[GhoS3t]

Does anyone know where to purchase a replacement key at a reasonable price? Dealer keys run $250 - $300 after the purchase, key cut and reprogramming.

As a noob, i'm a little skeptical of the uncut smart key remotes that can be purchased on Ebay for $30-$40. (and I'm guessing the dealer would not be excited about cutting the key and programming it, etc.)

Can someone enlighten me on this subject?

Thank You.

~Greg

[Tljones210]

Originally Posted by GhoS3t

Does anyone know where to purchase a replacement key at a reasonable price? Dealer keys run $250 - $300 after the purchase, key cut and reprogramming.

As a noob, i'm a little skeptical of the uncut smart key remotes that can be purchased on Ebay for $30-$40. (and I'm guessing the dealer would not be excited about cutting the key and programming it, etc.)

Can someone enlighten me on this subject?

Thank You.

~Greg

I have the same question, assuming it has to be replaced and programmed by dealer, but want to make sure before spending $400+.

[XI3]

only have one key right now so im searching too

[williamf]

Wow that is a great question. I average about 1 key per year lost and I get real butt hurt when I have to fork over $300 or $400 for something that really costs maybe $10.

[ssmith96]

I paid about 250 after CCA discount, I was thinking about trying one of those "virginized" keys but im just not sure.

[mxchris727]

No, the key must be new (can not have been programed to a car previously). The new transponder is written by holing the new key into the key slot for 30 seconds. It has read only memory after the first coding.
Comfort access will require the CA module to be reprogrammed in addition to the new key.

250 for a standard key
600 for comfort access keys

[walmark]

Actually, it's more complex than that. From what I know, every car gets 10 chips programmed that can be used with the computer. 2 end up in pair of keys you receive on delivery, 8 stay back on file in Germany. Whenever you order replacement key, one of those chips matched to your vin gets integrated in the new fob. Once you run out of all 10 you need to replace the computer module in the car.

So, no way to use random ebay key. Good news is the new key should work without any additional activation. Unless CA is involved, then it would need extra programming.

[jcut825]

Originally Posted by walmark

Actually, it's more complex than that. From what I know, every car gets 10 chips programmed that can be used with the computer. 2 end up in pair of keys you receive on delivery, 8 stay back on file in Germany. Whenever you order replacement key, one of those chips matched to your vin gets integrated in the new fob. Once you run out of all 10 you need to replace the computer module in the car.

So, no way to use random ebay key. Good news is the new key should work without any additional activation. Unless CA is involved, then it would need extra programming.

I believe the chip is for the cars immobilizer, but im not sure.

[smallseafishie]

Replace EEPROM inside key with a blank one and re-marry to car. Requires a special tool to initiate marrying process.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/BMW-Hit-2-01...item35c8404c25

[luv135i]

If you have CA prepare to really get raped on a new key.