Then You've Found Your BMW 3 Series Key Fob ... Now What?
The Benefits of a BMW 3 Series Key Fob
The BMW Display Key goes far beyond the ordinary key fob by including a full-color touchscreen. It has a variety of useful features that are accessible by simply swiping your finger.
The standard BMW key fobs are built to withstand normal levels of moisture. So, keeping it in your wallet during rainy days is unlikely to cause any damage. However, it's important to keep your battery up-to-date.
Keyless Entry
A BMW key fob is so more than just a means to unlock your vehicle or start it. It's also a powerful security device that helps protect both your vehicle and its contents from theft. It is therefore essential to keep the BMW key fob charged and connected to your vehicle. It's also crucial to keep it in a secure place when not in use so that it doesn't get lost or stolen.
It is likely that you will need to replace your BMW key fob battery at some point during its lifespan. Fortunately, the procedure for doing so is simple. First, locate the ignition switch on your BMW key fob and make sure it's off. Remove the key fob and remove it carefully from the battery. Replace it with a fresh one (size CR2032), and then carefully reinsert the key fob cover. Press and hold the lock key until you hear a click (without turning the engine on). Once bmw replacement keys 've done this, the doors will unlock and lock automatically, signalling that the BMW key fob has been programmed.
Your BMW might also come with a Comfort Access feature that lets you open and close your car using the key fob or smartphone. In order to activate this you'll require a compatible iPhone and the Apple Wallet app. Once you've got these items, just put your iPhone into the Smart Key Tray of your BMW and follow the steps in the Wallet app.
You can use the same procedure to program additional key fobs, or a replacement, but you may need to deactivate existing ones first. Keep your BMW keyfob from getting wet since it can cause damage to the touchscreen. Be sure to not expose the key fob to direct sunlight, as it could permanently cause damage to the display. If you're worried about your BMW key fob getting hacked or cloned, you should know that the security of the device is constructed into it. A sophisticated system will ensure that your vehicle only unlocks when it receives a unique identification signal that constantly changes.
Smart Keys
Smart Keys are key fobs that let you unlock and start your vehicle without the requirement of a smartphone or separate key. You can use your smartphone's app to track who is in your car when.
You can find the app in the app store of your smartphone or use the BMW Connected App to log in to the Digital Key area. Once you've logged in, you'll be able to view who has access and change any restrictions that may apply.
If you have Smart Keys on your key, you can use them to unlock the doors of your BMW remotely and take advantage of Comfort Access features such as automatically locking the door as you approach. The app can be used to set the parking brake. You can also control some functions of your car using the app, for example, adjusting your music volume or setting your climate controls.
The key blade that is inside the key fob is standard key size. You can use it to unlock doors manually as well as with Comfort Access. The key is water-resistant, so you don't have to be concerned about it getting wet. But you should avoid exposing the key to intense sunlight or extreme heat as the key could overheat and cause permanent damage.
Follow these easy steps to program your BMW keyfob to ensure it is compatible with the application on your phone. First, make sure your phone 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.
You can easily replace the CR2032 battery in your BMW keyfob by removing the backplate. Be careful when trying to remove the backplate, as it's glued. If you're not sure about doing it yourself, you can always contact a professional auto locksmith for help.
Proximity Keys
Proximity keys represent the latest technology in keyless entry systems. They do not 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. This is a convenient method however, it also poses certain safety risks.
The main issue is that, like laptops and smartphones they are also susceptible to being stolen. Criminals could hack into the system to send the signals for identification to an accomplice nearby, or use a simple amplifier to take in the signals. Some drivers keep their keys in a pouch that blocks signals or cover to prevent this.
Another problem is that drivers may not remember to shut off the vehicle before leaving it. If you leave the vehicle running at the shop or place it in a cup holder it may begin to run and cause carbon monoxide or theft. It is also common for drivers to put their keys in the ignition after parking at home, thinking they've turned the car off. This can lead to theft, or in the case of a hybrid car carbon monoxide poisoning as the family is asleep.
Additionally, if your key fob gets lost or the battery fails suddenly, the car will not start even if you have the key to open the door. It is important to have a spare smart key or spare key made to ensure that you or a trusted person can gain access to your vehicle in case of emergency.
These issues can be prevented by taking the proper precautions. By being more aware of where you keep your key fob, making sure it is secured and off position before you walk away from your vehicle, and by using an alarm system to remind you of what you must do and reduce the risk of proximity key-related problems.
BMW's most advanced fob is the Display Key, which comes with an LCD touchscreen. This innovative key is also slightly more susceptible to theft, but it's still more secure than traditional BMW fobs. Keep your brand new BMW Display Key away from water and treat it as you would a smartphone.
Remote Start
If you own a BMW with Remote Start you can use your key fob, or the BMW Connected App to start your vehicle before you get into. 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 did not have Remote Start, we can integrate it into your vehicle by purchasing an OEM kit at our parts center.
The majority of BMW key fobs feature a removable key blade along with the electronic control modules. This means that you can make an emergency copy of your key using the button on the bottom of the fob. This is useful in the event that your fob gets wet or if you're not in the vicinity of an locksmith. Some people keep a spare car key in their fobs to allow family members to gain access to their vehicles without having to call our dealership for Comfort Access or keyless entry.
The standard BMW key fob can stand up to a day of rain or a trip in the washing machine. However the BMW Display Key with touchscreen is a little more delicate and should not be left in the water long enough.
BMW key fobs hold up to three driver profiles, so you can alter your vehicle's settings based on the keys you carry with you. Unlocking the correct fob with your iDrive system will set all the relevant settings, from the seat location to radio presets for that profile. Then, when you want to switch drivers, you can simply press the lock button on the fob's key twice in a row.
If your BMW key fob isn't working properly, you'll need replace the battery (a size CR2032) inside. Remove the cover from the fob, then remove the batteries that were in use, and gently insert the new batteries. You can purchase a replacement BMW battery in our parts department or purchase one online. If your key fob comes with an Comfort Access feature, you'll also have to disable it and then code the car to remove your current key profile before you can pair it with a different.