How does the ignition read the coded chip if it is impregnated in plastic (no electrical contact whatsoever)?

There must be a way for it to "contact" without an actual physical/eletrical contact, sort of like how an electronic door lock on a building can be activate by waving a plastic card key next to it without any sort of physical/electrical contact. It does require that the key and the receiver be close enough though. The very close proximity of the plastic key and the ignition must be close enough. I'm not an engineer; just an educated guesser.

In any event, it has to be something like this because the X5 should not start without a chip in the black plastic key otherwise what's the point of having a chip in any of the keys? :dunno:

door cards are magnetic so that is definitely not the technology.

Beckham was probably driving a BMW High Security X5 armored vehicle.

I have no idea if it comes with some type of passive remote entry/start system, but it makes sense in a vehicle modified for security. Who wants to be fumbling around with a key to start up a vehicle when the bad guys are coming after you?

Do the "smart keys" and "comfort access" systems use the same 40 bit rolling security codes used in your garden variety remote entry systems and garage door openers?

My understanding was that it was impossible for a normal PC to generate 40 bit security codes and that it would take something more like a Cray super computer. BTW - if they didn't build enough security into the newer system, then shame on them.

RFID

Well that is the sacrafice you make for being above and beyond lazy IMO. Is it really so difficult to hit an unlock button or insert a key in a door/ignition? That the same type of thing you worry about if you have a remote start system.

The small plastic valet key has a chip inside? Why? I carry our plastic 325ci key with me all the time--and have carried it while in the surf--is it not waterproof?

All I must say Is (Living here at the US/Mexico) Border, that if my X5 gets stolen I JUST don't want it Back!

It might be on the other side of the border before you can call it in.

I should take my black key and x-ray it. I think I'll do it next week.