The Benefits of a BMW 3 Series Key Fob
The BMW Display Key goes far beyond the ordinary key fob by including an all-color touchscreen. It comes with a variety of useful features that can be accessible with a swipe of a finger.
The standard BMW key fobs are made to withstand normal levels of moisture. So, putting it in your wallet during a rainy afternoon is unlikely cause any damage. But it is crucial to keep your battery current.
Keyless Entry
A BMW key fob does so much more than just unlock or start your car. It's also an effective security device that can help protect both your vehicle and its contents from theft. It is important to keep your BMW key fob charged and paired with your vehicle. Keep it in a secure location when not in use to protect it from getting lost or stolen.
You'll almost certainly have to replace your BMW key fob battery at some point during its lifecycle. Luckily, the procedure to do this is easy. First, locate your BMW key fob's ignition switch, and make sure it's turned 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. Once the new battery is in place, press and hold the lock button until you hear a click (without activating the engine). After you've done this, the doors will be locked and unlock instantly, indicating that the BMW key fob has been programmed.
You may also be able use the Comfort Access feature of your BMW, which allows you to open and close the door using a key fob or smartphone. To use this feature, you'll require an iPhone compatible with the Apple Wallet application. Once you've got these things, just put your iPhone into the Smart Key Tray of your BMW and follow the instructions in the Wallet app.
You can follow the same method to program additional key fobs or an alternative, however you might have to disable the existing ones first. Keep your BMW key fob out of water since it can cause damage to the touchscreen. Avoid exposing the key fob to direct sunlight since it could permanently damage the display. 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 will ensure that your vehicle unlocks only when it receives an unique identifier that is constantly changing.
Smart Keys Keys
A key fob that is equipped with Smart Keys functionality is able to unlock your car and start it up without the requirement of an additional key or smartphone. You can also utilize the app on your smartphone to monitor who's been in your car and when.
The app is available on the app store for your smartphone or use the BMW Connected App to log in to the Digital Key area. After you have logged in, it is possible to see who has access and modify any restrictions.
If you have a key with Smart Keys, you can use it to open the doors of your BMW remotely and utilize Comfort Access features like automatically locking the doors when you are approaching. You can also use the app to set your parking brake. You can also control some functions on your vehicle using the app, such as changing the volume of your music or setting your climate control.
The key fob's key blade is standard key size that you can use it to open the door manually, as well as make use of Comfort Access features. The key is indestructible to water and therefore there's no need to fret about it getting wet. But you should avoid exposing the key to direct 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 to make sure your phone is compatible with the Digital Key feature. Then, you'll have to download the BMW Connected App and sign to your iCloud account. Then, put your iPhone into the smartphone tray and follow the steps to complete activating the BMW Digital Key.
If you want to replace the battery in your BMW key fob you can do it easily by removing your backplate and swapping out the CR2032 coin cell battery. Be careful when trying to remove the backplate as it's glued. If you're not confident doing it yourself, you can always call a professional automotive lock expert for assistance.
Proximity Keys
Proximity keys are the most recent technology in keyless entry systems. Instead of requiring physical contact, they utilize the proximity sensor to recognize the key and permit the driver to unlock the doors and start the engine. This is a convenient method however it does pose certain safety dangers.
The main issue is that, just like laptops and smartphones they are susceptible to theft. Criminals are able to steal the system and transmit the signal that identifies them to a person who is nearby, or they can simply utilize a simple signal amplifier to receive the signal. To prevent this, some drivers choose to keep their key fobs in a signal-blocking pouch or cover.
Another issue occurs when drivers fail to turn off their vehicle before leaving. Leaving the vehicle on while at the grocery store or dropping it into the cup holder could cause it to run and cause theft or carbon monoxide poisoning. It is also common for drivers to put their keys in the ignition after they have parked at home, assuming they have turned the car off. This can lead either to theft or, if you have a hybrid vehicle carbon monoxide, while your family is sleeping.
If the key fob is damaged or the battery is dead it will not start even if you possess the key to unlock the door. It is essential to have a spare smart key or spare key made to ensure that you or a trusted individual can access your vehicle in the event of an emergency.
These problems can be avoided by taking the proper precautions. By being more mindful about the location of your key fob, making sure that it's off and in a locked position before you leave from your vehicle, and by using an alarm to remind you of things you need to do to minimize the chance of proximity key-related issues.
BMW's most sophisticated fob, the Display Key with touchscreen display is the most sophisticated. This unique key is slightly more susceptible to theft than traditional BMW fobs, but it is still more secure. Keep your brand new BMW Display Key away from water and treat it the same way you would a smartphone.
Remote Start
If you own a BMW with Remote Start you can use your key fob or BMW Connected App to start your vehicle before you get 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, you can add it by buying an OEM kit at our parts center and scheduling it at your convenience.
The button at the base of many BMW key fobs allows you to create an emergency copy of your keys. This can be useful for instances when your fob becomes wet or soaked, 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 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 click here kept in water for long.
BMW key fobs hold up to three driver profiles, which means you can customize your vehicle's settings based on which keys you have with you. Unlocking the correct fob with your iDrive system will set all relevant settings, from seat position to radio presets for that profile. Then, when you want to switch drivers, 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. Take off the cover of the fob, take out the old batteries, and gently replace the new ones. You can purchase a replacement BMW battery from our parts department, or purchase one on the internet. If your key fob comes with Comfort Access, you will also have to disable the feature and program the vehicle to remove the current key profile before you pair it with a different.