The Benefits of a BMW 3 Series Key Fob
The BMW Display Key goes far beyond the ordinary key fob with an all-color touchscreen. It offers a number of useful features that can be accessible with a swipe of the finger.
The standard BMW key fobs are designed to withstand normal humidity levels. So, putting it in your wallet on a rainy afternoon is unlikely cause any damage. It is important to ensure that the battery is kept up-to-date.
Keyless Entry
A BMW key fob can do 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. It is therefore essential to keep the BMW key fob charged and paired with your car. Place it in a secure location when not in use to protect it from getting lost or stolen.
It is likely that you will have to replace the battery in your BMW key fob at some moment. The procedure is simple. First, locate the ignition switch on your BMW key fob and ensure that it is turned off. Then remove the cover on your key fob and carefully remove the previous battery. Replace the old battery with 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 on the engine). Once you've done this, the doors will be locked and unlock instantly, indicating that the BMW key fob is programmed.
Your BMW might also come with a feature called Comfort Access that lets you open and close your car using the key fob or smartphone. In order to activate this, you'll need an compatible iPhone and the Apple Wallet app. Once you've got these items then simply place your iPhone into the Smart Key Tray in your BMW and follow the instructions in the Wallet app.
The same procedure can be used to program a replacement key fob or other however you'll need to deactivate the existing ones first. Keep your BMW key fob out of water as it can damage the touchscreen. This means avoiding exposure to direct sunlight since the display can be permanently damaged from prolonged exposure to UV light. If you're concerned about the key fob of your BMW being compromised or cloned, be aware that it's designed with security in mind. A sophisticated system makes sure that your vehicle is only unlocked only when it receives an unique identification signal that continuously changes.
Smart Keys Keys
Smart Keys are key fobs that allow you to unlock and start your car without the need for an individual key or smartphone. You can use your smartphone's app to keep track of who has entered your car when.
You can download the app from your phone's app stores or sign in via the BMW Connected App. Once you've logged in, it is possible to view who has access to the area and change any restrictions.
If you have a key with Smart Keys, you can use it to open the doors of your BMW remotely and make use of Comfort Access features like automatically locking the doors as you come closer. You can also make use of the app to set your parking brake. You can also control some functions of your car using the app, for example, setting the volume of your music, or setting your climate control.
The key blade that is inside the key fob is standard key size. You can use it both to unlock doors manually and with Comfort Access. The key is water resistant which means you don't have to be concerned about it getting wet. You should not expose the key to direct sunlight or extreme heat because it could overheat.
Follow these simple steps to program your BMW keyfob so that it is compatible with the app on your read more phone. First, ensure that your smartphone 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. Follow the instructions and activate the BMW Digital Key.
If you're looking to replace the battery in your BMW key fob, you can do so easily by removing your backplate and swapping out the CR2032 coin cell battery. Be careful when removing the backplate as it's sealed by glue. You can always call a professional automotive locksmith to assist you should you feel uncomfortable doing it yourself.
Proximity Keys
Proximity keys represent the latest development in keyless entry systems. Instead of requiring a physical contact, they make use of proximity sensors to identify the key and permit the driver to open the doors and start the engine. While this technology is useful, it also poses some safety risks.
The biggest issue is that they are easily stolen as well, just like laptops and smartphones. Criminals can hack the system to send signals that identify them to an accomplice nearby, or use a simple amplifier to receive the signals. Some drivers keep their keys in a pouch that blocks signals or cover to ward off this.
Another issue is that drivers might not realize they need to shut off the vehicle before leaving it. The vehicle being left on while shopping at the store or dropping it in a cup holder can 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, assuming that the vehicle is not running. This can lead either to a theft or, if you have a hybrid vehicle carbon monoxide vapors while your family is sleeping.
Additionally, if your key fob gets lost or its battery dies unexpectedly, the car won't start even if you've got the key to open the door. It is essential to have an extra smart key or spare key so that you or a trusted person can gain access to your vehicle in an emergency.
This issue can be avoided by taking the proper steps. By being more mindful about the location of your key fob, and making sure it's off and in a locked position before you leave from the car and setting an alarm system to remind you of the things you need to do and lower the chance of having proximity key-related issues.
BMW's most sophisticated fob is the Display Key, which comes with an LCD touchscreen. The new key is somewhat more vulnerable to theft than standard BMW fobs however it is 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 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 warm up your car in the mornings when it's chilly in Decatur or cool down the cabin on Pekin commutes. If your BMW did not have Remote Start, we can add it to your car by purchasing an OEM kit in our parts center.
The button on the base of many BMW key fobs lets you to create an emergency duplicate of your keys. This is helpful if your fob gets soaked or if you are not close to an locksmith. Some people keep a spare car key on their wallets to allow other family members to access their cars without calling our dealership to request Comfort Access or keyless entry.
The standard BMW key fob is extremely resistant to moisture, so it is able to withstand an afternoon in the rain or an excursion to the washing machine. The BMW Display Key with touchscreen however, is more fragile and shouldn't be kept in water for too long.
BMW key fobs can hold up to three driver profiles, which means you can modify your vehicle's settings according to the keys you carry with you. Unlocking the correct fob with your iDrive system will set all the relevant settings, from seat position to radio presets, for that profile. If you wish to switch drivers, all you need to do is to press the lock button twice on the key fob.
If your BMW key fob isn't functioning properly, you'll need to change the battery (a size CR2032) inside. Remove the fob's cover and then remove the battery, and insert the new one gently. You can purchase a replacement BMW key battery from our parts department, or you can purchase a new one on the internet. If your key fob has a Comfort Access feature, you'll also need to deactivate it and code the car to delete the key profile you have already created before you can pair it with a different.