How to Replace a Lost BMW Key If You Have No Spare
The loss of your BMW key can be a major inconvenience especially in the event that you don't own a spare. It is best to keep a spare in a secure location, such as a drawer in your kitchen. This will prevent you from losing keys to your car.
The process of getting an entirely new BMW fob and key is not an easy one. It could take up to two weeks.
How do I get a replacement key
It's a major trouble and a headache in the event that you lose your car keys, particularly when it's the only one you have. Plan ahead and have a spare car key to avoid this. You can leave your spare key in a secure location or give it to someone you trust to be able to find it in the event of need. Keep your keys on a key ring in a different place than you usually wear them. This will reduce the chance that they will fall out of your pocket.
If you lose a BMW key that has a fob, the process of replacing it isn't the same as replacing the car key. This is due to the fact that BMW fobs are equipped with a security chip that allows the vehicle to verify the key, preventing thieves from operating your car. To replace a fob, you'll need to visit the dealership and provide evidence of ownership, like a registration or title. The dealer will then order an additional key and connect it with your car. The entire process could take a few weeks and you'll be without a vehicle during that period.
There are now locksmiths who specialize in BMW keys and fobs. These experts can visit your home or workplace and create a new key and program it to work with your vehicle. This can save you the cost of towing and additional costs from your dealer. They also offer a range of services for your car such as replacing the battery in the key fob or keychain.
Having a spare key is the best way to prevent losing your BMW key. Keep it in a secure and safe place and make it your habit to check it regularly. You may also want to consider making it a part of your routine to empty your pockets each time you get in your vehicle to avoid them from accidentally falling out.
Replacement battery
A key fob is a useful tool that allows you the ability to lock and unlock your car without having to physically turn the ignition. It also allows you to start your car from a distance and adds an extra layer of security when you're driving alone. But the battery in your BMW key fob may fail after years of use and can cause frustration. Luckily, it's not that difficult to replace the BMW key fob's battery at home. The first step is to purchase a new battery from the local auto parts store or convenience shop. You'll require a CR2032 battery, which is also commonly known as a "watch" battery. After that, remove the battery that is in use and replace the new one. The two halves of the BMW key fob and then snap them together once the new battery is installed.
The procedure for opening and replacing the key fob battery in the case of a BMW vehicle is a bit different depending on whether it uses a Comfort Access or Smart Key. bmw key programmer for BMWs equipped with a Comfort Access Key is located in the access port that is small located on the back of the keyfob. To open the key fob, you need to press in a small tab and remove the metal valet key. Once the fob is opened, the access port and battery will be visible.
To replace the battery, remove the metal key blade and then pull the cover off of the BMW fob. There is a small port that you can open with the valet key or a flat-headed screwdriver. Once the old battery is removed, put in a new CR2032 battery and close the cover. Once you've replaced the battery, place the key blade made of metal back into place and switch the fob on to connect it to your car.
To avoid the hassles of locked cars and keys that are lost, it's important to change the key fob batteries in a BMW. The process of buying a new battery is relatively easy. You can purchase it at your local auto parts shop or convenience store. Then, you can easily program your replacement BMW key fob with the same procedure as programming your original one.
Replacement key fob
The key fob is a handy, high-tech feature that allows you to unlock your vehicle, start it, and even open the trunk or liftgate. This additional function increases the possibility of losing your key fob. It is possible to have to visit a dealer or autobody shop if you lose your key fob. These replacements can cost a amount. Fortunately, there are several ways to save money.
Always have a spare fob. This is the best way to avoid having to purchase a new one. It is a good idea to keep it somewhere other than your keychain, like in a drawer in your kitchen. Some people keep their spare in the glovebox or center console. This makes it easier to locate if you lose the fob.
When it comes to replacing the key fob you should check your warranty, insurance policy and auto club membership coverage. Many bumper-to-bumper warranties on new cars will cover key fob repair and replacements. Find out if your key fob uses rolling-code encryption if it is a more recent car. These keys require a special program from the dealer to replace and use.
Older cars are usually fitted with the traditional key and lock system. Even older cars come with key fobs that have remote locking and remote engine start capabilities. These fobs are available aftermarket and can be programmed by a locksmith, or at the dealership. Some also have a key blade integrated into the fob, which is common in SUVs and pick-ups.
Some of these key fobs are able to be replaced for less than $200. Some of the more expensive key fobs, like a BMW display key fob, could cost as much as 400 dollars to replace and reprogram. The dealer must reset the security code and re-code the key to work with your car which could take as long as an hour. This process is more expensive for older cars which have been reprogrammed by the factory or by an aftermarket company. This is because they need to have an reprogramming pin.
Replacement key blade
If your BMW key fob has gone without a battery, you may still be able unlock the car by hand, but you won't be able to use Comfort Access or start the engine. Press and hold the button on the base of the fob until the internal blade is removed. Then use it as normal keys. You can also purchase an alternative key fob that has a removable key blade from an auto locksmith. Some of these will even provide a switchblade key to give added security.
You can also get a new key blade for the BMW smart key if you've lost the fob or it has stopped functioning. This key type has an embedded chip that sends an electronic signal to verify the identity of the key to your vehicle. This stops criminals from using signal amplifiers to take your keys and start your vehicle.
Modern smart keys have driver profiles that are specific to each family member. This lets them use the same key fob across different vehicles in the home. Some older BMW models do not have this feature. If you've lost your key fob you can get a replacement from the dealer and then have it reprogrammed to match your vehicle's settings.
BMW's standard key fobs can be used in normal conditions of moisture like accidental immersion in water or an accidental trip through a washing machine. The Display Key with touchscreen, however, is less waterproof and should be treated in the same way you would treat a smartphone.
A handful of locksmiths in the United States have the training and equipment necessary to laser cut, pre-code and program BMW keys. Key Man Lock & Safe Company is located at 2050 Wall Ave, Ogden, Utah. They can provide your replacement at the dealership or even come to your home to make it.
You can also order a replacement BMW key online through the website of the manufacturer. However, you will have to provide proof of ownership and the key fob has to be programmed to match the vehicle.