacement BMW keys available on the market to help! These keys are mechanical or keyless.
Mechanical keys
When you type on mechanical keyboards it activates a physical switch that is located underneath each keycap. These switches are spring-loaded which means that when you press the key you'll feel it as well as hear an "clicking" sound to inform you that the key was pressed hard enough to register with your computer.
There are many kinds of mechanical keys. Each one has its own advantages and disadvantages. They're available in a wide range of styles and colors, so you can pick the most appropriate one for your needs.
Tactile Switches (Clicky): These are the most loud and noticeable of all switches and they're great for typists who require extra feedback while they're typing fast. However, they take more energy than linear switches to operate, and can cause your fingers to wear down sooner.
Linear Switches: These are the most commonly used type of mechanical keyboard switches, and they're the easiest to operate. The actuator point of these switches is at around 2.0mm deep making them more comfortable to use than clicky or tactile switches.
These switches are also the most durable of all the alternatives. Although they're costlier than other kinds of keys but they're also more resistant to damage and scratches from daily use.
You can also purchase mechanical keyboards with hot-swappable switch. This is a great option for those who need to change the type of keyboard or switch they use and not needing to purchase an entirely new keyboard.
No matter what type of switches you pick regardless of the type, you'll need to make sure that they're compatible with the particular computer system. Fortunately, the majority of computers have an internal "keyboard emulator" which converts the keys of 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 you'll want to check whether or not it's programmed keys. This lets you create shortcuts or other combinations that will reduce the time required to type and increase efficiency when typing.
Certain keyboards come with a gaming feature that lets you define the shortcuts and other settings you want to use for your most loved video games. It doesn't matter if you're an beginner or a seasoned player, a mechanical keyboard that is programmable can improve your gaming workflow and reduce the amount of mistakes you make while gaming.
Comfort Access Keys
The BMW comfort access system makes it simple to unlock and start your vehicle without a key. The proximity sensors located in the door handles recognize your remote key fob at 5 feet, which means you can unlock your vehicle with a single finger.
Comfort access is standard on newer BMWs and an optional upgrade on older ones. It's a great way to make life easier traveling and it's also convenient to park in.
It's a difficult to use at first, but once you get the hang of it you'll find it's a lot easier to park your BMW than it has ever been. All you have to do is get in front of the vehicle, then place your fingers on a door handle, and the key will unlock the doors and trunk.
This keyless entry system also lets you save your seat steering wheel, seat, and mirror settings to ensure they're available when you arrive home. keys for bmw allows you to alter the windows or the sunroof by pressing a 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 your remote key fob change often, making it virtually 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 keys, they could be able to hack it and gain remote access to the car.
If this is the case, it could be a problem for you, contact us to set up a no-cost consultation with one of our BMW technicians. They can assist you in understanding the options available to you and answer any questions you may have about comfort access.
The comfort-access retrofit kit from BimmerTech includes two or four specially designed handles with remote sensors. The remote sensors are able to detect your key from a distance of approximately 5ft. The handles are easy to install and use, with no programming required. They're professionally painted in any available BMW color to match your car perfectly. The process of installation takes around an hour, based on the number of handles you choose.
Transponder Keys
BMW transponder keys belong to your vehicle and form part of your car's security system to prevent theft. They function by sending low-level signals to the engine and immobilizer which stop the car from starting until it recognizes these signals.
Most cars built since 20 years ago come with these transponder keys as part of their anti-theft security features. They can also be used with keyless entry systems for homes and gates and garage door remotes.
The serial number that is assigned to your new key matches the code sent by the vehicle's immobilizer. The code is scanned before being transferred to your new key, which you then use it to unlock and lock your vehicle.
Different from standard car keys which are just a metal piston that is inserted in the ignition, transponder keys are made using an electronic microchip that has a built-in antenna ring on the end. The ring emits an indication when the key is inserted into the ignition and the chip absorbs the energy and sends the signal in the form of radio frequency to the vehicle's immobilizer.
The information is then sent to the vehicle's computer system and it determines whether the key matches with the correct serial number to start your vehicle. Your car will instantly start in the event that it matches the serial number. If it doesn’t start, it will attempt until it receives the right signal and then it will start.
These keys were first introduced to BMW cars in 1998 and are still being used to this day. They are extremely secure and offer a number of benefits including keyless entry, push-to-start ignitions and much more.
The Comfort Access system in some BMWs makes it easier to stop searching for your keys in your purse or pocket and allows you to step into the car and press the driver's door to unlock it. The Comfort Access system uses wireless proximity sensors to recognize your BMW key wherever it is in your bag or pocket.
It's not easy to replace BMW transponder key. This is due to the need for an specialized machine to cut the new key and program it to work with your car's immobilizer. Typically, the dealerships will be the best place to go for this kind of work because they're equipped with all the required tools and software to make a new key that works with the car's system.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a choice in some BMW models that come with additional security features that help to prevent theft. They block certain security features like alarms and remote locks. This can help prevent the car from being stolen , and can help protect your belongings and wallet.
Some valet key fobs come with a rechargeable battery that allows you to start the vehicle even if the battery dies. You can use the valet keys to open the driver's doors and access the release of the hood. This way, you can have the battery replaced and have your car back in operation.
There are however some disadvantages to this kind of key that can make you think twice about using it. The most significant issue with valet keys, however, is their vulnerability to theft.
For this reason, it is recommended to only give the valet the key when you know that you will be back in the same vehicle. Keeping a spare set of keys in your vehicle is also an excellent idea.
In addition you can also use your smartphone to unlock your car as long as it supports "Express mode." This lets you unlock the doors without entering your security code, or using fingerprints or FaceID.
The most appealing aspect is that you can keep your BMW Digital Key on an iPhone, Apple Watch or Android smartphone. It works with any car equipped with Comfort Access and iDrive 7.0.
You can also use your smartphone to start the engine if you lose your key fob or stops working. These are among the best ways to safeguard your car from thieves.
Some people prefer to leave their cars in garages even when they're not in the car. This is especially true when they own expensive items they wish to keep in the trunk or glove box. A valet key is a great alternative to traditional keys.