The Benefits of a BMW 3 Series Key Fob
The BMW Display Key goes far beyond the ordinary key fob with the full-color touchscreen. It is equipped with a variety of useful features that are accessible by swiping the finger.
Most standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand day-to-day humidity levels, so putting it in your pocket on a rainy day is unlikely to cause any damage. It is essential to keep the battery updated.
Keyless Entry
A BMW key fob does much more than just unlock or start your car. It's also a potent security token that can help protect your vehicle and its contents from theft. It is therefore essential to keep the BMW key fob charged and connected to your car. Keep it in a safe location when not in use to prevent it from getting lost or stolen.
Almost certainly, you'll have to replace the battery on your BMW key fob at some time. Luckily, the process to do this is easy. First, locate the ignition switch on your BMW key fob and ensure it's off. Remove the key fob cover and carefully remove the previous battery. Replace it with a brand new one (size CR2032) and then insert the cover back into the key fob. Press and hold the lock key until you hear a click (without turning the engine on). Once you have completed this, your doors will be locked and unlock automatically, signalling that the BMW key fob has been programmed.
You might also be able to utilize the Comfort Access feature of your BMW which lets you to open and close the door with a keyfob or smartphone. To activate this feature, you'll need an compatible iPhone and the Apple Wallet app. Once you've got the two then simply place your iPhone into the Smart Key Tray of your BMW and follow the instructions in the Wallet app.
The same method can be used to program replacement or additional key fobs, though you may have to disable the existing ones first. It's also important to keep your BMW key fob away from water since the touchscreen can be damaged by water. This includes avoiding exposing it to direct sunlight since the display could be permanently damaged by long-term exposure to UV light. If you're concerned about your BMW key fob being hacked, or cloned be aware that the security of this device is constructed into it. A sophisticated system will ensure that your vehicle unlocks only when it receives an unique identifying signal that's constantly changing.
Smart Keys
A key fob that has Smart Keys functionality is able to unlock your car and allow it to start without the requirement of a separate key or smartphone. You can also use the app on your phone to keep track of who has been in your car and at what time.
You can download the app from your phone's app stores, or log in using the BMW Connected App. Once you've logged in, it will be possible to view who has access and alter any restrictions.
If you have keys with Smart Keys, you can use it to open your BMW's doors remotely and utilize Comfort Access features like automatically locking the doors when you come closer. You can use the app to set the parking brake. You can also make use of the app to control certain functions in your vehicle for example, changing the volume of your music or climate controls.
The key fob's blade is a standard key size that you can use it to unlock the door manually as well as utilize Comfort Access features. The key is water resistant which means you don't have to be concerned about it getting wet. But it is important to avoid exposing the key to intense heat or direct sunlight as the key could overheat and cause permanent damage.
You can program your BMW key fob to work with the app on your smartphone by following a few simple steps. You'll first need to ensure that your phone is compatible for the Digital Key feature. Then, you'll have to download the BMW Connected App and sign into your iCloud account. Then, insert your iPhone into the tray of your smartphone. Follow the steps and activate the BMW Digital Key.
You can easily replace the CR2032 battery in your BMW keyfob by removing its backplate. Be careful when prying off the backplate because it's secured by glue. You can always call an experienced locksmith in the automotive industry to assist you should you feel uncomfortable doing it yourself.
Proximity Keys
Proximity keys represent the latest technology in keyless entry systems. Instead of requiring physical contact, they make use of proximity sensors to identify the key, allowing the driver to open the doors and start the engine. While this technology is convenient, it does present certain safety risks.
The main issue is that, just like smartphones and laptops they are also susceptible to being stolen. Criminals can access the system and transmit the identification signal to a person who is nearby or make use of a signal amplifier to receive the signal. Some drivers keep their key fobs in a pouch that blocks signals or cover to prevent this.
Another issue is that drivers might forget to turn off the vehicle before leaving it. If you leave the vehicle running at the shop or place it in a cup holder, it may begin to run and cause theft or carbon monoxide. Many drivers leave their keys in the ignition when they arrive at home, assuming that the vehicle is off. This can lead to theft or, in the case of a hybrid vehicle, carbon monoxide poisoning while the family is asleep.
In addition, if the key fob gets lost or the battery fails unexpectedly, the car won't start even if you have the key to open the door. It is important to have a spare smart key or spare key made so that you or a trusted person can gain access to your vehicle in case of emergency.
These problems can be avoided by taking the appropriate precautions. By being more aware of the location of your key fob, making sure that it's off and locked position before you leave from the car and using an alarm to remind you of the things you need to do and minimize the chance of proximity key related problems.
BMW's most sophisticated fob is the Display Key, which comes with an LCD touchscreen. The new key is somewhat more vulnerable to theft than conventional BMW fobs however it is more secure. Keep your brand new BMW Display Key away from water and treat it as you would treat a smartphone.
Remote Start
If you drive a BMW with Remote Start and Remote Start, you are able to make use of the BMW Connected app or your key fob to start your car before you even enter. You can warm your car in the mornings when it's cold in Decatur or cool down the cabin on Pekin commutes. If your BMW didn't come with Remote Start, you can add it by purchasing an OEM kit click here from our parts center and scheduling the service at your convenience.
The button located on the bottom of many BMW key fobs allows you to create an emergency copy of your keys. This is handy when your fob is soaked or if you're not near a locksmith. Some people keep an extra car key on their fobs to allow family members to access their cars without having to contact our dealership to request Comfort Access or keyless entry.
The standard BMW key fob is very resistant to moisture, so it is able to withstand an afternoon in the rain or an excursion to the washing machine. However, the BMW Display Key with touchscreen is a bit more delicate and should not be left in the water long enough.
BMW key fobs can accommodate up to three driver profiles, which means you can customize your vehicle's settings according to which keys you have with you. The iDrive system will unlock the appropriate fob, and then set all the relevant settings for that profile, including the seat position and radio presets. Then, when you want to switch drivers, you can simply press the lock button on your fob's key twice in one row.
If your BMW key fob isn't working correctly, you'll have to replace the battery (size CR2032) within. Remove the fob's cover and then remove the battery, then insert the new one gently. You can buy a replacement BMW key battery in our parts department, or you can purchase a new one on the internet. If your key fob is equipped with Comfort Access, you will also need to deactivate the feature and program the vehicle to erase the current key profile before you pair it with a different.