The Benefits of a BMW 3 Series Key Fob
The BMW Display Key goes far beyond the typical key fob by incorporating an all-color touchscreen. It comes with a variety of helpful features that are accessible by a swipe of a finger.
The standard BMW key fobs are designed to withstand normal levels of moisture. Therefore, keeping it in your wallet during a rainy afternoon is unlikely cause any damage. However, it is important to ensure that your battery is up-to-date.
Keyless Entry
A BMW key fob does so more than simply unlock or start your car. It's also a powerful security device that helps protect both your vehicle and its contents from theft. It is therefore essential to keep the BMW key fob charged, and in sync with your vehicle. Keep it in a safe place when not in use to prevent it from being lost or stolen.
Most likely, you'll have to replace the battery in your BMW key fob at some time. The procedure is straightforward. First, locate your BMW key fob's ignition button and make sure it's turned off. Then remove the cover on your key fob and carefully remove the previous battery. Replace it with a brand new one (size CR2032) then reinsert the key fob cover. Press and hold the lock key until you hear the click (without turning off the engine). Once you do that the doors will automatically unlock and lock, signalling that your BMW key fob has been programmed to your vehicle.
Your BMW may also have the Comfort Access feature that lets you open and close your vehicle using an accessory key fob or mobile. In order to activate this you'll require a compatible iPhone and the Apple Wallet app. Once you've got these things you can simply insert your iPhone into the Smart Key Tray of your BMW and follow the instructions in the Wallet app.
You can use the same method to create additional key fobs or an alternative, but you might need to deactivate existing ones first. It's also important to keep your BMW key fob away from water, as the touchscreen could be damaged by it. This includes avoiding exposing it to direct sunlight as the display could be permanently damaged by long-term exposure to UV light. If you're worried about your BMW's key fob being stolen or copied, remember that it was designed with security in mind. A sophisticated system will ensure that your vehicle is only unlocked only when it receives an unique identification signal, which is continuously changes.
Smart Keys
Smart Keys are key fobs that unlock and start your car without the need of an additional key or smartphone. You can also use the app on your smartphone to monitor who has been in your car, and when.
The app is available on your smartphone's app store or by using the BMW Connected App to log in to the Digital Key area. After logging in, you'll be able to see who has access and change any restrictions that apply.
If you have keys that have Smart Keys, you can use it to unlock your BMW's doors remotely and utilize Comfort Access features like automatically locking the doors as you approach. You can even make use of the app to set your parking brake. You can also control a number of functions on your vehicle using the app, such as changing the volume of your music or setting your climate control.
The key fob's internal key blade is a standard key size, and you can use it to unlock the door manually as well as use Comfort Access features. The key is indestructible to water so there's no reason to worry about it getting wet. However, you should be careful not to expose the key to intense sunlight or extreme heat because the key may overheat and cause permanent damage.
You can program your BMW key fob to work with the app on your smartphone by following a few easy steps. First, you'll need ensure that your smartphone is compatible with the Digital Key feature. You'll then need to download the BMW Connected App, and sign in using your iCloud account. Then, you'll need place your iPhone in the tray for your smartphone and follow the prompts to complete activating the BMW Digital Key.
If you want to replace the battery in your BMW key fob it is possible to do this quickly by removing the backplate and swapping out the CR2032 coin cell battery. Be careful when attempting to pry off the backplate, as it is sealed with glue. If you're unsure about doing it yourself, you could always call a professional automotive locksmith for help.
Proximity Keys
Proximity keys are the newest development in keyless entry systems. Instead of requiring a physical contact, they make use of a proximity sensor to identify the key and permit the driver to unlock the doors and start the engine. This technology is convenient however it does pose some safety dangers.
The main problem is that they could be stolen, just like smartphones and laptops. Criminals are able to hack into the system and send the identification signal to a person who is nearby, or they can simply utilize a simple signal amplifier to receive the signal. To stop this, some drivers choose to keep their key fob in a pouch that blocks signals or cover.
Another problem is when drivers do not switch off their car prior to leaving. If they leave the car on while shopping at the store or dropping it into a cup holder can cause it to start running, resulting in theft or carbon monoxide poisoning. Many drivers forget to put their keys in the ignition when they park at home, believing that the car is off. This could lead to theft, or in the case of a hybrid car carbon monoxide poisoning, while the family rests.
If the key fob is lost or the battery dies, the car will not start even if you possess the key to unlock the door. It is vital to always have a spare key or a smart key duplicated, so that you or a trusted companion can access your vehicle in case of emergency.
Fortunately the problem can be overcome with the proper steps. By being more aware of where you keep your key fob, making sure that it's off and locked position before you walk away from your car and using an alarm to remind you of things you have to remember and lower the chance of having proximity key related problems.
BMW's most sophisticated fob, the Display Key with touchscreen display, is the most advanced. The innovative key is somewhat more vulnerable to theft, but it's still more secure than traditional BMW fobs. Keep your brand new BMW Display Key away from water and treat it the same way you would treat a smartphone.
Remote Start
If you drive a BMW equipped with Remote Start or Remote Start, you can make use of the BMW Connected app or your key fob to start your car before you get inside. You can warm your car in the mornings, when it's cold in Decatur or cool down the cabin during Pekin commutes. If your BMW didn't have Remote Start, you can add it by purchasing an OEM kit at our parts center and scheduling the service at your convenience.
The majority of BMW key fobs come with a removable key blade in addition to the electronic control modules. This means that you can create a backup copy click here of your key by using the button on the bottom of the fob. This can be useful for times when your fob gets wet, or when you're far from an locksmith. Some people keep a spare car key on their fobs to allow family members to access their cars without having to contact our dealership for Comfort Access or keyless entry.
The standard BMW key fob can stand up to the rigors of a day of rain or a trip in the washing machine. The BMW Display Key with touchscreen, however, is more delicate and should not be kept in water for too long.
BMW key fobs hold up to three driver profiles, so you can modify the settings of your car based on the keys you have with you. When you unlock the correct fob, your iDrive system will set all the relevant settings, from the seat position to radio presets for the profile you have selected. When you want to change drivers, you simply need to press the lock button twice on the key fob.
If your BMW key fob isn't functioning properly, you'll need to change the battery (a size CR2032) inside. Remove the cover of the fob, remove the old battery, and insert the new one with care. You can purchase a replacement BMW battery from our parts department or order one on the internet. If your key fob is equipped with Comfort Access, you will also have to disable the feature and then code the vehicle to remove your current key profile prior to you pair it with another.