The Benefits of a BMW 3 Series Key Fob
The BMW Display Key is a key fob with a full-color touchscreen. It has a variety of useful features that can be accessed by swiping the finger.
Most standard BMW key fobs are able to withstand day-to-day humidity levels, so keeping it in your pocket during a rainy day is unlikely to cause any damage. However, it's important to keep your battery current.
Keyless Entry
A BMW key fob does more than unlock your car or start it. It's also an effective security device that can help protect both your vehicle and its contents against theft. This is why it's crucial to keep your BMW key fob charged and paired with your vehicle. It's also crucial to keep it in a secure place when not in use, so that it won't be lost or stolen.
It is likely that you will need to replace your BMW key fob battery at some point during its lifespan. The process is easy. First look for your BMW key fob's ignition switch and make sure it's turned off. Remove the cover on your key fob and carefully remove the previous battery. Replace the old battery with a new one (size CR2032) and then replace the key fob. Press and hold the lock key until you hear the click (without turning off the engine). Once you have done this, your doors will lock and unlock automatically, signalling that the BMW key fob is programmed.
You might also be able to utilize the Comfort Access feature of your BMW which lets you to open and shut it with a keyfob or smartphone. To enable this feature, you'll need an iPhone compatible with the Apple Wallet application. Once you have those things, simply put your iPhone in the Smart Key Tray of your BMW and follow the directions on the Wallet app to pair it with your vehicle's key fob.
You can follow the same procedure to create additional key fobs or an alternative, however you may need to deactivate the current ones first. Keep your BMW keyfob away from water because it could damage the touchscreen. Do not expose the key fob to direct sunlight, as it could permanently cause damage to the display. If you're concerned about your BMW key fob getting hacked or copied, be aware that the security of this device has been designed into it. A sophisticated system will ensure that your vehicle will only unlock when it receives a unique identifying signal that's constantly changing.
Smart Keys
Smart Keys are key fobs that unlock and start your vehicle without the need of an additional key or smartphone. You can also use the app on your smartphone to monitor who's been in your car and at what time.
You can download the app on your smartphone's app store or use the BMW Connected App to log into the Digital Key area. After logging in, you'll be able to view who has access and change any restrictions that may apply.
If you have a key with Smart Keys, you can use it to unlock your BMW's doors remotely. You can also utilize Comfort Access features like automatically locking the doors when you are approaching. The app can be used to set the parking brake. You can also use the app to manage certain functions in your vehicle for example, changing your music volume or adjusting the temperature.
The key blade inside the key fob is standard key size. You can use it to unlock doors manually as well as with Comfort Access. The key is impervious to water and therefore there's no need to be concerned about it getting wet. However, you should be careful not to expose the key to intense sunlight or extreme heat as the key could overheat and cause permanent damage.
Follow these simple steps to program your BMW keyfob so that it works with the app on your phone. First, you'll need to confirm that your phone is compatible with the Digital Key feature. You'll need to download the BMW Connected App, and log in with your iCloud account. Then, you'll need place your iPhone in the tray for your smartphone and follow the instructions to complete activating the BMW Digital Key.
If you want to replace the battery in your BMW key fob, you can do so quickly by removing the backplate and swapping out the CR2032 coin cell battery. Be cautious when trying to remove the backplate, as it is sealed with glue. If you're unsure about doing it yourself, you could contact a professional automotive locksmith for help.
Proximity keys
Proximity keys are the newest advancements in keyless entry systems. They don't require physical contact but instead rely on a proximity detector to identify the key. This enables the driver to open doors and even start the car. This is a convenient method however it does pose some security dangers.
The most significant issue is that they could be stolen as laptops and smartphones. Criminals are able to hack into the system and send the identifying signal to an accomplice who is in close proximity, or they can simply utilize a simple signal amplifier to receive the signal. Some drivers keep their key fobs in a signal blocking pouch or cover to prevent this.
Another issue occurs when drivers do not switch off their car prior to leaving. Leaving the vehicle running while at the grocery store or dropping it into the cup holder could cause it to start running which can lead to theft or carbon monoxide poisoning. Many drivers put their keys in the ignition when they arrive at home, thinking that the vehicle is off. This can lead to theft or, in the case of a hybrid car, carbon monoxide poisoning while the family is asleep.
If the key fob is damaged or the battery is dead, the car will not start, even if you have the key that opens the door. It is important to always have an extra key or smart key duplicated, so that you or a trusted person are able to access your vehicle in the event of emergency.
These issues can be prevented by taking the proper precautions. By being more aware of where you keep your key fob, making sure it is secured and off position before you leave from your vehicle, and by using an alarm to remind you of the things you have to remember to lower the chance of having proximity key-related issues.
BMW's most advanced fob is the Display Key, which comes with an interactive display. This unique key is slightly more susceptible to theft, however it's more secure than conventional BMW fobs. Keep your new BMW Display Key away from water and treat it like you would a smartphone.
Remote Start
If you have a BMW equipped with Remote Start you can use your key fob, or the BMW Connected App to start your vehicle before you get into. This lets you warm up your car on chilly Decatur mornings, or cool your cabin during Pekin commutes. If your BMW did not come with Remote Start, you can add it by purchasing an OEM kit at our parts center and here scheduling the service at your convenience.
Most BMW key fobs have keys that can be removed as well as electronic control modules, which means that you can create a backup copy of your key pressing the button located on the bottom of the fob. This is useful in the event that your fob gets wet or if you're not in the vicinity of an locksmith. Some people also keep a spare key on the fob to ensure that other family members can access their cars without calling our dealership for keyless entry or Comfort Access.
The standard BMW key fob can stand up to a day of rain or a trip in the washing machine. The BMW Display Key with touchscreen however, is more fragile and should not be left in water for too long.
BMW key fobs are capable of storing up to three profiles. This allows you to modify your vehicle settings based on the keys you have. Unlocking the correct fob with your iDrive system will set all relevant settings, from the seat position to radio presets, for the profile you have selected. When you are ready to switch drivers, simply press the lock button on the fob's key twice in one row.
If your BMW key fob isn't functioning correctly, you'll have to change the battery (a size CR2032) inside. Remove the fob's cover and remove the old battery, and insert the new one slowly. You can purchase an alternative BMW battery from our parts department or purchase one online. If your key fob comes with Comfort Access, you will be required to disable the feature and code the vehicle to erase the current key profile before you pair it with a different.