BMW Lost Car Key Replacement – All The Information You Need To Know About BMW Replacement Key Fobs, Keyless Entry, Ignition Problems, Cost, Programming, Battery and More
BMW key replacement – All you need to know
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I have lost my BMW key – Now what? What should I do? How do I get a new key?
BMW key replacement near me – things to remember before calling a locksmith
Cutting machine used by an automotive locksmith for BMW keys
BMW key replacement cost – Estimated price for a new key
Flip key transponder – BMW
How long does it take to get a replacement key for BMW cars?
My BMW ignition key won’t turn, what is the reason?
BMW keys replacement – price check, locksmith VS dealer
BMW key replacement by VIN – All you need to know
My BMW ignition key won’t start the car, what may be the reason?
Battery replacement of BMW key fob
BMW key cutting – who can cut and program a new key, what is the procedure, cost and more
Want to get some useful tips before you call a locksmith? Read out blog post Locksmith near me
What you should do when your BMW car key is lost and how to get a replacement:
Generally speaking, you have three options:
- First, call an automotive locksmith that offers a mobile service for BMW cars.
- Second, tow the car to the dealer.
- Third, order a key online and have the dealer or locksmith cut and program (if necessary) it for you.
Call Us 24 Hr: 844-399-5054
For a more detailed explanation including tips on how to SAVE TIME AND MONEY please visit our blog post: How to get a replacement key
BMW key fob replacement and an emergency key to unlock the door (uncut)
Below are some additional tips:
- First, make sure you don’t have a spare key. Many of us put one away as a backup for when we lose our key. Take a deep breath and try to remember where it is.
- Need some help? Here are some great ideas about how to find your lost BMW keys.
- In addition, if you decided to call an automotive locksmith, remember to provide the exact year, make and model, e.g.”I lost my 2010 BMW M3 car keys, I lost my 2016 BMW X5 push to start key” etc. This is important so the locksmith can check if he or she has the right key blank/ transponder key/ key fob.
- Furthermore, remember to ask if the key needs to be programmed or coded, some models do – e.g., a replacement key for a 2008 BMW Z4 transponder key fob will need to be programmed, while a 1998 BMW 335i won’t.
Advanced Diagnostics “Smart Pro” coding machine for BMW car keys
- If you think you need a new ignition switch/ lock cylinder, first make sure you don’t simply need a new key. Changing the ignition for BMW cars is more expensive than buying a replacement key and it will mean that you will have one key for the doors and another for the ignition.
- When calling a dealer to get a BMW replacement key, ask if you can pick up the new key yourself, or whether you have to tow the car there.
- In addition, if the key won’t turn in the ignition, mention if this is something that has happened for the first time or is an ongoing problem.
“Lishi tools” used by an automotive locksmith to decode BMW keys
- Moreover, if you have previously changed the ignition cylinder, tell the locksmith or dealer as it may prevent them from cutting you a new key by code.
- Finally, make sure you have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the car and relevant documents to show ownership of the car: Your BMW title certificate, registration papers, your ID and proof of insurance, etc.
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BMW keys replacement near me – Things to remember before calling a locksmith or dealer
BMW key replacement near me – Relevant information
Calling an automotive locksmith or a dealer near your location when you need a key replacement is probably the most common thing to do. Based on your location, an automotive locksmith can come to you, or you may choose to tow the car to the dealer.
We outline a few points to remember, to help you save some time and money regardless of which option you choose:
MaxiIM 508 car key programming machine for BMW models
- First, always ask for a quote. Describe the problem in detail and give the automotive locksmith all the details, even if you think they may not be relevant.
- Moreover, If the locksmith has all the details, it can speed up the process and make it more cost-effective. Remember to give them your exact location to prevent a long waiting period. It may also affect the price.
- In addition, tell the locksmith/dealer if the ignition was changed before, as far as you know. A previous ignition change may result in different keys for the ignition and doors.
- Most BMW models today are equipped with chips or transponders, so make sure you mention the exact year, make and model and ask the locksmith if they have the necessary tools in their truck to code the key. Not all locksmiths have a key coding machine to program those keys.
Tool to check chip value of BMW car key
- In addition, it’s important to have the VIN number available as the locksmith may need it.
- Finally, remember that for most BMW models, there is no need to tow the car to the dealer should you lose your car keys. An automotive locksmith should be able to make you a new car key on site.
FAQ Lost BMW Key:
Q: How much does it cost to get a replacement remote key fob for my 2011 BMW series 3? I lost my original key, have no spare and need a copy or a duplicate key made.
The answer below is a short explanation. For a more detailed explanation and GREAT TIPS on how to save money, please visit our blog post: BMW keys replacement cost
A: That depends on the year, make and model of your car. To replace a BMW key ranges between $200-$1200. However, that price may vary depends on the availability of code, type of key (chip, fob, “push to start”, remote), your location, time of day and more. Click here to get a more detailed explanation of how to get a replacement key..
As mentioned above, due to BMW’s unique security systems, most chances only the dealer can replace the key for you and therefore we recommend checking with a few dealerships before making a decision as there is a big difference between one another.
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Click to Get a New Key online
Q: How can I know if my 2013 BMW Series 1 key had a chip in it? I understand that some keys need to be programmed and some don’t?
A: A good rule of thumb is that a key that had a plastic cover at the top and/or the vehicle was manufactured after the year 1998 most likely had a chip in it.
Hence, if you’ve lost your BMW key and it had a chip in it, the key will have to be programmed/ coded on site in order to start the car.
Below, an example of the different type of BMW keys & remote “push to start button” fobs:
Fob car key – Fob remote “push to start” car key: Usually looks like some sort of remote. This fob car key has a chip and therefore will need to be programmed.
BMW remote car key replacement
BMW key fob replacement
The next image is of a BMW key that has a transponder chip in it and therefore NEEDS to be coded. The chip is located inside the cover at the top.
BMW high-security car key with a chip
BMW high-security car key with a chip
HU92RP -BMW transponder car key
The next image is of a BMW key that doesn’t contain a chip and therefore DOES NOT NEED to be coded. It’s a simple metal key.
Non-transponder BMW key – No need to program
Non-transponder BMW key – No need to program
Q: I lost my 2016 BMW X6 fob car key and have no spare. I need to know how long does it take and do you make replacement Lost BMW keys on site?
A: The process for a new BMW key or fob, can take up to two days to complete. That depends on how many keys are already programmed into the system. If you had one or two keys and they both lost, then the dealer should be able to program you a new key within an hour or two.
However, in case more than 5 (depends on which model you have) keys have already been lost, a new computer may be needed to be ordered and replaced and therefore the process will take longer.
We offer fast 24/7 automotive locksmith services for some BMW models including Emergency lockout service, car keys replacement, ignition repair and more.
Click to Get a New Key online
Q: My 1996 BMW 533i ignition key won’t turn and my steering wheel is locked. What is the reason and can you change my ignition for me? What should I do? How can I get a new BMW ignition?
Rekey kit to change BMW ignition cylinder parts
A: There may be a few reasons why the ignition key won’t turn. Worn out key, stuck, rusted ignition or broken wafers. An automotive locksmith for BMW cars can determine the reason on-site and solution. We can help you with that.
In addition, in case you lost your BMW ignition key, please remember that in most cases, there is no need to change the ignition. For more information please visit: My ignition key wont turn
Q: Can you explain why there is a difference in the cost of replacement keys between BMW models? What would be the price for a newer model at the dealer VS an automotive locksmith?
A: The price for BMW key replacement varies depends on the make and model. There are mainly two different types of BMW keys when it comes to replacement key cost:
- Non-transponder chip key – No need to program the key.
- Transponder chip keys – Need to program the key.
Here we will give an example of what the expected price for a key replacement would be:
Non-transponder replacement key cost –
Non-transponder BMW key replacement
Dealer:
Since these no programming is needed, you can call the dealer to cut you a new replacement key and pick it up at your convenience.
However, in case the ignition was changed before, as may happen with older models, the codes the dealer has on file will not work and therefore the key won’t turn in the ignition.
In addition, important to remember that the dealer has only codes for the original ignition and up to certain years on file. In case the car is too old, it may be a problem to get a replacement key from the dealer.
Estimated cost: Usually around $75 for a new key.
Automotive locksmith:
A locksmith usually charges a service fee plus the cost of the parts and labor for a replacement key. Therefore, you should expect to pay more than the dealer would charge.
However, since the cost of a non-transponder chip key is minor you shouldn’t pay much more than the dealer charge and you have the convenience of a solution at your location as many locksmiths offer mobile service.
In addition, since the cost of a non-transponder chip key is minor(compared to a transponder) you shouldn’t pay much more than the dealer charge and you have the convenience of a solution at your location as many locksmiths offer mobile service.
Estimated cost: Usually around $135.
Transponder chip / “push to start” / fob / remote BMW replacement key cost –
BMW remote key fob cost
BMW transponder key replacement cost
Dealer:
These types of keys have to be programmed in order to start the car and therefore the car will have to be towed to the dealership which will result in an additional cost.
The estimated cost for a transponder key: Usually around $300 for a new key.
An estimated cost for a remote key: Usually around $1000 for a new key.
Automotive locksmith:
An automotive locksmith usually doesn’t carry the necessary keys and equipment to regenerate new BMW key fobs or transponder. Therefore, the dealer is the only option.
Q: Can I get a BMW key replacement by VIN?
Automotive locksmith is connecting the coding machine to the car’s obd to program new keys
A: That depends on the year of manufacture of your car and the type of key you had.
The VIN gives BMW dealers or automotive locksmiths the option of accessing the key code on file – i.e., to cut you a replacement key by code which makes the process very fast and easy. There are however two things to consider:
- For vehicles older than 15 years: BMW dealers may not keep a record for vehicles older than 15 years. An automotive locksmith is therefore your only option to get a replacement key.
- For vehicles equipped with a transponder system and/or a remote/intelligent key/fob key: Codes are available. However, as coding is required, you will have to tow the car to the dealer.
Click here to learn more about VIN number.
Q: My 2009 BMW X3 chip key will not start the car. The battery is new, the lights are on and the radio works. What may be the reason?
A: There may be a few reasons why the key won’t start the car. A mechanical problem or key related problem. Please visit: My ignition key won’t start the car for more information.
Q: BMW key cutting – Who can cut and program a new key for my car? Can I get it done at any hardware store or should I go to an automotive locksmith or dealer? What is the procedure and how much does it cost?
“Blank” uncut BMW car key
A: There are many different types of BMW keys. Some can be cut with a basic cutting machine (mostly for older models made before 1995) and some, such as laser cut keys, can only be cut with a more advanced machine, which not all locksmiths carry, and definitely not hardware stores. Therefore, you should do your research before you decide where to get your BMW key cut.
The next image is of a non-transponder regular key on a cutting machine:
Manual car key cutting machine (HPC) – for BMW keys
The next image is of a high-security cutting machine:
High-security car key cutting machine – Mostly used for BMW keys made AFTER 1995
In addition, there are a few things to consider:
As mentioned above, your best bet would be to contact the dealer as replacing BMW keys require not only a special cutting machine but also unique programming tools and software. However, if this is not an emergency and would like to do your research you may be able to find a locksmith who can help. here are some tips to help you save some money.
First, you have to remember that cutting a new BMW key probably won’t be enough for you to start your vehicle as most BMW models made after 2000 requires coding in addition to cutting the key. Saying that, you will have to take care of coding the keys as well AFTER you had your key cut.
The next image is of a cut key (or key fob) and a programming machine for BMW Models:
Second, try to get the key code, which makes the process of cutting a new key very fast, from your dealer. They should be able to provide it for you after verification that you are the owner. Once you have this code, any locksmith should be able to cut you the key within minutes, and it would be cheaper as well.
How much should you expect to pay for cutting your BMW key? (Not including coding/programming)
“Blank” uncut BMW car keys
Laser-cut keys or remote emergency keys – About $80 if you have the key code. (If not about $130)
Regular key, transponder keys – about $30 if you have the key code. (If not about $80)
Click to Get a New Key online
