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Defines the BMW Key Card as a fully functioning vehicle key for opening, locking, and starting.
Explains that each Key Card is linked to a vehicle and activated by the customer via iDrive.
Details NFC technology use for unlocking, locking, and starting, covering various scenarios like valet parking.
Instructs to place the Key Card on the center console's NFC reader, noting variations in symbols.
States that a valid remote control key is needed in the vehicle for initial activation via iDrive.
Defines the BMW Key Card as a fully functioning vehicle key for opening, locking, and starting.
Explains that each Key Card is linked to a vehicle and activated by the customer via iDrive.
Details NFC technology use for unlocking, locking, and starting, covering various scenarios like valet parking.
Instructs to place the Key Card on the center console's NFC reader, noting variations in symbols.
States that a valid remote control key is needed in the vehicle for initial activation via iDrive.
The BMW Key Card is a fully functional vehicle key designed to enhance the convenience and security of BMW vehicles. It is an integral part of the BMW Digital Key system, specifically introduced for newly launched models from the G05 series and higher. This innovative card leverages Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to provide seamless access and engine start capabilities, offering an alternative to traditional remote control keys and smartphone-based digital keys.
The primary function of the BMW Key Card is to act as a vehicle key, enabling users to open, lock, and start their BMW vehicle. It is pre-assigned to a specific vehicle upon delivery, with its vehicle identification number (VIN) stored on the card itself. This ensures that each Key Card is uniquely linked to its corresponding car, preventing unauthorized use. The card utilizes NFC technology, which allows for short-range wireless communication between the card and the vehicle's NFC readers. This technology is fundamental to its operation, providing a secure and efficient method for vehicle interaction.
The Key Card is designed to cover various use cases where a customer might prefer not to use their smartphone, such as during a breakdown, workshop processes, or valet parking. Its robust design ensures reliability and ease of use in diverse situations.
For initial activation, the Key Card must be placed on the NFC reader pad located on the center console of the vehicle. The NFC reader's symbol may vary depending on the vehicle's options, and it can be integrated with or without a wireless charger. Crucially, a valid remote control key must be present in the vehicle during this activation process. The customer then navigates through the iDrive system, accessing "Settings," then "Door Access," "BMW Digital Key," "Key Card," and finally selecting "Activate Digital Key" to complete the activation. This process ensures that the card is securely linked and ready for use.
To open or lock the vehicle, the activated Key Card is held in close proximity to the NFC reader located in the door handle on the driver's side. It is important to note that only the driver's door handle is equipped with an NFC reader. The card should be positioned correctly, either fully resting on top of the handle at handle level or slightly above, or approximately half an inch away from the emergency access cover, in front of the CA ridges. Each time the Key Card is placed on the door handle, it toggles the lock status, switching between locked and unlocked.
Once the vehicle is unlocked, the engine can be started by placing the activated Key Card on the NFC tray, typically located in the smartphone tray within the vehicle. After the card is correctly positioned, the user can press the "Start/Stop" button to ignite the engine. This streamlined process eliminates the need for a physical key insertion, offering a modern and convenient starting method.
The status of the Key Card (activated or deactivated) can be verified through the iDrive system. In the "BMW Digital Key" menu, an "Activated Key Card" will display "Digital Key active" with a validity period, typically extending far into the future (e.g., "Expires: 01/04/2100, 12:00 am"). A "Deactivated Key Card" will show the Key Card symbol as grayed out, indicating it is not currently active.
Only one Key Card can be active on the vehicle at any given time. If a Key Card is lost or stolen, the customer can delete all digital keys or use the reset function via iDrive, which will disable any active Key Card. If the function is reset, there is no need to order a new Key Card; the existing card can be re-activated by following the initial activation instructions.
For retailers, an additional function allows for reading the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) directly from the Key Card using the KeyReader Plus Mobil device. This function is available with SW version v.31 of the KeyReader Plus. To use this feature, the KeyReader Plus must be connected to a Windows computer via USB, and its USB driver must be installed. Retailers can then access a specific IP address (http://192.168.17.17) in an Internet browser (for ISPI Next) to reach the configuration interface. A new button, "NFC KeyCard Reading Mode," will be available at the bottom of the page. When a Key Card is placed on the KeyReader Plus in this mode, and the "read VIN" button is activated, the VIN will be displayed on the Windows computer. This VIN is only displayed on the new mask and is not transferred to any server or PC, ensuring data privacy. In this operating mode, normal key reading and key data transmission are turned off. The KeyReader Plus indicates this mode by a flashing white middle LED. The device can be returned to normal operating mode by using the "EXIT" button or by any kind of device reset.
The BMW Key Card is designed for durability and minimal maintenance. However, certain considerations are important for its longevity and proper functioning:
While robust, the Key Card should be handled with care to prevent physical damage. Avoid bending, excessive force, or exposure to extreme temperatures or harsh chemicals, as these can impair its internal NFC components. Safe storage, away from potential damage, is recommended.
Retailers and customers may encounter issues such as the Key Card not activating or being blocked, incorrect Key Card usage (e.g., swapped from another vehicle), quick taps on the door handle, or incorrect positioning of the card. Remote control recognition issues during activation can also occur. In cases of a damaged Key Card, replacement may be necessary.
If the Key Card fails to operate correctly, the issue might lie with the vehicle's NFC reader. A faulty or damaged wiring in the door handle NFC reader can cause problems. Diagnostic fault codes, such as D90D52 ("NFC-Reader exterior TAGE DRD: Missing LIN-Slave"), can indicate issues with the NFC reader.
For diagnostic purposes, the communication signal of the NFC reader can be observed using a universal scope. In a rest state or two minutes after locking the vehicle, a constant 12V signal should be observed from the driver's door handle LIN bus to the BDC. When a Key Card is placed in front of the reader, a square wave signal pattern should be visible, indicating proper NFC reader communication. This visual verification helps in identifying whether the NFC reader is functioning as expected.
The BMW Key Card offers a sophisticated and convenient method for vehicle access and operation, integrating seamlessly with the BMW Digital Key ecosystem. Its design emphasizes user-friendliness, security, and reliability, making it a valuable addition to the modern BMW ownership experience.
General| Category | Car Alarm |
|---|---|
| Type | Key Card |
| Material | Plastic |
| Functionality | Vehicle access, engine start |
| Security | Encrypted communication |
| Power Source | Passive (no battery required) |
| Battery | None (passive device) |
| Dimensions | 86 x 54 x 0.76 mm (ISO standard ID-1) |
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