Door key problems

[Tim010]

Hi, had my 2000 Z3 for a couple of weeks now and all is pretty much great. The car only came with one key which is the infrared key with two buttons which is apparently not common in N.America. My Z is a Japan import so a few little differences to the normal.

I ordered a new basic key from BMW which arrived today. This key works perfectly in the ignition but does not work in the front door lock or trunk.

My original infrared key works in the ignition and the trunk lock but also does not work in the front door key.

I put either key in the front door lock and it goes in nicely and then turns freely 90 degrees either way but doesn’t do anything.

Is this likely a replacement door lock was fitted at some point or a faulty door lock? I’ve seen there are numerous problems with door locks spinning so does what I describe seem like this or is it simply a replacement lock was fitted at some point?

Pic of the car attached as well for your viewing pleasure!

Thanks,

Tim






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[Tim010]

Edited to remove photos of keys

[rasmuw]

It sounds like your actuators door are not working. The problem can often be traced to broken wires at the A pillar. The trunk can have the same problem where the wires enter the trunk from the lid on the left side. I can't explain why your trunk actuator works with your original key but not the replacement.

[sjfuqua]

Your new key looks like a valet key (doesn’t have the slot down the center). Valet key will not open trunk or glovebox.

[Tim010]

Your new key looks like a valet key (doesn’t have the slot down the center). Valet key will not open trunk or glovebox.

Good point, I just went to check and you are correct it is a valet key. Do BMW sell a basic key that is not exorbitantly priced like the fobs are but is not a valet key. I thought I was ordering a regular key but obviously not.

Tim


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[z3forlife]

I’d go back to the dealer and tell them they ordered the wrong key. New ones are around $65-70. When locking from the trunk do the doors lock /unlock ?

[Tim010]

I’d go back to the dealer and tell them they ordered the wrong key. New ones are around $65-70. When locking from the trunk do the doors lock /unlock ?

Yeah the doors lock/unlock when using the key in the trunk.

Dealer should’ve clarified the one I was ordering was a valet key but lesson learned and not a complete waste as I now have a Valet key I may never use!

From what I can see on realoem I have two options for the spare key

51218205441 - Illuminated key
51218205442 - Regular key

Is this correct?

Tim


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[z3forlife]

Yes

[rasmuw]

Does the passenger door work with your keys, or is it just the driver's door?

[Tim010]

Does the passenger door work with your keys, or is it just the driver's door?

There’s no key lock on the passenger door.


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[BladeRunner919]

Could you convert the valet key to a regular one by cutting the centre channel with a dremmel? I assume so, but don't know how accurate the center channel would have to be, or if there are any potential downsides.

Another thought is whether you could get a locksmith to cut a copy of the main key, and then dig the transponder out of the valet key and install it?

[TexaZ3]

Could you convert the valet key to a regular one by cutting the centre channel with a dremmel? I assume so, but don't know how accurate the center channel would have to be, or if there are any potential downsides.

Another thought is whether you could get a locksmith to cut a copy of the main key, and then dig the transponder out of the valet key and install it?

Or you can order the right key.

[jajou318]

I wouldn't post pictures of my keys online.. just saying. And yes order proper key.

[Tim010]

Or you can order the right key.

Just went and ordered the correct key from the dealer - last three 441 for part number so it’s the one with the light. $99 CAD


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