Replacing the EWS and what else ???

[jc1kz]

Hey guys,

If I replace the EWS do I have to replace the ECU also? or can I just replace the EWS and keys/ignition....Long story short the e46 got stolen this past weekend, and I just got it back today....I had a tracker put on it as soon as I got it, a two dollar Chinese devise, cops found it right away, but took them several days to release it to me. Now I have a broken window, a jacked up ignition, damaged to the right front hood/headlight/fender/door and suspension...the rest looks good, I think. It drives and all, but I would really feel better if I replaced the key and EWS...I can re-key the trunk and the door no problem....so what else do I need to do?

[dworthy]

Is there something wrong with the EWS? If you have to replace the locks, BMW does offer a complete set: 51210031342/51210303363 This depends on the freq that your current key uses, and it comes with all the locks, EWS, 2 Master and 1 dealership key. You will need to get the EWS aligned with the DME of course, but you will get the new keys from BMW like now.

Now if the ignition switch area is really messed up, then you will also need to replace the lock housing and the 2 shear bolts. I would also replace the ignition switch as well for it is a known part to fail after 15 years.

[TerraPhantm]

Is there something wrong with the EWS? If you have to replace the locks, BMW does offer a complete set: 51210031342/51210303363 This depends on the freq that your current key uses, and it comes with all the locks, EWS, 2 Master and 1 dealership key. You will need to get the EWS aligned with the DME of course, but you will get the new keys from BMW like now.

Now if the ignition switch area is really messed up, then you will also need to replace the lock housing and the 2 shear bolts. I would also replace the ignition switch as well for it is a known part to fail after 15 years.

For what it's worth, all US cars use the 315 MHz keys.

[legoman67]

the EWS module is hidden under the dash far away from the ignition, and likely is fine. All you need is a new antenna ring(the black ring that goes around the ignition to read the key) ,a new ignition cylinder(you can order it by vin from dealer to match your keys), Possibly a steering column if the damage is really bad(can be bought used).