The Hidden Secrets Of BMW Keys
What to Do When You Lose Your BMW Keys
BMW cars are costly, and they are equipped with sophisticated anti-theft technology. This makes them hard to take however, it can also make things if you lose keys.
The first thing you should do if you've lost your BMW key is to call the dealership. But this might not be the most practical option. You could consider hiring a locksmith instead.
1. Call the Dealership
It's been a long, tiring day. You're eager to go home and unwind in your comfy sweats. Grab some pizza and binge-watch your favorite show. But before you can do any of that, you have to make one last stop to return your vehicle keys - which you haven't seen since the start of the day.
There are several options to choose from when you require a replacement BMW key. The first option is to go to the dealership. You'll be asked for proof of ownership as well as an ID valid. If you have any other keys, they will also require them. The dealership will then order the correct key for your vehicle and then pair it with the computer chip. The process can take up to two weeks and cost you $200 if do not have a spare key.
Contacting a locksmith is another option. Locksmiths are able to cut BMW keys at the cost of a fraction of what a dealership charges. In addition to cutting the blank, locksmiths can also program it to your vehicle. This can save you time and money. However, you will require an experienced locksmith who is reliable.
If you have a spare key, you may try to use it to unlock your vehicle. If not have bmw key replacement , you'll have to get your vehicle towed by a dealership to replace the key fob that was lost. This is expensive, time-consuming and expensive method of getting back on the road, unless you have a roadside emergency plan like Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO.
Online sellers provide a less expensive alternative to visiting an agent. This is a more affordable option, but it will need to be programmed by an expert locksmith or dealer to match your car, which can increase the cost of the replacement. If you choose to buy a blank online make sure you check the reputation of the seller and read customer reviews.
2. Call a locksmith
BMW keys and fobs may appear as a minor accessory but they're actually sophisticated pieces of technology that enhance security. BMW keys are fitted with transponder chips. These chips provide a unique identification to the vehicle every time they are placed in the ignition. They can also be programmed to store personal settings, like mirror and seat positions, radio presets and more. This level of sophistication makes keys extremely secure and difficult to take. However, it makes them harder to replace if they're lost or damaged.
It is essential to prepare for such a situation by keeping a spare key in a secure location, having the number of a reputable locksmith on your phone and knowing the cost of replacing a key. It is crucial to determine the kind of key or fob in your car, as replacing them will be different depending on its unique design.
If bmw key replacement have an old double-edged lock with the keyfob, you can typically find a replacement at a local hardware shop for less than $10. However, if you own a modern key fob that requires a special programming, you'll have to visit an auto locksmith or a dealership to ensure that the new fob is correctly configured to the vehicle you own.
Before a new key is made the locksmith or dealer will be required to verify your identity and ownership of the vehicle to guard against fraud and unauthorized duplicate keys. This typically requires a copy your driver's licence or registration of your vehicle, or a title.
It is crucial to realize that the process of getting the new fob and key could take up to two weeks, and during that time you'll be unable to drive your car. Therefore, it is recommended to invest in key protection insurance that will pay for the replacement of keys lost 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, tiring day and you're just dying to go home, change into comfy sweatpants, order some pizza and binge on your favorite show. But then you realize you've lost your car keys. This is the worst feeling and can make your evening miserable.
There are ways to cut out the hassle and ensure you always have spare keys available. One option is to get a blank key cut. This can be done by the dealership or by a locksmith. The process is easy and requires only a few tools.
You'll first have to locate the keyhole on your BMW. The keyhole is located at the bottom of the door handle, beneath the trim panel. Once you've located the keyhole, you'll be able to remove the trim panel to expose it.
The next step is to clamp the original and a blank together using a vice. Use a file to shape an unfinished blank to look like the original. File slowly and carefully to avoid scraping the original key. Once the blank has been formed, you can place it against a flame to make it black. This will make it easier to read the marks left by the lock.
4. Get a replacement
If your BMW includes a smart key (also called a proximity key) it is recommended to get that replaced too. The keys emit an electronic code that opens the doors of your vehicle and then can start the engine. This is a great security measure to keep your vehicle secure. Smart keys can be lost, but they're not perfect. The dealer will need to purchase a new key, which is expensive. The dealer may take up to one week to process and ship the new key. This can increase the cost.
The good news is that it's not impossible to find an alternative for a BMW key fob. You can buy BMW remote key fobs and have them delivered to your residence. They are typically less expensive than buying from a dealer and will reduce the need to drive to the dealership to purchase the replacement key. To avoid confusion when ordering replacement keys, ensure you have your VIN and evidence of ownership.
Another benefit of buying online BMW key fobs is that they include a battery. This is important, because the battery in a standard key fob is likely to wear out and require replacement. If the battery is defective the fob could cease to function, which can be dangerous for drivers. Fortunately, you can find a replacement for your BMW's key fob from the manufacturer with little fuss and if you have your government ID and proof of ownership to go.
Losing keys is always a headache but a BMW loss can be particularly frustrating. You should know your options when replacing a lost BMW Key, so that you can pick the best option for your situation. In the future, make an effort to be extra cautious when it comes to keys for your car, so you do not lose them in the first place! If you do, be sure to look in your pockets or your car for keys, as well as places you don't typically keep them.