[CyberBear]

Re: 2022 X5 45e

I just bought a replacement key after one of my keys were stolen.

I gave my registration and license and the dealer cut the new key for my VIN.

Is there a way to program it without paying the $220 labor cost at the dealer? All the youtube videos are for older models.

[djohn]

Ya know, I love hacking and DIY. Really do. But the one thing I don't want to be possible for anyone outside of BMW is programming keys.

There has been a spate of car thefts using key spoofing. They have to be careful.

Also, BMW already provide so much flexibility with the Digital Key function, for those who want to use it.

[CyberBear]

You need two keys to do the digital key thing so I just bought the 2nd one but they wanted to charge $220 (bringing it to $700) for the programming.

Thought it was worth a shot to ask.

[djohn]

I didn't know you had to have both! That certainly is aggravating.

[Qsilver7]

Question? Would the remote fob you just purchased be the 3rd fob that is replacing the original two you received?

If yes, then you may have a misconception as to what the "programming" entails. If you purchased a replacement remote from BMW based on your VIN...it will come already with the correct 128-bit encryption that was assigned to your BMW (based on its VIN)...and the encryption already matches the modules in your car that require the fob to start the vehicle.

"Programming" in this case would be to disable/deactivate the lost remote fob so that it will no longer start and lock/unlock your BMW. If you have no issue about the "lost" remote...then you can forgo the costly "programming" and just initate the new remote yourself...right in the parking lot if you desire.

To initate a new remote that has the correct 128-bit encryption based on your VIN...simply REMOVE any other working remote from the vehicle’s proximity (so that it is not communicating with the aerials). Then simply hold the new/replacement remote next to the icon on the right side of the steering column, press on the BRAKE PEDAL, then PRESS the START button.

This should start the vehicle and the new/replacement remote has been "initialized" and should work like the remote you lost.

Again, the programming the dealership is offering is to REMOVE/DEACTIVATE/DEPROGRAM the lost/stolen remote so that it doesn't communicate with your BMW anymore. If you have no fear of anyone finding your lost remote and then correlating it to your BMW then making a beeline to it to steal it...then not having the "programming" performed shouldn't be an issue. BUT...if you fear or will be fretting that the lost remote is going to turn up with someone in your circle of friends/family/acquaintences/enemies...then have the dealership program (deactivate) the lost remote.

[nZtiZia]

I was worried about exactly that… the stolen fob still has access to his vehicle. it’s like a stolen credit card that needs to be deactivated. OTW, folks can still use it!

[CyberBear]

The key was stolen across the country with no way to know (unless they know someone at BMW) where the car is. I also park inside a closed garage every night.

But Qsilver7 was correct. No need to pay the fee, I programmed it myself to the car..took all of 10 seconds. I even got the digital key to work on my phone.

My advisor told me it would only work to open the doors and nothing digital without paying.

Bottom line: Don't pay for the programming because it does really come preprogrammed for your specific car. I save $220 for a 10 second job.

[Qsilver7]

...thanks for the update and resolution. Glad to hear that it worked out for you (for less money).