Replacement key question

[campbem]

First - apologies if this question is already somewhere in the archives....I've searched and searched and can't find an answer.

Bought my first e39 over the weekend and it only came with 1 key. Are new keys available on the web or do I have to go
to the dealer? I've done a google search briefly and see that there are keys for sale, but I didn't want to trust that they'd
work, so figured I'd ask the experts :)

Thanks for the help
Matt

[Benny771]

Dealer only.... sad but true... They have to be programed. Cost is crazy.

[laharbimmer]

Had to buy one for my e46 and it ran close to $200 for the full featured key. the less expensive one aka "valet key" should be under $100, it will work with doors and ignition only if that is all you need in case of an emergency/spare.

[Qsilver7]

First - apologies if this question is already somewhere in the archives....I've searched and searched and can't find an answer.

Bought my first e39 over the weekend and it only came with 1 key. Are new keys available on the web or do I have to go
to the dealer? I've done a google search briefly and see that there are keys for sale, but I didn't want to trust that they'd
work, so figured I'd ask the experts :)

Thanks for the help
Matt

You didn't say which model year you got...and there are 2 different types of remote keys. But due to EWS (transponder chip inside key)...dealer is probably the easiest place to order them from.

There are a few aftermarket vendors that can make a key for you but they will need your EWS control module, or your DME so that they can retrieve the ISN (individual serial number) that has been burnt into the chip, the rewrite that info into a new chip, then insert it into a key...then have the ability to laser cut a new blank key blade, too.

If you don't need a remote key, then get any of the other spares (I DO NOT RECOMMEND THE VALET KEY). The valet key won't open the trunk, and that is the most common place to lock your key inside the car (happens at least 1-2 times a year on every BMW forum I'm on) since around 1996 (Richard Welty's BMW Digest).

Again, not knowing what model year you have, the early ones can purchase any of the keys below (if they're still available)...the later model years may only be able to get the plastic spare & illuminated key:


http://bimmerboard.com/members/q/original/Illuminated%20Key_Spare%20Key%20Metal%20Blade_%20V alet%20Key.jpg
http://bimmerboard.com/members/q/original/Illuminated%20and%20Spare%20Wallet%20Keys.jpg

Old Style Remote Key: EWS transponder location

http://bimmerboard.com/members/q/original/Transponder%20Chip%20Location%20Inside%20Old%20Sty le%20Key.jpg


New Style Remote Key: EWS transponder location

http://bimmerboard.com/members/q/original/Diamond%20Shaped%20Key%20Diagram%20with%20EWS%20FZ V%20DWA%20explanation%20by%20Bluebee.jpg



http://bimmerboard.com/members/q/original/EWS%202.jpg
http://bimmerboard.com/members/q/original/EWS%20Initial%20Key%20Programming%20From%20Factory .jpg

[crashgordan]

good read. following. have only one key as well for an M roadster

[icefreeze117]

I need a new key since my 530i only came with one key. Called my local dealer and they wanted $230. I have no choice but to buy it... I also asked for a headliner restoration and they wanted about $2200! Freaking dealers man. Over price everything. $230 for a plastic key with a little metal in it.

[djb2]

It's not your only choice. It's merely your only easy choice.

A FleaBay unprogrammed key ($30), AK90+ programmer ($90 new cost, sell for $70) and local locksmith cutting ($20-$30) is an option. It's not trivial to do, but worth it if you would like several keys.