The Benefits of a BMW 3 Series Key Fob
The BMW Display Key goes far beyond the standard key fob with the 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 humidity levels. So, keeping it in your wallet on a rainy afternoon is unlikely cause any damage. However, it is important to keep your battery current.
Keyless Entry
A BMW key fob does so much more than just unlock your car or start it. It's also a powerful security device that can help protect both your vehicle and its contents from theft. This is why it's crucial to keep your BMW key fob fully charged and connected to your vehicle. Keep it in a safe location when not in use to protect it from getting lost or stolen.
Almost certainly, you'll need to replace the battery in your BMW key fob at some point. Luckily, the procedure for doing so is simple. First, locate the ignition switch on your BMW key fob and make sure that it is turned off. Then, remove the cover on your key fob and carefully remove the previous battery. Replace the battery that was removed with a new (size CR2032) and then replace the key fob. Press and hold the lock key until you hear a click (without turning off 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 may also have a Comfort Access feature that lets you open and close your vehicle using a 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 you can simply insert your iPhone into the Smart Key Tray of your BMW and follow the steps in the Wallet app.
The same method can be used to program a replacement or additional key fob, though you may have to disable the existing ones first. It is also essential to keep your BMW key fob clear of water since the touchscreen could be damaged by it. It is also important to avoid exposing it to direct sunlight since the display can be permanently damaged by prolonged exposure to UV light. If you're worried about your BMW key fob being stolen, or cloned be aware that the security of the device is designed into it. A sophisticated system makes sure that your vehicle unlocks only when it receives an unique identifier that is constantly changing.
Smart Keys
Smart Keys are key fobs that unlock and start your vehicle without the need of an individual key or smartphone. You can also utilize the app on your smartphone to monitor who's been in your car and when.
You can download the app from your smartphone's app stores or log in via the BMW Connected App. Once logged in you'll be able see who has access and alter any restrictions that might be in place.
If you've got Smart Keys on your key you can use them to open the doors of your BMW remotely and make use of Comfort Access features such as automatically locking the door when you approach. You can even use the app to control your parking brake. You can also control some features of your vehicle with the app, like setting the volume of your music, or setting your climate control.
The key fob's inner key blade is standard key size and you can use it to open the door manually and also use Comfort Access features. The key is water resistant and therefore you don't need to worry about it accidentally 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 connect to the app on your smartphone by following a few simple steps. First, you'll need ensure that 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 in the tray for your smartphone. Follow the steps and activate the BMW Digital Key.
If you're looking to change the battery in your BMW key fob it is possible to do this easily by removing the backplate and replacing the CR2032 coin cell battery. You'll need to be careful when trying to remove the backplate, since it is sealed with glue. If you're unsure about doing it yourself, contact a professional automotive locksmith for help.
Proximity keys
Proximity keys represent the latest advancements in keyless entry systems. Instead of requiring a physical contact, they utilize proximity sensors to identify the key and permit the driver to open the doors and start the engine. This is a convenient method however it does pose certain safety risks.
The most significant issue is that they can be stolen, just like smartphones and laptops. Criminals are able to access the system and send the signal that identifies them to an accomplice sitting nearby, or they can simply make use of a signal amplifier to receive the signal. Some drivers keep their keys in a pouch that blocks signals or cover to combat this.
Another issue is that drivers may not remember to shut off the vehicle prior to leaving it. If you leave the vehicle running in the shop or place it in a cup holder it could start to run and cause theft or carbon monoxide. It is also common for drivers to put their keys in the ignition after leaving home, thinking they've turned the car off. This could lead to theft or, if you own a hybrid car carbon monoxide vapors while your family is sleeping.
If the key fob is lost or the battery fails and the car won't start, even if you have the key that opens the door. It is important to have an extra smart key or spare key made to ensure that you or a trusted person can gain access to your vehicle in an emergency.
These problems can be avoided by taking the proper precautions. You can lessen the chance that proximity keys could cause problems by being aware of where you store your key fob and making sure it's locked and removed before you leave the car.
BMW's most advanced fob is the Display Key, which comes with an LCD touchscreen. The new key is slightly more susceptible to theft than standard BMW fobs, but it is still more secure. Keep your new BMW Display Key away from water and treat it the same way you would a smartphone.
Remote Start
If you have a BMW with Remote Start or Remote Start, you can use the BMW Connected app or your key fob to start your car before you get inside. You can heat up your car in the mornings when it's chilly in Decatur or cool down the cabin during Pekin commutes. If your BMW did get more info not come with Remote Start, we can integrate it into your vehicle by purchasing an OEM kit in our parts center.
The button on the base of most BMW key fobs lets you to make an emergency duplicate of your keys. This is helpful for occasions when your fob is wet, or when you're far from a locksmith. Some people also keep a spare key on the fob so that additional family members can access their cars without having to call our dealership for keyless entry or Comfort Access.
The standard BMW key fob can stand up to an entire day of rain or a trip through the washing machine. However the BMW Display Key with touchscreen is a bit 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 customize your vehicle's settings based on the keys you have with you. The iDrive system will unlock the appropriate fob, which will then set all relevant settings for the profile, including seat location and radio presets. If you want to change drivers, you simply need to press the lock button twice on your key fob.
If your BMW key fob isn't working properly, you'll need change the battery (a size CR2032) inside. Remove the cover of the fob, remove the old batteries, then gently replace the new batteries. You can purchase the replacement BMW battery in our parts department, or purchase one on the internet. If your key fob is equipped with Comfort Access, you will be required to disable the feature and code the vehicle to remove your current key profile prior to you pair it with another.