Keys and key fob...
 

Maybe this has been addressed before, but I couldn't find it using "search", but then again I didn't have a good keyword to seach on either...

Here's the question, and maybe it's a stupid one?

Our 2001 X5 has two igintion keys, both of which have 3-button remotes on the head of the key. My wife (with her small hands) complains about using the key in the ignition. Said it's "not comfortable" to use.

She's wanting just a plain key with a smaller head that goes in the ignition, with a separate fob to lock and unlock the doors. Do they make "just keys and fobs"? If no separate fobs are made, do they make "just keys", so she can use the remote off her current key, but put a smaller key in the ignition?

I told her to just suck it up...

I just bought a new key. I was told they have three key options. One is the valet key, the other was a key with no buttons I think (I was unimpressed with it so I immediately forgot what it was), and then the third is the key with the fob attached.

No plain fob. You can get a key with no remote function, as noted above, but you would still need the fob for remote opening/closing.

Tell her to suck it up. Nicely.

Hmmmm. So it's "possible" to have two keys, one with remote, one without, in her purse with her. She'd unlock it with the current key, and then drive it with the other.

I assume then every week or two she'd need to drive it with the remote key so that the battery would recharge?

Sounds like a pain in the arse to me...
Yeah, that sounds like the most reasonable solution.

Totally possible, but somewhat illogical. The valet key is number 3, no remote, but works fine in doors and ignition. Doesn't work in glovebox. It would be easier for her to use in the ignition, given her smaller hands.

But unless she wants to give up remote lock/unlock, she would still be carrying key number 1. She wouldn't need to drive with key 1 every week, my keys were good for two years without use. I try to remember to use the spare once a year, but usually forget.