The post was re: the 3rd party keys/3rd party circuit board, etc.

I can't speak for all E53(pre/post facelift), but mine came with 4 keys. 2 Master Remotes, 1 Valet and 1 Non Remote...

AFAIK, out of all the options listed, the OE key *brand new*, non repaired, is the only key that will still be ~waterproof/water resistent~ as it's plastic welded...

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Every situation is different on when you will need key repair/or why so here's mine to close this thread

EVERY option other than OE will not net you a key that is *welded* encased

I went with GM5 key repair. Figured $100 for 2 working REMOTE keys seemed like a good ROI given the running time I plan to have the car . I know that since the key has to be opened, I will be losing it's OE weather effectiveness....when the car is sold, I will have 2 master remotes to give to the buyer, in addition to the plastic valet and metal non remote key.


IF I did not go through this route, the OE key is the way to go IMO.

The last options are the 3rd party key guys. There is some value in here as it's slightly cheaper, and you CAN get cut keys programmed to your EWS in the newer flip housing as a option.

But cheaper is not necessarily better in respect that
- not as water proof/water resistant as OE key
- slight latency in trunk release operations as as stated, the OE roundel emblem will not fit proper on these keys. So you stuck with a 3rd party roundel that doesn't really last as long as the OE
- Unknown longevity of the circuit boards on these keys. MY OEM keys has lasted 12-13 years with NO issues