Hi All,

I've bought a late 2001 '51 plate E46 BMW 320D SE.

It's a bit of a dog, but it was the right price and returns very good MPG...

The advice wanted bit is because it only came with one key.

It looks like THIS ONE ON EBAY but obviously I need it to have all the internals so that it works (I assume it's chipped in some way and needs the elec gubbins inside?)

So, what are the most low cost options for getting a second key???

Cheers in advance!

Steve

Mate

Any old place should be able to cut the key. For re-programming here's an option (Not tested, shamelessly nicked from internet land):

X5, E46, E38 & E39 Diamond Shaped Key

To carry out this procedure you need to have one working key and one key which requires programming. Please read on if you do not have a working key as this is also covered further down. It may help sometimes to hold the key close to the rear view mirror as this is where the sensor is located in most models.

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!!

Alternate Procedure:

1. Switch ignition on and off within 5 seconds, with all doors closed.

2. Take key out of ignition and press unlock button. Hold unlock button whilst pressing the lock button 3 times, all within 10 seconds.

3. Release unlock button.

4. The system recognises re-programming by locking and immediately unlocking the doors.

5. You have to do your other keys within 30 seconds after reprogramming your first key by following steps 2,3 & 4 only.

Alternate procedure if above doesn't work or if you do not have a working remote:

1. Turn key to position 1 five times very quickly
2. Remove key
3. Hold unlock button then press lock button 3 times, release unlock button.
4. If you have another key do the same button pressing within 30 seconds
5. Turn on ignition to finalize

You need to talk to an auto-locksmith

Officially
BMW EWS system transponder keys (pear shape) have to come from BMW Germany to match the chassis number however if you want the central locking to work the key's bar code has to be programmed into the cars BCU

Unofficially

Transponder keys can also be cloned -- but then you can't use the original.

However I believe some auto locksmiths have a way round this.

Also not unknown to copy the metal part of the key and tape the original keys transponder under the steering column cowl this of course effectively renders the immobiliser useless..


Interestingly BMW transponder keys have a memory function that stores a copy of the cars mileage.

[Edited on 26/4/10 by britishtrident]

bmw charge £100 for a new key fully working, buy the time you've got a blank off ebay, got it cut, tried to pair it to the ews etc it'll cost more.

Give a dealer your chassis number/reg/v5 and job done.