How Do I Program My BMW Key Fob?

 
It only takes a moment to learn how to program a BMW key fob, but once you do, you’ll be able to enjoy the results for years to come. The process varies depending on whether you already have a working BMW key fob in your possession or have just gotten a BMW key fob replacement, but either way, you can get the job done in five easy steps. Here’s how to get started at home in White Plains or Stamford.
 

How to Program an Additional BMW Key

Let’s say that you already have a working BMW key fob, but you’ve just picked up another for a second or third driver in the family. Follow these steps to sync it with your vehicle:

1. Take your working BMW key fob, and gather up the other keys that you’d like to program. Get inside the car, closing all windows and doors.
2. Insert the working key fob into the ignition. Turn it to position one. You should see your dash lights and accessories come on, but the engine should not be running.
3. Turn the key back to position zero, and remove it from the ignition.
4. Using the same key, hold down the unlock button and press the lock button three times fast. (The lock button is the button with the BMW logo.) When you release the unlock button, you’ll hear the doors lock and unlock automatically.
5. Grab the new key that you’d like to program. Perform the same actions, as outlined in step 4. You’ll hear the doors lock and unlock once more, letting you know that your programming has been successful.

Repeat step five for any additional BMW key fob that you’d like to program. If it doesn’t work on the first try, start over from step two with either of your new working keys. Interested in picking up another BMW key fob today? Order your parts online, and we’ll let you know when they arrive.

How to Program a BMW Key from Scratch

Let’s say that you lost or damaged your old BMW key fob, and you don’t have a working key that you can use for step two. After you’ve ordered your new BMW key fob replacement, take the following steps:

1. Take your new BMW key fob, and get into the car with all the windows and doors closed.
2. Insert the key into the ignition. Turn it to position one, and then back to position zero, five times fast. Then, remove the key.
3. Hold that key’s unlock button down, and press the logo/lock button three times fast. Release the unlock button, and you should hear the doors lock and unlock immediately.
4. As in the example above, you can repeat step three for any additional keys that you’d like to program at this time. Just make sure to complete the new key’s programming within 30 seconds of the original key’s successful pairing.
5. Turn on your ignition, and let everything sync up. You should be good to go!

That’s everything you need to know to feel like a genuine BMW key fob programmer. If you’re ready to tackle another task, find out how to update your BMW software at home.

BMW Key Fob Replacement: Battery

Need to replace your BMW key fob battery? The BMW key fob uses a CR2032 battery which can be found in most local hardware stores as well as at our parts department. Once you have your BMW key fob replacement battery, just remove the key fob cover, carefully remove the old BMW key fob battery, and place the new one in gently. You’ll be back on the road in no time.

BMW Key Fob Replacement: Cost

Need a BMW key fob replacement? The best place to go is to the parts department at BMW of Greenwich. How much does a BMW key fob replacement cost? The typical price for a new BMW key fob is between $300 to $410 for the proximity key. Older style BMW key fobs run between $165-$210. Contact our parts department to get current pricing information.

Visit BMW of Greenwich for All Your BMW Key Fob Needs

The instructions written out above should work with any new or late-model BMW. However, in older models and select vehicles, you might need to experiment with a different method. Don’t let it slow you down, because you have the BMW of Greenwich service team in your corner. We’re just a short drive from Bedford or Darien, and we’ve made it easy to schedule a visit. If you have any questions about programming your key fob or how much a BMW key fob replacement costs, give us a call at (866) 411-2458. Or better yet, stop by to see us in person!