The Benefits of a BMW 3 Series Key Fob
The BMW Display Key goes far beyond the ordinary key fob by incorporating the full-color touchscreen. It offers a number of helpful features that are accessible by a swipe of the finger.
The standard BMW key fobs are designed to withstand normal levels of moisture. So, putting it in your wallet during a rainy afternoon is unlikely cause any damage. However, it's important to keep your battery up-to-date.
Keyless Entry
A BMW key fob does so more than just a means to unlock your car or turn it on. It's also an effective security device that protects both your vehicle and its contents against theft. It's therefore important to keep the BMW key fob charged and connected to your vehicle. Keep it in a safe place when it's not in use to avoid it from getting lost or stolen.
It is likely that you will need to replace the battery on your BMW key fob at some time. Luckily, the process to do this is easy. First find your BMW key fob's ignition button and make sure it's off. Take the key fob off and remove it carefully from the battery. Replace it with a new one (size CR2032) and then reinsert the key fob cover. Press and hold the lock key until you hear the click (without turning the engine on). After you've done this, the doors will lock and unlock instantly, indicating that the BMW key fob is programmed.
You may also be able to utilize the Comfort Access feature on your BMW that lets you to open and shut it with a keyfob or smartphone. To enable this option, you'll need an compatible iPhone and the Apple Wallet app. Once you have those things, simply put your iPhone in the Smart Key Tray inside your BMW and then follow the directions on the Wallet app to pair it with the key fob in your car.
You can follow the same method to program additional key fobs, or an alternative, however you may need to disable the existing ones first. Keep your BMW keyfob away from water because it could damage the touchscreen. This includes avoiding exposure to direct sunlight as the display could be permanently damaged by prolonged exposure to UV light. If you're worried about your BMW key fob being stolen or copied, know that the security of this device has been constructed to be built into it. A sophisticated system makes sure that your vehicle will only unlock when it receives an unique identifier that is constantly changing.
Smart Keys
A key fob that has Smart Keys functionality is able to unlock your vehicle and then start it up without the need for an additional key or smartphone. You can use the app on your smartphone to keep track of who has was in your car at the time of.
The app is available on the app store for your smartphone or by using the BMW Connected App to log into the Digital Key area. Once you log in, it will be possible to see who has access and alter any restrictions.
If you own a key with Smart Keys, you can make use of it to open the doors of your BMW remotely and make use of Comfort Access features like automatically locking the doors as you approach. The app can be used to set the parking brake. You can also control a number of functions of your car using the app, such as adjusting your music volume or setting your climate control.
The key fob's inner key blade is a standard size key that you can use it to unlock the door manually as well as utilize Comfort Access features. The key is indestructible to water so there's no reason to fret about it getting wet. You should not expose the key to direct sun or extreme heat since it may overheat.
You can program your BMW key fob to connect to the app on your smartphone by following a few simple steps. First, 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, place your iPhone in the tray for your smartphone. Follow the instructions and activate the BMW Digital Key.
You can easily replace the CR2032 battery in your BMW keyfob by taking off the backplate. Be careful when prying off the backplate as it's sealed by glue. You can always contact a professional automotive locksmith for help in case you aren't comfortable doing it yourself.
Proximity Keys
Proximity keys are the newest development in keyless entry systems. They don't require physical contact but instead rely on a proximity sensor to identify the key. This enables the driver to open doors and even start the car. While this technology can be useful, it also poses some safety dangers.
A major issue is that, just like smartphones and laptops they are susceptible to theft. Criminals can hack the system to send identifying signals to a nearby accomplice or use a basic amplifier to receive the signals. Some drivers keep their keys in a pouch that blocks signals or cover to ward off this.
Another problem is that drivers may not remember to shut off the vehicle before leaving it. If you leave the car running in the store or drop it in a cup holder, it could start to run and lead to carbon monoxide or theft. It is also a common practice for drivers to leave their keys in the ignition after they have parked at home, assuming they've turned the car off. This could lead to a theft or, if you have a hybrid vehicle carbon monoxide, when your family is asleep.
If the key fob is damaged or the battery is dead it will not start, even if you own the key that opens the door. It is essential to have a spare smart key or spare key made to ensure that you or a trusted individual can gain access to your vehicle in case of emergency.
These issues can be prevented by taking the proper steps. You can lessen the chance that proximity keys can cause problems by being aware of where you store your key fob, and making sure it's off and locked before you leave the car.
BMW's most sophisticated fob, the Display Key with touchscreen display is the most advanced. This unique key is slightly more susceptible to theft, but it's more secure than conventional BMW fobs. Keep your new BMW Display Key away from water and treat it like you would treat a smartphone.
Remote Start
If you have a BMW with Remote Start you can use your key fob or the BMW Connected App to start your car before you go in. You can warm your car up in the mornings when it's cold in Decatur or cool down the cabin on Pekin commutes. If your BMW didn't have Remote Start, you can add it by purchasing an OEM kit 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 make an emergency copy of your keys. This is helpful for occasions when your fob is wet, or you're far from an locksmith. Some people also keep a spare key on the fob so that additional family members can get into their cars without calling our dealership for keyless entry or Comfort Access.
The standard BMW key fob is highly resistant to moisture, so it is able to withstand an afternoon in the rain or an excursion to the wash machine. However the BMW Display Key with touchscreen is a little more delicate and should not be submerged in water too long.
BMW key fobs can store up to three profiles. This allows you to modify your vehicle settings based on the keys you've got. Unlocking the correct fob with your iDrive system will set all relevant settings, from the seat location to radio presets for that profile. If you want to change drivers, you just need to press the lock button twice on your key fob.
If your BMW key fob doesn't work properly, you will need to replace the battery (size CR2032) within. Take off the cover of the fob, check here then remove the old batteries, then gently insert the new batteries. You can purchase a new BMW key battery in our parts department, or purchase a new one on the internet. If your key fob is equipped with a Comfort Access feature, you'll also have to disable it and also code the car to erase your current key profile before you can pair it with another.