Programming a new Keyfob without Keyfob Slot

On newer BMWs without the Keyfob slot, you need to program your new key by holding it against the marked spot on the right side of the steering column (key mark) and then start the car. IF YOU CAN NOT GET THE NEW KEY CODED RIGHT AWAY, take the old key out of the car and move it far away from the car. Hold the new key to the same spot until the car recognizes the new inactive coded key. Once recognized then have someone bring the old key to the car and start it.

[mcintosh.motors]

The only thing that worked for me when pairing the new key was putting the skinny side of the key, just the TIP itself, not the side of the key fob, against the column. Worked instantly. Don’t hold it flat against the steering column like shown in the video!

[jimrobinson]

Almost right. One very important step is missing. After you have unlocked the car, before you place the new key fob against the marks, remove the original key a long way from the car or the car will simply start when you press the start/stop button and not program the new key. One other thing, if you have a manual transmission car, place you foot on the clutch not the brake.

[trmbtwo]

Is there a similar procedure for reprogramming a key fob previously assigned to another car (ie not a brand new key fob, but a spare second-hand key fob)?

[sadimuntasir]

2012 BMW 528i without comfort access. New key fob worked on the first try. I unlocked the door lock with the key blade from the new fob as I lost both of my fobs. I held the fob perpendicular on the key logo on steering column, pressed on the brake and then pushed start engine. It started and registered the key without issues.

I got the new key from the dealer with my VIN (you need to submit your copy of your registration & license - if your registration is inside your car and you can't get in, you will have to get a copy from DMV?). I hope this helps others as I was reading conflicting suggestions that you will need an existing key to program the new one, or that the car won't start without an existing key - not true as long as you got the key directly from the dealer, which comes pre-programmed, you just need your car to register the key.

[TheKeyMan]

Does this work on a 2016 X1 to add a key?

[mayramejia]

Hey I picked up a new key fob from bmw since I lost my last one when I got home it isn’t working to turn my car on would this work ? I have a 2009 x5 it’s a push start

[anthonymirolli]

is there a way i can do it without the original key fob? lost it like two days ago and need to go see my mom for mothersday!

[ST-bbgd]

Hi guys, great video but at the end, you fail to mention - do we select IMPORT or EXPORT profile to program the new remote.... Hope you are still in business and get this message... BTW, would this also work on the 2015 model?! Thanks

[derekkchung]

All key lost on a 2014 750LI and I ordered and rec'd a $400+ new key fob + blade. Blade opens and closed driver door.
Under what condition will this new key recognition not work? Battery weak (11.8V)? Some "automotive locksmith" has tempered with the CAS / immobilizer? Car been sitting for too long and some module(s) went to sleep and not waking up? Do I have to get in with a working key first (I don't have one)? Parking is not in neutral (put in neutral to allow towing)? Parking brake release (emergency released)? I checked the battery and transmitter signal, they are good.

[MartinGarcia-pykx]

maybe somebody here can help me.... I have 2013 bmw 328xi a friend who had same car sold his car but had lost one of key fobs when he sold it recently found key fob and I'm thinking of buying it to keep as a spare for mine. will I be able to reprogram that key to work for my car?

[davidking]

So, how I can do the same thing with my bmw smart key?

[baderalahmed]

hi
I tried  the tow ways several times  it did not succeed
Please explain it in detail
What should I do before and after  entry of the vehicle
im waiting for your response as soon as you can
thanx alot

[intercrew]

So I can just buy an f30 (hope that's right...) keyfob and do this? Is there any prep need to be done on the keyfob before doing this? Thanks for replying in advance.

[SteveInGeorgia]

OK I'm calling BS - I tried this repeatedly on my 2014 X3 but this did NOT work. I'm going to take this fob to a dealer to see if they can program it. Has ANYONE had success with this method?

[intercrew]

Sorry but i'm new to this. What is a keyfob slot?

[billbilly]

wait so to program a new bmw fob you dont need a programming tool ? like zed ?

[vwrenn]

Thank you. However, I did not find this to be the case.

[bimmernav]

IF YOU CAN NOT GET THE KEY CODED RIGHT AWAY, take the old key out of the car and move it far away from the car.  Hold the new key to the same spot until the car recognizes the new inactive coded key.  Once recognized then have someone bring the old key to the car and start it.

[ejacksonx]

bullshit! This doesn't work! I just keep getting an error that I need to hold the key to the steering column. The new fob was ordered from the local dealer..with my VIN

[nwohioapa]

Nope, doesn't work. It's a scam just for clicks.