The Benefits of a BMW 3 Series Key Fob
The BMW Display Key is a key fob that includes a full-color touchscreen. It offers a number of useful features that can be accessed with the swipe of the finger.
The standard BMW key fobs are built to withstand normal levels of moisture. So, putting it in your wallet during rainy days is unlikely to cause any damage. But it is crucial to keep your battery up-to-date.
Keyless Entry
A BMW key fob can do so more than unlock your car or start it. It's also a highly secure security device that can help protect both 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 place when it's not in use to avoid it from being lost or stolen.
It's likely that you'll need to replace your BMW key fob battery at some point in its lifespan. The procedure is simple. First find the ignition switch on your BMW key fob and make sure it's off. Take the key fob off and remove it carefully from the battery. Replace the old battery with new (size CR2032) and then carefully replace the key fob. 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, indicating that your BMW key fob is now programmed to your vehicle.
You might also be able to use the Comfort Access feature on your BMW, which allows you to open and close the door using a key fob or smartphone. To enable this feature, you'll need an iPhone compatible with the Apple Wallet application. Once you've got these items you can simply insert your iPhone into the Smart Key Tray in your BMW and follow the steps in the Wallet app.
The same process can be used to program a replacement or additional key fobs but you'll need to deactivate the existing ones first. It's also important to keep your BMW key fob clear of water since the touchscreen could be damaged by water. This means avoiding exposing it to direct sunlight as the display can be permanently damaged by long-term exposure to UV light. If you're worried about your BMW's key fob getting stolen or copied, remember that it's designed with security in mind. A sophisticated system ensures that your car only unlocks when it receives a specific identification signal that continuously changes.
Smart Keys Keys
A key fob that has Smart Keys functionality is able to unlock your vehicle and allow it to start without the requirement of a separate key or smartphone. You can use your smartphone's app to track who is in your car when.
The app is available in the app store of your smartphone or use the BMW Connected App to log in to the Digital Key area. After logging in you'll be able view who has access and change any restrictions that apply.
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 also use the app to control your parking brake. You can also control some functions of your car using the app, for example, adjusting your music volume or setting your climate control.
The key fob's inner key blade is a standard size key and you can use it to open the door manually as well as use Comfort Access features. The key is indestructible to water so there's no reason to be concerned about it getting wet. It is recommended not to expose the key to direct sunlight or extreme heat because it can overheat.
You can program your BMW key fob to connect to the app on your smartphone by following a few simple steps. First, you'll need to confirm that your phone is compatible for the Digital Key feature. After that, you'll need to download the BMW Connected App and sign to your iCloud account. Then, place your iPhone into the smartphone tray. Follow the prompts and activate the BMW Digital Key.
You can easily replace the CR2032 battery in your BMW keyfob by removing its backplate. Be cautious when attempting to pry off the backplate, since it's glued. It is always advisable to contact an expert automotive locksmith for assistance in case you aren't comfortable doing it yourself.
Proximity keys
Proximity keys are the latest advancement in keyless car entry systems. They don't require physical contact but instead rely on a proximity detector to identify the key. This enables the driver to unlock doors and even start the car. While this technology can be practical, it comes with some safety dangers.
A key problem is that, just like smartphones and laptops they are susceptible to theft. Criminals can access the system and transmit the identification signal to an accomplice sitting nearby or utilize a simple signal amplifier to detect the signal. To combat this, some drivers opt to keep their key fobs in a pouch with a signal blocker or cover.
Another problem is that drivers may not remember to shut off the vehicle before leaving it. The vehicle being left running while at the grocery store or dropping it into a cup holder can cause it to start running, resulting in theft or carbon monoxide poisoning. It is also typical for drivers to check here put their keys in the ignition after parking at home, assuming they have turned the car off. This could lead to theft, or in the case of a hybrid car carbon monoxide poisoning as the family rests.
If the key fob is lost or the battery fails, the car will not start, even if you own the key needed to open the door. It is essential to always have a spare key or a smart key duplicated to ensure that you or a trusted friend are able to access your vehicle in case of emergency.
Fortunately they can be overcome with the appropriate precautions. Be more aware of the location of your key fob, and making sure that it's secured and off position before you leave from your car and using an alarm to remind you of what you have to remember and lower the chance of having proximity key related problems.
BMW's most advanced fob is the Display Key, which comes with an interactive display. The new key is somewhat more vulnerable to theft than conventional BMW fobs, but it is still more secure. The best method to safeguard your new BMW Display Key is to treat it like an iPhone and keep it away from water.
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 car prior to getting into. You can heat up your car in the mornings, when it's cold in Decatur or cool the cabin during Pekin commutes. If your BMW did not have Remote Start, we can include it in your car by purchasing an OEM kit at our parts center.
The majority of BMW key fobs feature an adjustable key blade in addition to the electronic control modules. This means that you can create a backup duplicate of your key pressing the button on the bottom of the fob. This is handy when your fob is soaked or if you are not close to an locksmith. Some people keep a spare car key in their fob to allow family members to access their cars without having to call our dealership to request Comfort Access or keyless entry.
The standard BMW key fob is highly resistant to moisture, so it's able to stand up to 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 kept in water for too long.
BMW key fobs are capable of storing up to three profiles. This allows you to alter the settings of your car based on the keys you've got. Unlocking the correct fob with your iDrive system will set all the relevant settings, from the seat location to radio presets for the profile you have selected. If you want to change drivers, you simply need to press the lock button twice on your key fob.
If your BMW key fob isn't working properly, you'll require replacing the battery (size CR2032) within. Remove the cover of the fob, remove the old batteries, and gently insert the new batteries. You can purchase a new BMW key battery from our parts department, or order a new one online. If your key fob is equipped with Comfort Access, you will be required to disable the feature and code the vehicle to delete your current key profile prior to you pair it with a different.