Lost every BMW key?
With every key to an E-series BMW gone, the job still ends at the car. The EWS or CAS module is read, sometimes after it comes out from under the dash, a new key is written to it, and the missing keys are disabled at no charge. The $349 key price rises by $60 for this. Keep the registration or title handy along with an ID bearing the same name.
F-series cars with no key take the longest. The FEM or CAS4 module usually comes out for a bench reading, and the engine computer's security code has to match before the new key will start the car. The same $60 applies. On G-series cars with no key, the dealer route is usually the realistic one, and you hear that before paying anyone.
What the dealer charges, and why
A BMW dealer orders the key from BMW against your VIN, and it arrives already coded to the car. The service department then syncs it using BMW's diagnostic system. Typical quotes run about $650 for the older remote key and $750 for a smart key, with a tow on top if nothing starts the car.
Our visit replaces the order, the typical 1 to 3 day wait and the $125 to $200 tow with one appointment at the car, be it in a UTC parking garage or a Poway driveway.
Two things we say on the phone first
Two limits you hear from us before any quote. G-series cars often need a dealer-ordered key, including the 2016 and newer 7 Series, 2017 and newer 5 Series and 2018 and newer X3, even though their model years look like they fit the smart key price. That comes up on the call, before any appointment goes on the calendar.
A used BMW key from an online seller has usually been locked to its first car, and most will not move to another car. Check the listing with us before you buy anything.