The Most Common BMW Keys Mistake Every Beginner Makes

What to Do When You Lose Your BMW Keys
BMW cars are costly, and they come with sophisticated anti-theft technology. This makes them hard to steal, but can make things when you lose your keys.
If you've lost your BMW key, the first step is to call your dealership. This may not be your most convenient option. You might consider hiring locksmiths instead.
1. Call the Dealership
You've had a long and tiring day. You're just looking to get home and relax in your cozy sweats. Get some pizza and binge-watch your favorite show. But before you can do any of that, you have to make one last stop and return your keys to your car that you haven't seen since the start of the day.
There are a lot of options for getting your BMW key replacement. The first option is to visit the dealership. You'll be asked for proof of ownership as well as an ID that is valid. If you have any other keys, they will also require them. The dealership will then purchase the appropriate key for your car and pair it with the chip in your car's computer. The process can take upwards of two weeks, and will cost you around $200 in the event that you do not have a backup key.
Another option is to call a locksmith. Many locksmiths have the tools to cut a BMW key, and can often do it for a fraction of the cost of dealerships. In addition to cutting the blank, a locksmith can also program it to your vehicle. This can save you time and money. But, you'll require a professional locksmith who is reliable.
If you have an extra key, you may try to use it to unlock your car. If you don't have an additional key, you'll need to tow your vehicle to a dealer to replace the lost fob. This can be expensive, time-consuming and expensive method of getting back on the road unless you have a roadside plan like Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO.
Online sellers offer a cheaper alternative to visiting a dealer. This is a cheaper alternative however, it will need to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer to match your vehicle, which could increase the cost of replacement. If you do choose to purchase a blank online be sure to verify the reputation of the seller and read customer reviews.
2. Contact a locksmith
BMW keys and fobs can appear to be insignificant, but they are actually sophisticated pieces of technology that improve security. BMW keys are equipped with transponder chips that transmit a unique electronic ID to the car when they are inserted in the ignition, and are programmed to store personal settings, such as seat and mirror positioning, radio presets, and more. This level of sophistication makes keys extremely secure and difficult to take. However, it also makes them harder to replace in the event that they become damaged or lost.
Therefore, it is crucial to be prepared for this kind of scenario by storing a spare key in a secure location and ensuring you have a reputable locksmith in your phone contacts, and understanding the basic cost of replacing a key. In the beginning, it is essential to know the type of key and fob you have in your vehicle since the procedure for replacing the items will vary based on their unique design.
For instance, if own a traditional double-edged vehicle key with a key fob on it You can typically have a new one from an hardware store in your area for less than $10. If you have a key fob with a special program you'll need to visit a dealer or a locksmith to ensure the new fob is correctly configured to your vehicle.
Before a new key is made the locksmith or dealer will require proof of your identity and ownership of the vehicle in order to protect against fraud and unauthorized key duplication. This typically requires an original copy of your driver's licence and registration for your vehicle or title.
It is crucial to understand that getting a replacement key and fob could take up to two full weeks. In this time, you will not be able drive your car. In this case it is advised to purchase key protection coverage which will cover the cost of replacing your lost keys and also provide you with a rental car reimbursement in the event of an unexpected loss.
3. Cut a Key Blank
It's been a long day and you're eager to go home, change into comfortable sweatpants, eat some pizza and binge watch your favorite show. But then you realize you've lost your car keys. This is the worst feeling and can ruin your evening plans.
There are ways to avoid the hassle and ensure that you always have spare keys in your possession. One option is having a blank key cut. This can be done by the dealership or a locksmith. The procedure is relatively easy and requires only a few tools.
You'll first have to find the keyhole on your BMW. It's under the trim on the bottom of your door handle. Once you've located the keyhole, you can take off the trim panel to expose it.
Then you can clamp the original and blank together using a vise. Use a file to form a blank to resemble the original. Be sure to do this slowly and cautiously in order not to scrape the original key. Once the blank is shaped then you can put it against a flame to blacken it with soot. This will make it easier to discern the marks left by the lock.
4. Get replacement bmw key
If your BMW includes smart keys (also known as a proximity key), you'll want to replace it as well. These keys emit an electronic code that unlocks your car doors and begins the engine. This is a fantastic security measure to ensure your car is secure. Smart keys can be lost, but they're not ideal. The dealer will have to order another key, which could be costly. It can take up to one week for the dealer to process and send your new key, which will increase the cost.
It's not impossible to replace a BMW key fob. You can buy BMW remote key fobs on the internet and have them delivered directly to your door. These are often much cheaper than purchasing them from a dealer, and can also spare you the hassle of driving to the dealership to purchase a replacement key. To avoid confusion when ordering replacement keys, ensure you have your VIN and proof of ownership handy.
Online BMW key fobs also have a built-in battery. This is important because the battery in a normal keyfob is eventually worn out and need to be changed. If the battery is faulty, the fob may not function properly, and this could be dangerous while driving. If you have your government-issued ID and evidence of ownership, you can purchase an additional key fob to your BMW with little hassle.
It's not fun to lose keys, but losing the BMW key can be especially stressful. You must know your options when replacing the lost BMW Key so that you can select the best option for your particular situation. Be extra cautious in the future when it comes to your car keys, so that you don't ever lose them! Make sure you check your pockets, your car and other places you don't normally keep your keys.