Glad you got in...because it really is difficult to gain access if a BMW is locked.

Knowing this difficulty and how the central locking system works...there are a few rules I ALWAYS follow to avoid this calamity:

1. always UNLOCK the door (I have selective locking activated where the drivers door unlocks first, then the others) even if only needing access to the trunk or cargo area
   • (this act will guarantee you have multiple access if you inadvertently lock your keys in the trunk/cargo area..you'll always be able to re-enter the cargo area because you can still enter the cabin and hit the tailgate release button)
2. never lay the keys down inside the trunk/cargo area...if I need to use both hands, I will place the keys in a pocket or even my mouth if I have to...laying them down will most times get them closed inside the car
3. if I'm in the e38 (which has a trunk lock cylinder) I ALWAYS leave the lock cylinder turned vertical ( | ) which keeps the trunk connected to the central locking system...if you turn the lock horizontal ( -- ) it separates the trunk from the central locking system which means if you lock the keys in the trunk...the only way to retrieve them is with another master key. The interior trunk release button and central lock/unlock button will not open the trunk when it is in VALET mode.