X5 Key Fix/Replacement Options

[e30mpower]

Also, if you do end up at the dealer, make sure to tell them you want an ADDITIONAL key, not a replacement - otherwise all other keys are deactivated by EWS and become useless.

[ScottJ]

Originally Posted by e30mpower

Also, if you do end up at the dealer, make sure to tell them you want an ADDITIONAL key, not a replacement - otherwise all other keys are deactivated by EWS and become useless.

Wow, thanks for the heads up!

[Deansbimmer]

I have another dealer alternative... United Auto Security. I used them for my M3 alarm, but their locksmith service is excellent too. They have full EWS support.

For my 2003 X5, I just recently purchased two extra Master Keys for $198 including Overnight shipping both ways. I mail them my key and the EWS module, and they do their thing and send it all back. Takes about three days from start to finish. I plugged in my EWS and the car started right away. About 3-5 minutes later I had programmed both keys for my factory alarm and keyless. Full factory functions again.

I was weary of the dealer option as I wasn't 100% positive that the previous owners hadn't swapped lock cylinders, so I felt I needed to find an alternative that replicated my existing (and only) key. I'm glad I did.

It's worth noting that I received OEM BMW key blades and housings. The key guts were aftermarket but it works great. And my M3 system has been going strong for several years now. Hope this helps somebody.

[e30mpower]

Originally Posted by Deansbimmer

I mail them my key and the EWS module, and they do their thing and send it all back. Takes about three days from start to finish. I plugged in my EWS and the car started right away. About 3-5 minutes later I had programmed both keys for my factory alarm and keyless. Full factory functions again.

I'd hesitate to do that. Just spend the $300 at the dealer and get the right key, without the possibility of frying EWS. Call me cautious........

[Deansbimmer]

Originally Posted by e30mpower

I'd hesitate to do that. Just spend the $300 at the dealer and get the right key, without the possibility of frying EWS. Call me cautious........

I've done it three times now for my cars and I've referred a couple others. I'd be more concerned with USPS losing my parcel than these guys "fyring" my EWS. All they're doing is adding new key codes to the EWS. Kinda hard to damage it. Additionally- the dealer will only give you another key exactly like the one originally supplied. The problem is that these cars are getting old and may have had new locks or DME's installed by previous owners- which was the case for me. That rules out the dealer option.

Instead of spending $600 + for two keys I spent 200. It was a no brainer, even though I sent off my only key.

[e30mpower]

Keep in mind dude man only has one key, sending out the EWS module and requisite keys takes $200 and keys, leaving the X stranded for days. Just fax the dealer some paperwork or call your SA, and you'll have a new key in 2 days.

[Deansbimmer]

Originally Posted by e30mpower

Keep in mind dude man only has one key, sending out the EWS module and requisite keys takes $200 and keys, leaving the X stranded for days. Just fax the dealer some paperwork or call your SA, and you'll have a new key in 2 days.

I sent off my only key too... I'm just posting up a solid alternative. People can make their own decisions on what to do.

[e30mpower]

Originally Posted by Deansbimmer

I sent off my only key too... I'm just posting up a solid alternative. People can make their own decisions on what to do.

True -- I like your attitude. "Live and let live"

[Ricky Bobby]

I'll second Deansbimmer's recommendation although I didn't end up using them. I got a smokin deal from my local dealer on a master key, about $130 + tax.

UAS was around $200 including shipping for 2, I ended up with the dealer just for convenience but I wouldn't hesitate to use them. And btw, if you want, they also sell a very nice high quality flip key option (very convenient for in pocket storage) for about $30 more I think.

[admranger]

Try these steps and let us know how it worked out.


1. With both keys, get in the car and close all windows and doors.

2. Put working key into the ignition and turn to position 1 (the accessories should turn on)

3. Turn the key back to position 0 and take the key out of the ignition.

4. Using the working key, hold down the unlock button, press the BMW logo (lock button) 3 times, and release the unlock button. Doors should lock and unlock.

5. With the new key, hold down the unlock button and press the BMW logo (lock button) 3 times and let go of the unlock button. Doors should lock and unlock and you're done!!