Question For AutoBrag: Replacing A Stolen 2008 BMW Key
Question From Robert: wife had purse stolen. Dealer wants 2200 dollars for 1 new key with locks changed or 160 dollars for a new key only. Car would still open with the stolen key but won’t start. Is there any other way to get the car fully re-keyed?
Queen of the Road: Hi Robert. Sorry to hear about that. Be sure to cancel all credit cards. Have you filed a report with police yet? Get a copy in case your bank, credit card company or insurance company needs proof of the crime. Report your missing driver’s license to the department of motor vehicles.
Ask the bank to put a “fraud alert” on your account and add a “victim’s statement” to your file requesting that creditors contact you before opening new accounts in your name.
Back to the question… We called Cunningham BMW and asked to make one key. Apparently, a key and the service to program will cost $211 after tax. If they just get a new key made, the old stolen key wont star the car but will open it. So that is a dangerous option since the thief may have your address.
To get a new set of locks with a new key, the average cost is $1,046 on parts, plus labor. The mechanic told us that it should take apporximately 6 hours of labor with $120/ hour. That comes out to an estimated $1,766. That’s still less than $2,200. Perhaps you should call several BMW service departments and see which is the least expensive.
Unfortunately, those are the only choices she has. I wish it was as simple as hiring a locksmith but because its a new car with that special chip, it has to be programmed only from BMW. Goodluck with everything and let us know if you have any further questions. We’ll be happy to help!
Follow Up Comment: Thanks a bunch. Good info and advice
