BMW keys — what you should know
BMW key programming goes through the vehicle's central security module, and which module depends on the generation. We cover a wide range of BMW model years including all-keys-lost on many. Some recent vehicles restrict access to dealers, and rather than taking the booking and discovering it on site, we confirm from the VIN before dispatching.
The key system on a BMW
| Keyway | HU92 on older vehicles, HU100R on newer |
|---|---|
| Immobiliser | Programming goes through the central security module — CAS, FEM or BDC depending on generation |
| Models covered | 3 Series, X3, X5, 5 Series, X1, 4 Series, i4, X7, and the rest of the range |
A model not listed is not a problem — give us the year and we will confirm before dispatching.
BMW keys — questions
Can you make a BMW key if I have lost all of them?
For most BMW models and years, yes, and at the vehicle rather than at a dealership. HU92 on older vehicles, HU100R on newer — we cut from code obtained through authorised channels or by decoding the lock directly, then program to the immobiliser on site. Programming goes through the central security module — CAS, FEM or BDC depending on generation. We verify ownership before any of it, every time.
What kind of key does a BMW use?
HU92 on older vehicles, HU100R on newer. Programming goes through the central security module — CAS, FEM or BDC depending on generation. This matters because cutting alone is never enough on a modern vehicle — a key cut without programming works the lock and turns the ignition, and the engine cranks and does not start. Give us the year and model and we will tell you exactly which key your car takes before coming out.
How much is a BMW key, and how long does it take?
Price follows the key type, not the badge — a transponder key is at the low end, a remote head key in the middle, a proximity smart key at the top because the blank itself is expensive. A spare with a working key present is usually thirty to sixty minutes on site. All-keys-lost takes longer, and several makes impose a manufacturer security wait of ten to sixty minutes during programming that nothing can shorten.