How to Replace a Lost BMW Key If You Have No Spare
Losing your BMW key can be a major hassle particularly if you don't have an extra. Keep a spare key in a safe place such as an open drawer in the kitchen. This will help prevent you from losing your car keys.
The process for obtaining the new BMW fob and key isn't quick. It can take up to two weeks.
How to get a replacement key
Losing your car keys is a major inconvenience and a big headache, particularly if it's your only key. It is important to be prepared and prevent this from happening by having an extra key. Leave your spare in a secure spot or give it to a friend or family member to get it back in the event of need. It's an excellent idea to keep your keys on a ring different place than the place you normally wear them so that they don't escape from your pocket and end up lost.
If you lose the BMW key with fob, the process of replacing it isn't as simple as replacing a standard car key. This is because BMW fobs are equipped with a security chip that allows the vehicle to verify the key, which stops 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 a new key and pair it with your car. The entire process can take several weeks, and you will be without your vehicle during that time.
There are locksmiths who specialize in BMW fobs and keys. These professionals will come to your house or office and cut and program a brand new BMW key. You can save the cost of a tow or extra costs from the dealer. They also provide a variety of services for your car and include replacing the battery on the key fob or keychain.
A spare key is the most effective method to ensure that you don't lose your BMW key. Place it in a secure and safe location and establish a routine to check it on a regular basis. You may also want to consider making it part of your routine to empty your pockets each when you enter your car to prevent them from accidentally falling out.
Replacement battery
A key fob lets you to lock and unlock your car without having turn the ignition. It also allows you to start your car from anywhere and adds an extra layer of security when driving alone. But the battery in your BMW key fob may fail after a long period of usage, which can be frustrating. It's easy to replace the BMW battery at home. First, you must buy a new battery at an auto parts shop or a convenience store. You'll require a CR2032 or a watch battery. Remove the battery that was in use and replace it with a new one. Close the two halves of the BMW key fob and snap them back together once the new battery has been installed.
The procedure for opening and replacing the battery on the BMW key fob is slightly different based on whether you have a Smart Key or Comfort Access Key. The battery for BMWs equipped with a Comfort Access Key is located in the small access port at the side of the keyfob. To open the key fob, press on a small tab and take off the metal valet key. Once the fob has been opened you can see the access port as well as the battery.
To replace the battery, take off the metal key blade and pull the cover off of the BMW fob. You will notice a small access port that you can access using the valet key or a flat screwdriver. After you have removed the battery that was used and replacing it with one of the CR2032 and close the cover. After you've changed the battery, you can put the key blade made of steel back in place and turn the fob to connect it to your vehicle.
It is crucial to replace the key fob battery in a BMW to avoid the hassle of losing keys or cars that are locked. The process of buying an entirely new battery is easy. You can buy it at your local auto parts shop or a convenience store. Then, you can easily program your new BMW key fob by following the same procedure as programming the original one.
Replacement key fob
The key fob can unlock your vehicle, start it and even open the trunk or liftgate. But, with this added function comes the possibility of losing it. If you lose your key fob you might have to visit the autobody shop or dealership to obtain a new one. These replacements can cost a amount. There are numerous ways to save money.
Always keep a spare key fob. This is the best way to avoid having to purchase a new one. Keep it somewhere else rather than on your keychain. For instance, in a kitchen drawer. bmw key fobs store their spare in the glovebox or center console. This will make it much easier to locate in the event that you lose the key fob.
You'll have to look into the coverage of your auto club membership, your car insurance policy, and your warranty in the case of replacing key fobs. Many bumper-to-bumper warranty plans for new cars cover key fob replacements and repairs. If you own a more recent vehicle, make sure to check whether your key fob is a smart key that has rolling-code encryption. These keys are only replaceable and usable with a special dealer program.
Older cars are usually fitted with the standard key and lock system. However, some of them come with keys that have remote locking and remote engine-start capabilities. Fobs with this feature are available as aftermarket items and can be programmed by a locksmith or the dealership. Certain fobs come with keys integrated into them, which are common on SUVs and pick-ups.
A few of these keyfobs could be easily replaced for less than $200. However some of the more expensive ones, such as a display BMW key fob, may cost up to $400 to replace and program. The dealer has to reset the security code and then recode it to allow it to work with your vehicle. This can take anywhere from one to two hours. This process can be more expensive for older vehicles which have been reprogrammed by the factory or an aftermarket company. The reason is that they need to have a reprogramming button.
Blade replacement for key
If the battery inside your BMW key fob is dead, you can still unlock the car manually but you will not be able to use Comfort Access or start the car. To accomplish this, press and hold the button on the bottom of the fob in order to remove the key blade that is inside it and use it as the traditional key. You can also purchase an alternative key fob that has an open key blade from an auto locksmith. Some of them will provide a switchblade key to give added security.
You can also get an additional key blade for the BMW smart key if you've lost the fob or yours has stopped functioning. This type of key comes with an embedded chip that sends an electronic signal that verifies the identity of the key to your vehicle. This will prevent criminals from using an amplifier to steal your key or start your car.
The majority of modern smart keys are paired with unique driver profiles, allowing family members to share the same key with different cars in the household. Some older BMW models don't have this feature. If you lose your key fob you can purchase a replacement from the dealer, and it will be reprogrammed with your vehicle's settings.
BMW's standard fobs are designed to withstand normal levels of moisture like a trip through the washing machine or a mishap in a body of water. The Display Key with touchscreen, however, is not as water resistant and should be treated the same way you would treat the smartphone.
Few locksmiths in the United States are equipped with the required training and tools to laser-cut, cut precodes, and program a BMW keys. One of them is Key Man Lock & Safe Company located at 2050 Wall Ave in Ogden, Utah. They can change your lock at the dealership, or they can come to you.
You can also purchase an alternative BMW key online on the manufacturer's website. However, you'll need to show proof of ownership, and the key fob needs to be programmed to match the vehicle.