Replacement Key; Online dealer

[andrewwynn]

didn't show up for me just crazy glad it did for you; order is in and i basically got the valet key for free; the order for both keys and shipping was almost exactly the cost of dealer for just the main key.

Now i just get to find out if my antenna still works on my car haven't used the remote in 2 years.

[RocketyMan]

Originally Posted by andrewwynn

Since XO's search function is nearly useless (can't use 'and' in a search, can't serach for words less that four letters), you can not find a post with the word 'key' so 'replacement key' will return any post with the word replacement.

NOT HELPFUL.

Anyhow a few months ago somebody posted a link to a legit online dealer that will sell you a key for $40-60 less than a local dealer and i want to find that dealer and buy a key, just wasted over an hour searching and not having any luck.

Hopefully somebody will see this and remember what thread had that post (most likely the 'catch all' thread).

I completely feel you on this search feature of the forum. I really wish this forum would get updated. There are other forums I'm a part of, and XO seems rather....archaic. -_-

[RocketyMan]

https://www.thebmwminipartstore.com/...8gUGFnZQ%3D%3D

On this site, I'm trying to figure out if this just simply mimics a spare key, or is the RFID a unique one? The programming the remote access is not a problem for me, but I want to know about the EWS pairing? Is this something that comes pre-cut and programmed via the VIN to the EWS so I can simply stick in the ignition and turn the vehicle on?

It states: "All keys require BMW Professional Programming/Pairing." So does that I mean once I order this key, I have to take it to a dealer to program it to the EWS?

I'm confused....

Also, is this the LEGIT BMW diamond key that has the rechargeable battery? Not the cheap ebay replacement, ya?

[Overboost]

Those are the factory keys. You have to send your ID and registration to order from them. It will have the correct RFID programming by the VIN on your registration. What you have to program is the remote lock/unlock.

[andrewwynn]

Originally Posted by Overboost

https://www.thebmwminipartstore.com/...VkIFByb2R1Y3Rz

minor oops; that one is the plastic wallet key.

https://www.thebmwminipartstore.com/...43-51218236594

That's the correct part for the metal valet key (no remote).

https://www.thebmwminipartstore.com/...bC1sNi1nYXM%3D

That's the normal diamond key.

https://www.thebmwminipartstore.com/...ey-51218374931

That's the illuminated key.

[RocketyMan]

Originally Posted by Overboost

Those are the factory keys. You have to send your ID and registration to order from them. It will have the correct RFID programming by the VIN on your registration. What you have to program is the remote lock/unlock.

Noway! So when looking at the EWS, I think there are like what...8 unique keys you can program or something? I know locksmith's will "mirror" a key--which is not what I want.

I'm half tempted to pull the trigger on this since I only have one key with a dead FOB.

This is exciting!

[andrewwynn]

the EWS/DME are pre-programed with TEN keys from the factory. about 3-4 are used on delivery of a new car, it's rare that more than 5 or 6 are ever used; you can confirm with most better scanners.

I am in the same boat (one key with bad solder joints no remote); just need one more solder joint to break and won't work in the ignition.

this site has been used for years from xo members, it's def. legit; also they have been very prompt with feedback today while i've been ordering my two keys (valet and master).

-awr

[RocketyMan]

Andrew...do you know more about the "illuminated key?" Is this just a little LED that lights up when the buttons are pressed? I can't find any pictures with this. All I come up with is something like the E39 where it's like a flashlight. Not sure how useful this is. I would bet the diamond key is the most useful.

[andrewwynn]

It is like you suspect. A little flashlight that lights up where you put the key when you squeeze it. I would not get it. The quality looks rinky-dink compared to the diamond key.

[wpoll]

Originally Posted by andrewwynn

It is like you suspect. A little flashlight that lights up where you put the key when you squeeze it. I would not get it. The quality looks rinky-dink compared to the diamond key.

I have one of these illuminated keys - and it's quality kit (see pic below).

But it's rather useless, since it has no remote functions. I have not used it in over six years of ownership...