If you bought a BMW key from a third party or salvage company and lost it, you will need to find another replacement. Different models of BMW automobiles have different requirements. Some allow you to buy a key from a third party, while others must be purchased directly from BMW themselves. Programming the key is another hurdle as the key won’t work until it is synced up with your individual car. Depending on your model, you can find a replacement key through a BMW dealership or even a third party seller.
Call the BMW customer service line at (800) 831-1117. Tell them the model and year of your BMW and request a quote for the price for a replacement key. The price usually ranges from a couple hundred to several hundred dollars for the key and programming. You will need details about your car to prove ownership, so have the VIN number and title ready when speaking with a representative.
Go online and search for a BMW dealership or else call for information about one nearest to you. You can take your car in and have them cut a new key and program it for you, and the cost will be similar to ordering a key from the BMW service center. Be sure to ask about the number of keys offered in the deal and verify that the programming cost is included in the total price.
Search online for a replacement key from a third party seller. While buying a replacement key outside of BMW can be much cheaper, you must verify that you can program the key yourself and that instructions are included with the key. If you purchase a key from a non-authorized BMW supplier and cannot program it yourself, you will have to take the vehicle into a BMW dealership and pay their programming fee.
