How to Replace Lost BMW Car Keys
by Megan Mattingly-Arthur
German auto manufacturer BMW has been a leading producer of performance and luxury vehicles since the company was founded in 1916. If you've lost the main and spare keys for your BMW, you have no choice but to contact a BMW dealership to order a pricey replacement. BMW's sophisticated locking systems use a computer chip to unlock and start your vehicle. Because of the computer chip technology, you can expect to pay between $50 and $300 to order a replacement key for your BMW.
Step 1
Visit the BMW dealership in your area (See Resources).
Step 2
Provide the dealership with the 17-character vehicle identification number of your BMW. The location of BMW vehicle identification numbers can vary, but are usually located on the door frame, dashboard or steering column.
Step 3
Provide the dealership with identification and proof of vehicle ownership; a valid driver's license, car title and vehicle registration is sufficient.
Step 4
Pay the applicable key replacement fee to have the service manager at your local BMW dealership order a new key for your vehicle.
Step 5
Wait for a call from the BMW dealership notifying you that your replacement key has arrived. Pick up your replacement key from the dealership or ask the dealership service manager to mail it to you.
References
Tips
- BMW will only allow you to order nine replacement keys before they require you to replace the entire engine control unit. Replacing the engine control unit in your BMW can cost $5,000 or more.
Things You'll Need
- Vehicle identification number
- Driver's license
-
- Vehicle registration
Warnings
- Don't bother contacting a locksmith to help you solve your lost key problem. While a locksmith may be able to get you into your vehicle, tampering with the vehicle's sophisticated locking system may permanently damage it.
Writer Bio
Megan Mattingly-Arthur has been writing professionally since 1998. She has contributed to various publications, including "Teen Voices" and "Positive Teens" magazines, as well as a book, "The Young Writer's Guide to Getting Published." Mattingly-Arthur is studying travel and tourism through Penn Foster Career School.
