Whilst researching the problem I came across an article in a "Brit" online vehicle blog where the author was reporting a new free security upgrade offered by BMW for all 2007 and newer vehicles. The upgrade was to combat the growing problem of cloning a key via the OBD port at the side of the road and driving the vehicle away to destinations far east of where it was stolen.
Writer had returned to his vehicle to find it open and dead. Clone attempt had been made that bricked this vehicle also. It was transported to local dealer and a new CAS/keys/lock had to be fitted to restore normal operation.
At this point I/we will be happy if it is only the CAS and a quick reprogram of the existing key plus linking the new key purchased from the dealer. The proximate causee of the event has ceased communication and gives every sign of evading financial responsibility.

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2021 X5 xDrive40i
2015 X5 xDrive35i MSport
(Traded) 2013 X5 xDrive35i