Apple Car Key Compatible Cars [2024 Updated List]

Apple Car Key Compatible Cars [2024 Updated List]

If you want to unlock and start your car using your iPhone and Apple Watch, or if you don't like keeping things in your pocket, Apple Car Key is an exciting and must have feature for your vehicle. Yeah!, this is right for you. What cars are compatible with this innovative technology? Surprise? Let’s dive more into Apple CarKey compatible cars.

Apple Car Key

Apple Car Key is a digital version of your car key that is stored in the Wallet App. It allows you to use personal devices as storage of virtual keys in digital wallets.

And yeah! From now, you can lock, unlock, and start your car with iPhone and Apple Watch. But, Apple Car Key isn’t supported for every iPhone/ Apple Watch device and every car.

Apple Car Key compatible car manufacturers - BYD, BMW, Hyundai, Kia, Genesis

This digital car key feature is available not only for BMW cars but also for BYD, Hyundai Genesis and Kia vehicles. Do you want to know the Apple wallet car key supported vehicles? The sound is good. Keep reading!

Also, proximity key fobs allow users to lock, unlock and start their car without a physical key. And, it will transform your car into a Smart car in a surprising way.

Express mode

  • Lock, unlock and start your car without requiring you to enter a passcode.
  • You have the option to disable this Express mode to make it.
  • You can only unlock the door of the car with a Touch ID, Face ID, or a secure passcode. It would make Apple CarKey iPhone more secure.

Away from traditional keys

  • Enables the user to press the button on their key fobs to access their vehicle functionality.
  • Another widely used passive entry system allows users with key fobs to access vehicle functionality without pressing any buttons.

Features

  • Sharing CarKeys with friends through iMessage.
  • Get into your car with your dead phone up to five hours after a low battery shut-off.
  • In case you lose your Apple device, the Apple Car Key feature can be disabled via iCloud.
  • Built into iOS and watchOS
  • Uses BLE, NFC, and UWB
  • Replace the need for a key fob
  • Control your car remotely

You can share your Apple car key in Apple wallet with an Android user using apps like Messages, Mail, and WhatsApp. Yeah! You can experience the Apple Wallet Car Key compatibility now.

For interesting folks on Tesla cars, check out our Tesla CarPlay article to enhance your Tesla experience with the Apple CarPlay feature.

Let's see what're the list of iPhone Car Key supported cars.

Which Cars Are Compatible With Apple Car Key 2024?

What're the Car Key - Apple compatible cars? BMW was Apple's first partner for the Apple Car Key feature. Now, most new BMW cars are compatible with Apple CarKey features. And, now supports select BYD, Hyundai Genesis and Kia vehicles too. So, you can use your iPhone and Apple Watch as a car key. How so? BMW’s latest model demonstrated the Car Key feature at Apple’s event.

Apple Car Key supported cars

Now, it is time to keep our fingers crossed for some good news. Here is the Apple Car Keys compatible BMW car list 2023.

  • BMW 1 Series
  • BMW 2 Series
  • BMW 3 Series
  • BMW 4 Series
  • BMW 5 Series
  • BMW 6 Series
  • BMW 8 Series
  • BMW M8
  • BMW X5
  • BMW X5 M
  • BMW X6
  • BMW X6 M
  • BMW X7
  • BMW Z4
  • BMW i4
  • BMW iX
  • BMW iX1
  • BMW iX3
  • BMW i3
  • BMW i7

Here is the Apple Car Keys compatible Hyundai car list (Genesis and Kia).

  • 2022 Genesis GV60
  • 2022 Genesis G90
  • 2022 Kia Niro
  • 2023 Kia Telluride
  • 2024 Seltos

Hyundai

  • 2023 Palisade
  • 2023 IONIQ 6

Here is the Apple Car Keys compatible BYD car list

  • 2022 - 2023 HAN
Apple CarKey Compatible BMW
Apple CarKey Compatible BMW

Even if your Apple device (iPhone, Apple Watch) is compatible with the Apple CarKey feature, Your car might not be compatible with this. If you don’t know the BMW model of your car, you can find it using the BMW-connected app.

BMW is not only the first car to support the Apple Car Key feature, but also the first car manufacturer to adopt wireless CarPlay and iPod compatibility.

Apple adds NFC Car Key support for Hyundai Genesis, Kia and BYD vehicles

Now, Genesis and Kia cars will be able to lock and unlock your car's door using your iPhone or Apple Watch. And, both cars come with the NFC iPhone's car key feature. But, there're doubts about whether these Genesis and Kia models with NFC features are still widely available or still in the process.

Since Car Key is based on Near Field Communication (NFC) tech, all cars should be compatible with CarKey with a fully implemented system for the same. Also, the cars should have an app from the manufacturer for your iPhone.

It also wants to support the Car Key feature. Further, this feature is most popular as Apple Carkey compatible cars in India, Australia, and the UK. Let's look at cars with car key support.

Don't have an Apple Car Key supported car? Don't worry! You can be smart with these smart solutions. Let's check the Best Car Key accessories for your smart car.

The feature of Apple CarKey is promising, and Apple might bring more innovative features inbuilt into iOS with other car manufacturers to support. Note that most of the car manufacturers have their apps supporting Apple Car Key such as BMW, and Toyota.

However, Hyundai cars have digital keys that work through NFC currently. Apple is working to add support for BYD and Hyundai. So, we can expect the Apple Car Key feature from Hyundai in the near future. So that, you will be able to see Apple CarKey compatible Hyundai cars and Apple Car Key compatible Toyota cars soon. And, you can experience the Toyota Apple CarKey.

Let’s find out more about iOS Digital Car Key Apple compatible cars.

Here're the list of vehicles that support the Apple Car Key feature

Apple's new car key Tests app

This Car Keys Test App was added under the Apple's developer account. You can download car key app via the direct link only. This app help for car manufacturers to test integration with Apple’s Car Key feature (Test and validate connection, performance, and other key requirements for the certification process)

Don’t you have Apple car key? - Smart Solutions

There is nothing to worry about whether you already have an Apple car key compatible car or not. We all know that in order to enjoy the Apple Car Key feature, you need to fulfil several criteria such as Apple Car Key compatible iPhone, and Apple Car Key Compatible car.

Is your car compatible with Apple Digital car key? If you don’t have them, you can use these smart gadgets instead of the Apple car key now.

Apple Car Key allows their users to use personal devices as storage of virtual keys in digital wallets
Apple Car Key

You can definitely enjoy this smart feature in the near future. So, you may use these now. Following are the few smart gadgets for your smart car such as Key finder, Keyholders, Dongles, and more. Let's look at the Apple Car Key Aftermarket solutions.

VODESON Wireless Key Tracker

VODESON Wireless Key finder is one of the best key finders with a portable transmitter design. It comes in handy when you are running out of time. Also, it is a brilliant option for those with hectic schedules.  It is very convenient easy to use and no need to install any app on your phone.

Are you a busy man who despises wasting time looking for your keys, wallets, bag, purse, TV remote controls, air conditioner remote controls, U disk, glasses box, and other items? Don't be worried! That’s why the key finder comes for.

You may get the VODESON Wireless Key Tracker from Amazon for $15.99 via the link below.

Apple AirTag

Apple AirTag is another the best Apple Car Key Aftermarket solution. You'll never lose anything else on the couch. In the Find My app, you can keep track of and find your belongings as well as friends and devices. You simply want to connect it to your iPhone or iPad with a simple one-tap setup. And, you can play a sound on the built-in speaker or simply ask Siri for assistance. This's one of the best Apple Car Key Aftermarket solution.

Apple's AirTag takes advantage of tight iOS integration and the world's vast network of iOS devices to create Bluetooth trackers that are remarkably simple to set up, and operate. Also, the AirTag is a sleek and lovely solution to trace your lost iPhone or iPad if you have one.

Eusty Air Tag Keychain for Apple Airtags Holder

Are you looking for the best tag keychain or holder? There are plenty of options for Apple Airtags holders. Eusty Air Tag Keychain comes with protective leather Airtags Case Tracker cover with an AirTag holder. This Air Tag Holder is compatible with Apple New AirTag Dog Collar. And, this AirTag protection case includes a keychain that you may use to attach to your car key, bag, child's schoolbag, dog leash, valuables, and more. Change the location of your AirTag on the items you wish to keep track of with ease.

Check out this Best Apple AirTag accessories for your new Apple AirTag.

You may get the Eusty Air Tag Keychain for Apple AirTags Holder from Amazon for $12.99 via the link below.

Tile Pro Powerful Bluetooth Tracker

This latest edition of the Tile Pro is one of the key finders with the widest range and the loudest alarm. Tile 2022 brings back all the features from previous models and you can track your phone using the key finder on the device. Also, the free Tile app works on both iOS and Android devices.

In addition to Alexa, Google Assistant, and Xfinity, Tile also works with Siri. You can use the Tile app to ring your Tile when it's within Bluetooth range, or you can ask your Smart Home device to find it. With the Tile app, you can view your Tile's location on a map when it is out of Bluetooth range.

You may get the Tile Pro Powerful Bluetooth Tracker from Amazon for $34.99 via the link below.

Metal Digital Key Card Holder

Metal Digital Key Card Holder comes with a key ring, a leather lanyard, and 2 high-quality TPE protective covers for each side of your card. It has a multi-scenario Application so, it can utilize any badge, access card, key fob, or another key card with a compatible size. It will stand out among silicone, plastic, and leather products. Also, it comes in 3 colors. So, all of the colors fit well with Tesla's Car Key. And yeah! It's also ideal as a special gift.

Mstick MG-S01 In-Vehicle Infotainment Android Car Dongle

Do you want to turn your car display into an Android PC? Then, this is a perfect gadget for you. This dongle is compatible with Android Auto. And you just want to plug in and get preferable directions, enjoy your favourite music, receive calls, set up your calendar with voice control, and enjoy an HD capacitive screen.

Also, it has fantastic features such as real-time navigation with GPS Navigation, Netflix, YouTube, Games, sports, and many more. Further, it supports speech recognition services like Google assistant using the in-vehicle microphone, touch control, and Bluetooth.

You may get the Mstick MG-S01 In-Vehicle Infotainment Android Car Dongle from Amazon for $135.99 via the link below.

Can I use Apple CarKey with older cars?

Apple CarKey is available on selected BMW cars, Hyundai Genesis and Kia cars only. But several older cars use the technology of digital car keys. They may be able to use Apple CarKey with future updates. But, Apple hasn’t announced yet about compatible older cars.

How does the Digital key work?

Apple CarKey to replace your physical car keys
Apple CarKey to replace your physical car keys 

If you have a BMW Digital Key or a Hyundai Genesis and Kia Digital Key, it is easy to use for the first time. You just want to place your iPhone in the smartphone tray of your car and then press the start button.

Your iPhone doesn’t need to be unlocked before opening your car door or starting the car because of the pre-set Express Mode. If you want to disable this, you can disable this function manually. After disabling this function, you have to verify your identity through TouchID, FaceID, or passcode.

If you want to share your BMW digital car keys or Hyundai Digital car keys with others, first you can choose the type of access you grant to others. When you share your BMW CarKey with others, you can modify the access you grant with them such as you can grant full access or you can limit their access. But the restrictions available depend on the car you have.

Land Rover Activity Key

The Land Rover Activity Key is a fully waterproof wristband. Also, it's lightweight and shockproof. You can lock and unlock your vehicle using this. It's available for all new Land Rover and Range Rover models. You don't need to worry about losing your primary key fob now.

MY BMW app, Hyindai Digital Key app, and Genesis Digital Key app

You can use the MY BMW App to see whether your vehicle is compatible with your Apple devices. You can use a Compatible iPhone to log into the app and it is necessary to have your BMW ID, and then you can add your vehicle to your account. On the vehicle tab if you see a section marked “Digital Key”, then your car is compatible. Once you set up your CarKey, you can use it even if you uninstall the MY BMW app.

You can also access and control your vehicle with Hyundai Digital Key app and Genesis Digital Key app, and Kia connect app. So, you can use Hyundai Digital Key app and Kia connect app to unlock your Genesis car. Also, Kia Connect app to unlock you Kia vehicle.

How do I set up the BMW digital key?

Set Car Key Access type
Set CarKey Access type

All you need to want is an CarKey Apple compatible BMW car and a compatible iOS device to set up a digital key. First, you want to link your BMW car to a BMW ID. You can use the My BMW App to add the key to your BMW ID. Otherwise, you can create a new BMW ID instead of an existing ID.

  • Create a BMW ID
  • Use the My BMW App to add your BMW car
  • Access the Digital Key menu in the app
  • You must be sitting in your car and have both regular car keys with you for security reasons
  • Press the Start Pairing button
  • Follow the instruction in the My BMW app menu
  • Place your iPhone in the smartphone tray with the NFC sensor
  • Then, your Car Key will be stored in the Apple Wallet app

Instead, check out the install CarBridge in iOS 16

How To Add Car Key To Apple Wallet

  1. Check whether you have a compatible car from the list above.
  2. Then, you'll need to clarify that your car is associated with the account provided by the manufacturer.
  3. Open the App (App, Email, or text message that sent by the manufacturer). You can also use your car's display to follow onscreen instructions.
  4. Open the Wallet App on your iPhone.
  5. Tap continue and place the iPhone on the car's key reader.
  6. Once done the pairing process, you can have the car key to your Apple Watch (Otherwise you can receive a notification). Now, you have an Apple Watch Car Key compatible car.

How safe is the BMW digital key?

Don’t worry about your digital key. It is saved in the Secure Element on your iPhone. Because the sender and receiver must be in close proximity to communicate, Near-Field Communication technology ensures a high level of data security.

Apple CarPlay is another interesting feature of your smart car. If you're interested in Apple CarPlay, you can find out more about customizing Apple CarPlay through our article.

Conclusion

As previously stated, Car Key functionality requires an iPhone XR, iPhone XS, or newer, while Apple Watch support is limited to the most recent Apple Watch. And, Car Key requires iOS 13.6 or later on your iPhone. BYD, BMW, Hyundai Genesis, and Kia drivers will be able to lock and unlock their vehicles using their iPhones or Apple Watches, as well as start the vehicle when the iPhone is placed in the smartphone tray.

In this article, you were able to learn more about the iPhone Car Key compatible cars 2023, Apple Car Key compatible cars 2023 list, Apple Car Key compatible cars iOS 16, and more. Let’s wait for Apple’s next advanced feature and Apple Car soon.

FAQs about Car Key Apple Compatible Cars

1 Can I use my iPhone as a key fob?

Yes. Drivers can replace physical keys with their iPhone with a Car Key. Simply you can hold your iPhone close to your car's door handle to unlock it using NFC technology. Put your iPhone in the NFC reader or wireless charger to start the car once you are inside it. Also, Android users will be able to lock and unlock their vehicles without taking their phones out by using UWB technology. Users who own car models that have enabled NFC technology, or near-field communication, will be able to lock and unlock their car by tapping their phone against the door.

2 Can I start my car with my iPhone?

Yes. Now you can add your car key to your Wallet app. Also, you can use your iPhone or Apple Watch to lock, unlock, and start your car. But, you need a compatible car to add and use a car key on your iPhone or Apple Watch. You want to contact the manufacturer or your dealership to find out whether your car is compatible or not.

3 Does Mercedes have Apple car key?

Yes! The Mercedes-Benz line-up is packed with premium technology and also upscale features. Drivers can use Apple CarPlay to lock and unlock their vehicle securely from a compatible iPhone. It is one of the most recent additions to the 2021 models. This feature works for up to five hours after your battery dies.

4 What cars will work with Apple Carkey?

Below are the compatible cars with Apple Car Key. Apple car key compatibility List: Apple CarKey BMW - BMW 2 Series, 3 Series, 4 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, 8 Series, X5, X6, X7, X5 M, X6 M, i4, iX, i7 , Z4 Apple CarKey Hyundai Genesis - Genesis GV60, Genesis G90 Kia - Kia Niro, Kia Telluride

Interested in smart car features like CarKey? There are a lot including MyQ smart gate opener. Please visit our blog for more and be smart to make your car smart.