Has anyone gotten a "flip style" key off Ebay?

[kevinkay]

There are some choices-

buy a key with a virgin chip - get the key cut, transponder programed, and program the remote

buy a hollow case, cut open your old key, reuse the chip and get the blank cut

curious if anyone has done either, what the costs and issues with getting the chip programed and finding a lock smith to cut the blank.

One Ebay description mentions a brass blank because locksmith don't want to dull there machines cutting a steel blank?

[Ricky Bobby]

I'll be honest, sounds like way more trouble than its worth.

[Qsilver7]

Something of this nature is mostly cosmetic...thus it's really up to the individual as to how much it's worth to get it to work correctly.

But if the key in the video is what you're after...take note of the end result for this owner...learn from them what did & didn't work...then determine if its worth your time and effort for something that's basically a novelty.

BMW e39 Folding Flip Key Case Shell Refit - YouTube

[kevinkay]

Yes, I agree, lots of trouble, but if you need a new key anyway....

[itscoo2pyopants]

Originally Posted by Ricky Bobby

I'll be honest, sounds like way more trouble than its worth.

if i were you i would just order another one through BMW. you will just need to prove ownership and they will send you a key already programmed.