How to Replace a Lost BMW Key If You Have No Spare
If you don't keep an extra spare and lose your BMW key can be a huge trouble. Keep your spare keys in a safe location like a kitchen drawer. This will prevent you from getting lost keys to your car.
The process of getting a new BMW key and fob is not an easy one. It can take up to two weeks.
Getting a replacement key
Misplacing car keys can be an extremely frustrating and big headache, particularly if you're the only one with keys. It is important to plan ahead and prevent this from happening by having an extra key. You can leave your spare key in a secure location or hand it over to someone you trust to be able to retrieve it if necessary. Keep your keys on a key ring in a different place than you usually wear them. This will reduce the chance that they'll disappear from your pocket.
It is more difficult to replace the BMW fob key than a standard key. BMW fobs have a security chip that allows the vehicle to confirm that the key is valid. This stops thieves from using your car. To replace a BMW fob, you will have to visit the dealer and provide proof of ownership such as the title or registration. The dealer will order an alternative key and connect it with your vehicle. The entire process could take several weeks and you'll be without a car for that time.
There are now locksmiths who specialize in BMW keys and fobs. These experts can visit your workplace or home and make a new key and program it to work with your vehicle. You can save the cost of a tow or extra charges from the car dealer. They provide a variety of services, such as replacing the battery inside your key fob or keychain.
Having a spare key is the best method to avoid losing your BMW key. Place it in a secure and safe location and make it a habit to check it frequently. You should also consider making it part of your routine to empty your pockets every time you get in your car to prevent them from falling out.
Replacement battery
A key fob is a handy tool that gives you the ability to lock and unlock your vehicle without the need to turn the ignition. It lets you start the car remotely, and adds an extra layer of security when driving by yourself. But the battery in your BMW key fob could die after a long period of usage which can be a hassle. It's not difficult to replace the BMW key fob's battery at home. The first step is to purchase an additional battery from the local auto parts store or convenience shop. You'll require a CR2032 battery, which is also commonly called a "watch" battery. After that, remove the existing battery and insert the new one in its place. Once the new battery has been installed place, close the BMW key fob's two halves and then snap them back together.
The process to open and replace the battery on the key fob of the case of a BMW vehicle differs depending on whether it is a Comfort Access or Smart Key. For BMWs that use a Comfort Access Key, the battery is located in the small access port on the side of the key fob. To open the keyfob press a small tab in and take off the metal valet. When key bmw is open, you can see the access port as well as the battery.
To replace the battery on the BMW fob, take off the blade made of metal and then pull off the cover. There will be an access port in the small size that you can access using the valet key or a flat screwdriver. Once the old battery is removed, insert a new CR2032 battery and then close the cover. After replacing the battery place the metal blade back in place and turn on the fob to sync it with your car.
It's important to replace the key fob battery in a BMW to prevent the hassle of losing keys or cars that are locked. You can purchase a brand new battery at a local auto parts store or convenience shop, and the process is relatively easy. You can program your replacement BMW keyfob using the same steps that you used to program your original.
Key fob replacement
The key fob is able to unlock your vehicle and start it, or open the trunk or liftgate. This feature also increases the chance of losing your key fob. If you lose your key fob you might have to visit the dealership or an autobody shop to obtain a new one. The replacements can cost a considerable amount. Fortunately, there are several ways to save money.
First, always have a spare key fob. This is the best way to avoid having to purchase a new one. It is a good idea to store it somewhere other than your keychain. For instance, in a drawer in the kitchen. Some people also put their spare in a glove box or center console. This makes it easier to locate if you lose the key fob.
You'll need to check the coverage of your auto club membership, your car insurance policy, and your warranty when it comes to replacing key fobs. Many bumper-to-bumper warranty plans for new cars cover key fob replacements and repairs. If you own a more recent car, check to see whether your key fob is a"smart" key that has rolling-code encryption. They are only replaceable and can be used with a dealer program.
Older cars are typically equipped with the traditional key and lock system. However, a few of them have keys that have remote locking and remote engine-start capabilities. These are available on the on the secondary market and can be programmed by a locksmith, or at the dealership. Certain fobs come with key blades included they are commonly found on pick-ups or SUVs.
Some of these key fobs are able to be replaced for less than $200. But, some of the more expensive ones, like one that displays BMW key fob, could cost up to $400 to replace and program. The dealer has to reset the security code, and then recode the key to allow it to work with your vehicle. This can take up to one hour. This process is more expensive for older cars which have been reprogrammed by the factory or by an aftermarket company. This is due to the fact that they have to have an reset pin.
Blade replacement for key
If the battery inside your BMW key fob is dead, you can still unlock the car with a key, but will not be able use Comfort Access, or start the vehicle. To do this you need to press and hold the button on the bottom of the fob in order to remove the internal key blade and use it like the traditional key. You can also purchase an alternative keyfob that has blades that can be removed from an auto locksmith. Some will provide a switchblade for added security.
If you have lost your key or it is no longer functioning, you can order a new keyblade for the BMW Smart Key. This type of key comes with an embedded chip that transmits an electronic signal to verify the authenticity of the key to your vehicle. This prevents criminals from using a signal amplifier to steal your key or to start your car.
The majority of modern smart keys are paired with unique driver profiles, allowing family members to use the same fob for multiple cars within the household. However there are some older BMW models don't have this feature. If you lose your key fob, you can buy a replacement at the dealer and it will be programmed according to the settings of your vehicle.
BMW's standard key fobs can withstand normal levels of moisture like an accidental splash in water or an accidental trip through the washing machine. The Display Key with touchscreen, however, isn't as water-resistant and should be treated the same way you would treat smartphones.
A handful of locksmiths in the United States have the training and equipment required to laser cut, pre-code, and program BMW keys. One of them is the Key Man Lock & Safe Company, located at 2050 Wall Ave in Ogden, Utah. They can replace your lock at the dealership or they can come to your home.
You can also order a replacement BMW key online through the official website of the manufacturer. However, you will have to show proof of ownership, and the key fob must be reprogrammed to match your vehicle.