Understanding BMW Digital Key
What is BMW Digital Key?
BMW Digital Key is a modern technology solution that allows BMW owners to lock, unlock, and start their vehicles using their compatible smartphone or key card. This innovative feature eliminates the need for a traditional key fob, providing convenience and enhanced security for BMW drivers.
Function and Features of BMW Digital Key
The BMW Digital Key utilizes Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to communicate with the car. Users can simply hold their compatible smartphone or key card near the vehicle’s driver’s side door handle to lock or unlock the car. To start the engine, the device needs to be placed in the wireless charging tray inside the vehicle. The Digital Key can be shared with up to five other users, allowing family members or friends to access the car without needing a physical key.
Some of the main features of BMW Digital Key include:
- Keyless entry and engine start
- Secure access via smartphone or key card
- Ability to share access with multiple users
- Compatibility with select BMW models and smartphones
Compatibility of BMW Digital Key
The BMW Digital Key is compatible with certain BMW models and smartphone devices. For iPhones, it requires iOS 13.6 or later and is compatible with iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, or newer models. For Google Pixel devices, the Digital Key is supported on Pixel 3, Pixel 3 XL, Pixel 4, and Pixel 4 XL models. Samsung Galaxy smartphones running Android 9.0 or newer, with NFC and a secure element, are also compatible with the feature.
It is crucial to ensure your vehicle and device are compatible before attempting to set up the BMW Digital Key. Additionally, users may need to visit a BMW dealer for initial registration and pairing of their smartphone with the vehicle.
Troubleshooting BMW Digital Key Issues
Common Issues and Solutions
Several issues can arise when using the BMW Digital Key. If you have trouble unlocking your BMW M340i, make sure your smartphone is within range of the NFC sensor in your car’s door handle. Here are potential issues and their solutions:
- Smartphone compatibility: Ensure that your device is compatible with the BMW Digital Key feature. It works with specific iPhone, Google Pixel, and Samsung Galaxy smartphones. Check BMW’s device compatibility list for details.
- Software or app updates: Keep your smartphone’s operating system and the MyBMW app up to date to prevent potential glitches or incompatibility issues.
- Digital Key Card damage: A damaged BMW Digital Key card can cause detection problems. This can happen if you charge your smartphone in the wireless charging tray and place it on top of the Digital Key card. In such cases, replacing the Digital Key card may be necessary.
What to do if BMW Digital Key isn’t Showing in MyBMW App
If the Digital Key option is not showing in your MyBMW app, try the following steps:
- Log out of the MyBMW app, then log back in.
- Check for any updates to the MyBMW app and install them if available.
- Restart your smartphone.
If the problem persists, you may need to contact BMW’s customer support for further assistance.
Error Messages and Their Meanings
When using BMW Digital Key, you may encounter specific error messages. Understanding their meanings can help you diagnose and resolve the issues. Some examples include:
- “Unable to connect to Digital Key”: This message indicates that your smartphone cannot establish a connection with the BMW Digital Key. Make sure your smartphone’s NFC feature is enabled, and try restarting the phone and the MyBMW app.
- “Digital Key not detected”: If your vehicle does not detect the BMW Digital Key, make sure the Digital Key card isn’t damaged and that your phone’s NFC is enabled. If the card is damaged, replace it.
Remember always to consult your vehicle’s manual or contact BMW support if you continue to face issues with the Digital Key function.
Using BMW Digital Key with Phone
Linking BMW Digital Key with iPhone
To link the BMW Digital Key with your iPhone, first, ensure that your device is compatible with BMW’s Operating System 7 or higher and BMW Connected Music. To log in to the BMW system, select “Media” > “Spotify” and follow the instructions provided. Once your iPhone is connected, you can use it as a digital key for your BMW vehicle by holding it near the door handle on the driver’s side to lock and unlock the car.
If you are switching to a new iPhone, remember to transfer the BMW Digital Key from your old device to the new one. To do this, you’ll need both iPhones and follow the steps provided by BMW’s official guide.
Linking BMW Digital Key with Android
For Android users, the process of linking the BMW Digital Key is slightly different. First, ensure your Android device, such as a Google Pixel or Samsung Galaxy smartphone, is compatible with the BMW Digital Key. Then, download and install the BMW Connected App from the Google Play Store.
To use the digital key, hold the top of your phone near the door handle on the driver’s side until a check mark appears on your display and a “Done” notification pops up. It will unlock the driver’s side door as described by BimmerTech.
When switching to a new Android phone, follow the transfer procedure detailed by the BMW Connected App to move the BMW Digital Key from your old device to the new one.
Overall, linking the BMW Digital Key to your iPhone or Android device provides a convenient way to unlock, lock, and start your BMW vehicle without the need for a traditional key fob.
Transitioning to a New Phone
Transferring BMW Digital Key to a New Phone
If you have recently upgraded to a new phone, transferring your BMW Digital Key is a straightforward process. First, ensure that you are logged into your BMW ConnectedDrive account on both your old and new devices. This will help to sync your BMW Digital Key with your new phone. Then, follow the instructions on the MyBMW App1 to complete the digital key transfer. Keep in mind that the transition might require you to have specific iPhone models or particular Android versions.
Pairing New Phone with Comfort Access
To pair your new phone with your BMW’s Comfort Access feature, start by making sure that both Bluetooth and NFC are enabled on your device. Then, place your new phone in the smartphone tray of your vehicle, and follow the on-screen instructions provided by your BMW’s control display2. During this process, you might need your physical vehicle key for activation.
What to do with Old Device
Once the BMW Digital Key has been transferred to your new phone, it’s essential to remove the digital key from the old device. To do this, simply log out of the MyBMW App on the old phone. Additionally, it’s a good idea to disable the old phone’s Bluetooth and NFC capabilities, ensuring that it can no longer interact with your car’s systems.
By following these steps, you can successfully transition your BMW Digital Key to your new phone while maintaining the convenience and security provided by Comfort Access.
Role of BMW App
The BMW App plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall experience of owning a BMW vehicle. Apart from providing various convenience features, the app also facilitates the use of BMW Digital Key, enabling drivers to have a seamless and keyless entry experience. In this section, we will discuss the importance of the app and how it can be updated to resolve any specific issues related to the Digital Key.
Setting up BMW Digital Key Using App
Setting up the BMW Digital Key using the MyBMW App is a straightforward process. First, ensure that your smartphone is compatible with the app and the Digital Key function. Next, follow the app’s instructions to add your BMW vehicle. Once the vehicle is added, the app should display the option to activate the Digital Key. If the Digital Key option is not showing up, it might be due to an outdated app version or the vehicle not being compatible with the feature. In such cases, updating the app or contacting BMW support could help resolve the issue.
Updating the App to Solve Issues
Sometimes, the issues related to the BMW Digital Key can be solved by updating the MyBMW App. To do this, visit your smartphone’s app store and check if any updates are available for the app. If there is an update, install it and check if the Digital Key option is now available in the app. If the issue persists, it is advisable to consult BMW support to identify and fix the issue. Remember to always keep the app up-to-date to have access to the latest features and ensure smooth functioning of the BMW Digital Key.
Interaction with Dealers and Services
Contacting Dealers for Assistance
When facing issues with the BMW Digital Key not showing in the app, it is essential to contact your dealer for assistance. The dealer can check your vehicle’s compatibility with the digital key, ensuring that it has the required Comfort Access feature. They can also verify if the VIN is correctly registered in the system to match your BMW account.
In some cases, dealers might need to update or troubleshoot your vehicle’s software to resolve any discrepancies or compatibility issues affecting the digital key. Reaching out to your dealer will enable you to receive personalized guidance and solutions tailored to your specific situation.
How Services Can Help Solve Issues
In addition to working with dealers, you can also seek help from BMW Services. They have a wealth of knowledge on the Digital Key, the MyBMW app, and other related systems. BMW Services can perform remote diagnostics on your vehicle, helping identify and fix any issues that might be preventing the Digital Key from appearing in your app.
Furthermore, BMW Services can assist in the removal and re-adding of your car within the app, ensuring the correct data is synced between your vehicle and account. They can also guide you through the process of activating and using the Digital Key in your BMW, making sure you have the necessary steps to access and enjoy this convenient feature of your vehicle.
In conclusion, reaching out to your BMW dealer and engaging with BMW Services can result in quick and effective solutions for issues related to the Digital Key not showing in the app. By utilizing their expertise and available resources, you can easily resolve any problems and maximize the utilization of the Digital Key in your BMW vehicle.
