BMW Key Replacement Houston Texas

15-09-2019 - Have you lost or broken the keys to your BMW? Do you wish to duplicate keyfob, laser cut or transponder key? Gazing for a convenience and economical replacement keys service?

No worries

Okey DoKey Locksmith offer 24/7 fast and affordable BMW replacement key. Call for immediate assistance, free estimate and scheduling. Our expert mobile car locksmith come to you to duplicate or replace your lost keys on-site.

Furthermore, we can solve all your BMW key, ignition and locks problems.

Does BMW use transponder keys?

In January 1, 1995 BMW started using an encrypted transponder keys on all it's models. One exception was with a few 3 Series which followed shortly.

The OEM BMW transponder is a laser cut key and consist of a dimond shaped remote clicker.

Since 2004 few models start using a proximity fobs (Comfort Access) as either standard or optional equipment. The keyless entry device contain a transponder chip that works with a battery.

What is a BMW transponder key used for?

BMW transponder keys mainly used as a vehicle anti-theft technology. Together with the immobilizer, transponders helps protecting your BMW from unauthorized access.

The immobilizer initialized to recognize each key by a programmable code. When a key with unmatched code turned in the ignition, the vehicle becomes immobilized. The fuel-pump will shut down and will not start for a few minutes.

How does BMW immobilizer works?

BMW transponders uses the "rolling code" system to change value each time the key is used. If an unauthorized personal will try copying the key data, it will be invalid the next time the key used.

Each immobilization system programmed with 10 unique chips upon manufacturing of the vehicle. 2-3 keys are provided when a new car is purchased, and each additional keys ordered through a dealer or a licensed locksmith. When reaching the 10 keys limit, the EWS unit is replaced and align to accept 10 new keys. This process could cost $1k-$3k to do.

Can I program a duplicate BMW transponder key myself?

BMW offer no on-board interface to duplicate keys by yourself. Each key need to be programmed by the dealer or a licensed locksmith using dedicated programmers. Each additional key approved by BMW using the VIN before it can start the car.

What is a BMW valet key?

Each new immobilized vehicle also provide a valet key. The valet key has a grey plastic head and doesn't allow access to the glove box or trunk. A valet key cannot be duplicated and designed to be used for emergencies.

How do I know if I have a transponder key?

Following are the list of BMW models that use transponders:

• BMW Z4 1995+
• BMW 528i 1995+
• BMW M3 1995+
• BMW 335i
• BMW M5 1995+
• BMW M6 1995+
• BMW 535i 1995+
• BMW 760i 1995+
• BMW 740i 1995+
• BMW 7 Series 1995+
• BMW 6 Series 1995+
• BMW 525i 1995+
• BMW 530i 1995+
• BMW 550i 1995+
• BMW 3 Series
• BMW X3 1995+
• BMW 328i
• BMW 750i 1995+
• BMW X6 1995+
• BMW X5 1995+
• BMW Z3 1995+
• BMW 650i 1995+
• BMW 5 Series 1995+
• BMW 750Li 1995+

How to duplicate BMW keys and remotes?

The procedure for getting a duplicate BMW key done by a local dealer or a car locksmith. You can duplicate the key by VIN or by a cloning process:

Duplicate BMW key by VIN

To duplicate a key the dealer will need the VIN and a proof of ownership which is registration or title and a match driver license. The vehicle does not need to be at the dealership.

Prices vary slightly from dealership to dealership, so you better call more than one dealer for the best price. Call the dealer and provide them your VIN to get a quote.

If you are not the owner of the BMW, you will need a signed power of attorney from the owner.

BMW key cloning

BMW key cloning is a job that very few locksmith can perform. The newer your BMW is, the harder it's going to be to find a locksmith who can clone your key.

A locksmith with BMW key programmer and diagnosis tool can create cloned key using 2 methods:

1. Vehicle OBD port - read the key data from the vehicle and copy to a new blank
2. Reading the key - scan the key to get it's data and copy it to a new blank

Can I program BMW key FOB myself?

Sometimes after changing the battery on the key or vehicle, your remote can stop locking/unlocking the doors. The key will still be functional to manually unlock the door and start the engine, but only the FOB lost it sync.

BMW offers an onboard procedure to re-program the remote. This method works on many BMWs, including 3 5 7 Series 325i E38 E39, E39, E46, E90, E38, Z3, Z4, X3, X5 and M5. Follow the following steps to reprogram your remote:

Enter programming mode 1st method

1. Enter the vehicle and close all the doors.
2. Turn the key to position I and see some of the instrument cluster lights turn on the dash.
3. After five seconds remove the key from the ignition.

Enter programming mode 2nd method

1. Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to position I five times within five seconds.
2. Remove the key from the ignition.

Reprogram the remote

1. Press the unlock button on the remote fob and hold it pressed down.
2. While holding the unlock button, press the lock button three times.
3. Release all the buttons.

Lost/stolen key replacement! What to do?

When you lose all your keys to a BMW the process is very similar to a key duplication. Reprogramming interface and tools are available only to the BMW dealer or to a licensed locksmith. The vehicle computer is reprogrammed to accept a new key from the list of 10 initial keys and reject the lost keys.

While some people complain about the limit of 10 keys for each EWS unit, the rolling code offer a great advantage. Since the 10 keys codes are already programmed, the dealer or a mobile locksmith don't need the car present to make a key.

Just like key duplication service, all they need to cut and program a new key is the VIN and a proof of ownership.

My BMW ignition key wont turn! What to do?

There are many reasons for ignition problems! Please check our article about ignition repair and replacement.

How long does it takes to make a key?

Our emergency mobile car lock smith are on hand 24 hour 7 day a week 365 days a year. Ready to handle all your BMW ignition and locks headaches. We usually arrive at customer location fast.

Our service van is comprehensively arrayed with latest programming, diagnostic and cutting tools able to restore keys onsite. A key replacement process for a vehicle usually done same day.

We feel self-worth in offering a reasonable price price and reliable services. Give us a call at for a FREE ESTIMATE and our BMW expert will arrive to your place ASAP. Okey DoKey Locksmith is always here to meet your needs in a professional way.

References

1. BMW.com
2. wikipedia - Comfort Access or Display Key
3. bimmerpost - The largest online community dedicated to all things BMW.
4. edmunds - American online resource for automotive information.

Related articles/services

1. Car key replacement
2. Ignition repair
3. Car lockout