The Benefits of a BMW 3 Series Key Fob
The BMW Display Key is a key fob that comes with a full-color touchscreen. It has a variety of useful features that are accessible by simply swiping your finger.
The majority of BMW key fobs can withstand day-to-day humidity levels, so keeping it in your pocket during a rainy day is unlikely to cause damage. However, it's important to ensure that your battery is up-to-date.
Keyless Entry
A BMW key fob does so much more than just unlock or start your car. It's also a reliable security token that can help protect your vehicle and its contents from theft. That's why it's important to keep your BMW key fob charged and connected to your vehicle. It's also crucial to keep it in a safe place when not in use to ensure it isn't lost or stolen.
It is likely that you will need to replace your BMW key fob battery at some point in its lifecycle. Luckily, the procedure for doing this is straightforward. First find the ignition switch on your BMW key fob, and make sure that it is turned off. Remove the cover on your key fob and carefully remove the old battery. Replace the battery that was removed with a new (size CR2032) and then carefully replace the key fob. After the new battery is in place, press and hold the lock button until you hear the click (without turning off the engine). Once you've done this, your doors will lock and unlock automatically, indicating that the BMW key fob has been programmed.
Your BMW might also come with a feature called Comfort Access that allows you to open and close your car using an accessory key fob or mobile. In order to activate this, you'll need an compatible iPhone and the Apple Wallet app. Once you've got the two, just put your iPhone into the Smart Key Tray in your BMW and follow the steps in the Wallet app.
You can use the same procedure to program additional key fobs or an alternative, but you may need to deactivate the current ones first. Keep your BMW keyfob away from water since it can cause damage to the touchscreen. Be sure to not expose the key fob to direct sunlight as it can permanently harm the display. If you're concerned about your BMW key fob getting hacked, or cloned know that the security of this device is designed into it. A sophisticated system will ensure that your vehicle will only unlock when it receives a unique identifier that is constantly changing.
Smart Keys
Smart Keys are key fobs that unlock and start your vehicle without the requirement of a smartphone or separate key. You can also make use of the app on your smartphone to track who has been in your car, and when.
The app is available 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 check who has access to the area and alter any restrictions that apply.
If you have Smart Keys on your key you can use them to unlock the doors of your BMW remotely and make use of Comfort Access features such as automatically locking the door when you approach. You can also use the app to set your parking brake. You can also make use of the app to control certain functions in your vehicle like changing the volume of your music or climate controls.
The key blade inside the key fob is of standard key size. You can use it to unlock doors by hand and also with Comfort Access. The key is indestructible to water and therefore there's no need to be concerned about it getting wet. But you should avoid exposing the key to intense heat or direct sunlight, as the key can overheat and cause permanent damage.
You can program your BMW key fob to connect to 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 need to download the BMW Connected App, and sign in using your iCloud account. Then, insert your iPhone into the tray of your smartphone. Follow the prompts and activate the BMW Digital Key.
If you're looking to replace the battery in your BMW key fob it is possible to do this quickly by removing the backplate and swapping in the CR2032 coin cell battery. Be cautious when trying to remove the backplate as it's glued. It is always advisable to contact an experienced locksmith in the automotive industry for assistance if you don't feel comfortable doing it yourself.
Proximity Keys
Proximity keys are the newest development in keyless entry systems. They do not 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 technology is convenient, but it also poses some safety dangers.
The main issue is that, similar to laptops and smartphones they are susceptible to theft. Criminals are able to hack into the system to send signals for identification to a nearby accomplice, or use a simple amplifier to receive the signals. Some drivers keep their key fobs in a pouch that blocks signals or cover to combat this.
Another issue occurs when drivers do not switch off their car prior to leaving. If you leave the car running at the store or drop it in more info a cup holder it could start to run and cause carbon monoxide or theft. Many drivers leave their keys in the ignition when they park at home, believing that the vehicle is not running. This could lead to theft or, if you have an electric hybrid vehicle, carbon monoxide even while your family is asleep.
In addition, if the key fob is lost or its battery goes out suddenly, the car will not start even if you have the key to open the door. It is vital to always keep a spare key or smart key duplicated to ensure that you or a trusted friend have access to your vehicle in the event of an emergency.
These issues can be prevented by taking the proper steps. Be more aware of the location of your key fob, making sure it's off and in a locked position prior to leaving from your vehicle and using an alarm to remind you of the things you need to do, you can minimize the chance of proximity key-related issues.
BMW's most sophisticated key, the Display Key with touchscreen display, is the most advanced. This innovative key may be a bit more vulnerable to theft than standard BMW fobs however it is more secure. The best way to protect your new BMW Display Key is to treat it as an ordinary smartphone and keep it away from water.
Remote Start
If you own a BMW equipped with Remote Start, you can use the BMW Connected app or your key fob to start your car before you enter. You can heat your car in the mornings when it's chilly in Decatur or cool down the cabin on Pekin commutes. If your BMW did not come with Remote Start, we can integrate it into your vehicle by purchasing an OEM kit in our parts center.
The button located on the bottom of many BMW key fobs enables you to make an emergency duplicate of your keys. This is useful in occasions when your fob is wet or soaked, or if you're not in the vicinity of a locksmith. Some people also keep a spare key in the fob so that other family members can gain access to their vehicles without having to call our dealership for keyless entry or Comfort Access.
The standard BMW key fob can stand up to the rigors of a day of rain or a trip through 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 can hold up to three driver profiles, which means you can alter your vehicle's settings according to the keys you have with you. Unlocking the correct fob with your iDrive system will set all the relevant settings, from seat position to radio presets for the profile you have selected. If you decide to switch drivers, you can simply press the lock button on the key fob twice in a row.
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 and remove the old battery, then insert the new one gently. You can purchase an alternative BMW battery from our parts department, or purchase one online. If your key fob is equipped with a Comfort Access feature, you'll also need to deactivate it and then code the car to delete your existing key profile before you can pair it with another.