How to Replace a Lost BMW Key If You Have No Spare
If you don't keep an extra key, losing your BMW key is a big trouble. Keep your spare keys in a safe place such as an open drawer in the kitchen. This will prevent you from misplacing keys to your car.
The process of obtaining a new BMW key and fob is not a quick one. It can take upwards of two weeks.
How do I obtain a new key
Losing your car keys is an extremely frustrating and huge headache, especially when it's your only key. Make a plan and have an extra car key in order to avoid this. You can leave your spare key in a secure location or hand it over to someone you trust so that you can retrieve it if necessary. Keep your keys on a keyring a different place than you usually wear them. This will reduce the chance that they'll disappear from your pocket.
If you lose the BMW key that has a fob, replacing it isn't as simple as replacing the standard car key. BMW fobs come with a security chip, which allows the vehicle to confirm that the key is valid. This prevents thieves from using your car. To replace a fob, you need to visit the dealer and present proof of ownership such as a registration certificate or title. The dealer will then order the new key and then pair it with your car. The entire process could take several weeks and you'll be without your car for that time.
There are now locksmiths that specialize in BMW fobs and keys. These professionals will come to your office or home and cut and program a new BMW key. You will not have to pay the cost of a tow and the additional charges from the car dealer. They provide a variety of services, including replacing the battery in your key fob or keychain.
The possession of a spare key is the most effective method to avoid losing your BMW key. It is best to keep it in a secure and safe place and make it a habit to check it regularly. It is also advisable to make it part of your routine to empty your pockets every time you get into your car to prevent the pockets from falling out.
Replacement battery
A key fob is an excellent tool that gives you the ability to lock and unlock your vehicle without having to physically turn the ignition. It allows you to start your car remotely, and adds an extra layer of security when you are driving on your own. The battery in your BMW's key fob might be damaged after years of use. This can be very frustrating. Fortunately, it isn't difficult to replace the BMW key fob's battery at home. The first step is to purchase a new battery at an auto parts shop or convenience store. You'll require a CR2032, also known as a watch battery. Then, carefully remove the existing battery and insert the new one in its place. Close the two halves of the BMW key fob and snap them together once the new battery is installed.
The procedure for opening and replacing the battery in the case of a BMW key fob is slightly different based on whether you have a Smart Key or Comfort Access Key. For BMWs which use a Comfort Access Key, the battery is located in an access port that is small on the back of the key fob. To open the keyfob press an elongated tab, then remove the valet made of metal. When the fob is open you will be able to see the access port and the battery.
To replace the battery, remove the metal key blade and then pull the cover off of the BMW fob. There will be a small access port, which you can open by using the valet key or a flat screwdriver. After removing the old battery, replace it with one of the CR2032 and close the cover. Once you've replaced the battery, you can put the metal key blade back into position and turn the fob on to sync it to your vehicle.
It is crucial to replace the key fob battery in the case of a BMW to prevent the hassle of losing keys or locked cars. The process of purchasing a new battery is relatively straightforward. You can buy it at your local auto parts store or a convenience store. After that, you can program your new BMW key fob by following the same steps as programming your original one.
Key fob replacement
The key fob is able to unlock your vehicle and start it, or open the trunk or liftgate. This added functionality also increases the chance of losing your key fob. You may need go to a dealer or autobody shop if you lose your keyfob. However, these replacements can be expensive. There are a variety of ways to save money.
First, always keep a spare key fob. This is the best way to prevent having to purchase a key fob. It is a good idea to keep it somewhere different than your keychain, like in a drawer in your kitchen. Some people store their spare keys in their center console or glovebox. This makes it easier to find if 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. A lot of bumper-to-bumper warranties for new cars include key fob repairs and replacements. If you own a more recent vehicle, make sure to check whether your key fob is a"smart" key that is encrypted using rolling-code. The keys can only be replaced and usable with a special dealer program.
Older cars usually have the traditional key-and-lock system. Even older cars come with key fobs with remote locking and remote engine start capabilities. Fobs of this type are available as aftermarket products and can be programmed by a locksmith or the dealership. Some of them also include a key blade into the fob, which is commonly found in pick-ups and SUVs.
A few of these keyfobs could be replaced for less that $200. Some of the more expensive key fobs, such as one that is a BMW display key fob can cost up to 400 dollars to replace and reprogram. The dealer must reset the security code and recode the key for it to work with your car. This can take up to one hour. This process is more expensive for older vehicles which have been reprogrammed by the factory or an aftermarket business. This is because they need to have an pin for reprogramming.
Blade replacement for key
If your BMW key fob has gone without a battery, you may still be able to unlock your car by hand, but you will not 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 buy an alternative keyfob that has a removable blade from an auto locksmith. Certain key fobs will offer the option of a switchblade to increase security.
You can also purchase an additional key blade for an BMW smart key if you've lost the fob or it has stopped functioning. This kind of key has a special chip built in that transmits an electronic signal to your vehicle that verifies its identity. This will stop criminals from using signal amplifiers to steal your keys or start your car.
Most modern smart keys come with unique driver profiles, allowing family members to use the same key for different cars in the household. However, some older BMW models do not have this feature. If you've lost your key fob you can get replacements from the dealer and then have it reprogrammed to match your vehicle's settings.
BMW's standard fobs have the ability to withstand normal humidity levels, such as a run through the washing machine or a mishap in a body of water. However the Display Key with touchscreen is slightly less resistant to water and should be treated like you would an iPhone.
Only a handful of locksmiths in the United States are equipped with the required training and tools to laser-cut, precode and program a BMW keys. One of them is the Key Man Lock & Safe Company, located at 2050 Wall Ave in Ogden, Utah. bmw key fob can make a replacement for you at the dealership or come to your home to do it.
You can also order an alternative BMW key online on the website of the manufacturer. You will need to provide proof of vehicle ownership and the key fob needs to be changed to a new program.