Could BMW Keys Be The Key For 2023's Challenges?
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 extremely difficult to take however, it can also make things when you lose the key.
The first thing to do in the event that you lose your BMW key is call the dealership. However, this isn't the most efficient option. You could consider hiring a locksmith instead.
1. Call the Dealership
It's been a long, tiring day. You're just looking to get home and relax in your cozy sweats. Grab some pizza and binge-watch your favorite show. But before you can do anything, you have to make one final stop and give your keys back to your vehicle 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 going to the dealership. You'll need proof of ownership and an acceptable photo ID and any other sets of keys you own. The dealership will then request the right key for your vehicle and then pair it with the chip in your car's computer. The process can take between two and three weeks and cost you $200 if do not have a spare key.
Another option is to speak with a locksmith. A lot of locksmiths have the equipment to cut the BMW key, and they can typically do it at a fraction of the cost of a dealership. In addition to cutting the blank, a locksmith can also program it into your vehicle. This can save you a lot of time and money, but you'll need to be sure to find a reliable professional locksmith.
If you have a spare key, you can try to use it to unlock your car. If you don't, you'll need to have your vehicle towed to the dealership to replace your lost key fob. This is an expensive, unwieldy and expensive method of getting back on the road, unless you have a roadside assistance plan like Emergency Roadside Service by GEICO.
Online sellers can be a cheaper alternative to going to dealers. This can be a more affordable option, but you'll need to have it programmed for your specific car by a dealer or locksmith, which can increase the overall price of the replacement. If you decide to buy a blank online make sure to research the seller's reputation as well as reviews from customers.
2. Call a Locksmith
BMW keys and fobs can appear as a minor accessory but they're actually sophisticated pieces of technology that increase security. BMW keys are fitted with transponder chips that transmit a unique ID to the vehicle when they are put into the ignition. They can also be programmed to remember personal settings like mirror and seat positions, radio presets, and more. This level of sophistication makes them incredibly safe and hard to steal however, it also means that they are more complex to replace in the case of damage or loss.
It is essential to be prepared for the eventuality by keeping a spare in an appropriate location, keeping the number of a reliable locksmith on your phone, and knowing the cost of the replacement of a key. It is essential to identify the type of key or fob that is in your car, as replacing them will be different in accordance with the unique design.
For instance, if you have a traditional double-edged car key that has an accessory key fob you can usually get a new one from a local hardware store for less than $10. If The Key Lab have a keyfob that is programmable or an exclusive program, you will need to go to a dealer or a locksmith to ensure that the new key fob is properly configured to the vehicle you own.
Before a new key is made the locksmith or dealer will require proof of your identity and the ownership of the vehicle in order to safeguard against unauthorized key duplicates. This will typically require a copy of your driver's license, registration for your vehicle or title.
It is crucial to realize that the process of obtaining the new key and fob might take up to two weeks, during which you will not be able to drive your car. In this case it is recommended to purchase key protection insurance which will pay for the replacement of keys that have been lost and will provide you with rental car reimbursement in the event of an unforeseen loss.
3. Cut a Key Blank
You've been through a long, exhausting day. You just want to go home and change into your comfortable sweatshirt and watch your favorite TV show. But then you realize that you've lost your car keys. This is the worst feeling, and can make your evening miserable.
There are ways to avoid this hassle and make sure you always have a spare key in your arsenal. You can get a new, blank key made. This can be done either by the dealer or by a locksmith. The procedure is relatively simple and requires a couple of tools.
First, you'll have to find the keyhole on your BMW. The keyhole is located on the bottom of the door handle, underneath the trim. You can take off the trim panel once you've found the keyhole.
Then take the blank and original in a vise. Use a file to shape a blank to resemble the original. Be sure to do this slowly and cautiously so that you don't to scratch the original key. Once the blank has been cut, you can hold it over a flame to darken it with soot. 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 known as 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 begins the engine. This technology is an excellent anti-theft measure that keeps your vehicle safe. However, it's not perfect - smart keys can still be lost. Dealers will have to order another key, which can be expensive. It can take up to a week for the dealer to process and deliver your new key, which will add to your overall cost.
The good news is that it's not impossible to find a replacement for a BMW key fob. You can purchase BMW remote key fobs and receive them at your home. They are usually cheaper than purchasing them from a dealer and they can save you the hassle of traveling to the dealership to purchase a replacement key. If you want to avoid confusion, have your VIN handy as well as proof of ownership when purchasing a new key.
Another advantage of online BMW key fobs is that they come with a battery. This is important because the battery inside a standard keyfob will eventually degrade and need to be changed. If the battery is damaged, the fob may stop working, which could be dangerous while driving. If you've got your government-issued ID and evidence of ownership, you can obtain an alternative key fob for your BMW with little trouble.
It's always a hassle to lose your keys, but losing the BMW key can be incredibly stressful. You must know your options when replacing the lost BMW Key to ensure that you can select the appropriate one for your particular situation. Make sure you are more cautious in the future when it comes to your keys to your car, so that you don't ever lose them! If you do lose them, make sure to look in your pockets or your car for keys, as well as places you don't typically keep them in.