Aftermarket keyless entry?

[dansgt]

so my wife lost the key to the 7 last week. weve torn apart the house, no where. i really dont wanna spend 200 on one key, but they can get you a standard key cut for 30. i have an old alarm/keyless entry system i used on my e34 sitting around, any way i can wire that up and use it? the factory keyless range sucked ass anyways, had to be right on top of the car where the module is to use it, this system works better so for less money id rather have 2 keys. anyone got any info? im likely gonna get the standard key regardless just to get the car going again...

[AquilaBMW]

Does your car have EWS II? If so, I thought the key had a transponder in it and the car won't start without that. If EWS II, will an aftermarket system work?

[01740ISP]

I say get 1 standard key and one used remote key to start with. The used remote key cannot start the car tough but should be able to open the door if programmed. Someone correct me if I am wrong. Only thing I am not sure about is do you need a working remote key to program the car? or can the standard key be used to initiate the programming sequence of the used remote key?

It all seems like a hassle to me. If it were me, I would get one new remote key plus two standard keys. I am sure you will find the original key once you buy the new one. :-)

-Messan

[Qsilver7]

The e34 & e38 have completely different BUS systems. And the DWA FZV (anti-theft alarm & keyless entry) systems are completely different.

From the BMW WDS:

The RF (radio frequency) remote control for the e38 is integrated in the general module of the ZKE.
The antenna used for this system is the radio antenna integrated in the rear window.
The radio signals are isolated in an antenna stop filter.
The stop filter transmits the signals from the key transmitter via a data link to the general module.
All radio telegrams are coded and feature a constantly changing code so as to prevent manipulation and thus unauthorized opening of the vehicle.
The data sent by the key transmitter are received by the receiver module via a radio/TV antenna. An antenna stop filter (rejector circuit) isolates these radio waves from other received radio waves and transmits them via a line to the general module of the ZKE.
The radio signals are checked and evaluated in the general module. Valid instructions are carried out (e.g. release central locking system and disarm DWA).



http://www.bimmerboard.com/members/q/original/Remote%20Control%20Keyless%20Entry%20System%201.jp g
http://www.bimmerboard.com/members/q/original/Remote%20Control%20Keyless%20Entry%20System%202.jp g

BTW...you may be able to get your local BMW dealerships's parts dept to price match one of their other dealerships. For example, in the info below...you can see what BMW Silver Spring (formally Tischer BMW) charges for the various keys. You can get the remote, illuminated master, spare (w/metal blade), wallet spare (all plastic), or the valet key. I would highly recommend NOT to purchase the valet key for your spare/back-up/emergency key because it can't open the trunk or glove box. And the trunk is one of the places most often the key gets locked up.


http://www.bimmerboard.com/members/q/original/BMW%20Keys%20Part%20Nbrs%20Prices%20&%20Descriptions.jpg

http://www.bimmerboard.com/members/q/original/Illuminated%20and%20Spare%20Wallet%20Keys.jpg

(ignore the 3 button remote fobs (e34 type)...but all of the keys are EWS keys and can be purchased for the e38)
http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/7/web/739000-739999/739005_128_full.jpg

[BMWObsession]

If all you desire is a key fob, why not grab a cheap used key and program the remote functions to your car? You could cut the blade off and it would be the equivalent of a remote.

To clarify, you can use any model year E38 key (or pretty much any 95-02 BMW key) and program the remote to your car. I programmed the key from my first 1995 740i to my latest 2000 740i with no issues. Obviously the key won't turn any of the locks, but the remote works.

Here is one I found after a quick ebay search. http://www.ebay.com/itm/BMW-REMOTE-KEY-FOB-KEYLESS-ENTRY-LX8-FZV-97-01-/320880971934?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&vxp=mtr&hash=item4ab5ff109e#ht_1771wt_1304 I'd recommend a older style remote like this one since the newer keys have rechargeable batteries that will eventually die on you (they charge in the ignition)


I say get 1 standard key and one used remote key to start with. The used remote key cannot start the car tough but should be able to open the door if programmed. Someone correct me if I am wrong. Only thing I am not sure about is do you need a working remote key to program the car? or can the standard key be used to initiate the programming sequence of the used remote key?

I think we are talking the same language. The standard key can be used to start the programming sequence.

[dansgt]

Let me clarify, I'm talking about a universal keyless entry that you wire in, not a BMW one. I may grab a use key like that(thanks, I didn't actually see any when I searched), but the range sucked and the last couple weeks it didn't work at all. Can I wire in a universal system like that? For 2 keys then were talking $60, and If she looses another key, I'm still able to use the car.

I just ordered the standar key for now, came out to 25, I'll figure out what to do from here but at least I'll have a key tomorrow and the car will be driveable again lol

[Grantnz]

Try asking a question here: http://pub9.bravenet.com/forum/static/show.php?usernum=704581859&frmid=58&cmd=show&cp=1

He knows his stuff.