Key

Only a good quality locksmith or bmw dealer will be able to cut and code a new key.
Stephen.
 
Its not so much the key if you had a blank any decent key cutter could copy your current one.
The issue is the coding within the key to work the factory installed rolling code immobiliser system no point in having a key that only opens the locks but won't start car .
Probably into couple of hundred pounds easily to obtain a proper working replacement key I'm afraid.
Stephen.
 
coding within the key to work the factory installed rolling code immobiliser system
What year is your Z3? Don't think my 1997 car has such immobiliser system, but might be wrong.
 
What year is your Z3? Don't think my 1997 car has such immobiliser system, but might be wrong.
Chip is inside the key
All 3 of my zeds have it 97 and 99 pre face-lift and 99 face-lift so should yours .
Alarms upgrade optional but immobiliser standard kit across the board.

Stephen.
 
I have three keys for mine but the one with the built-in light only locks the car, it won't unlock the doors, yet it starts the ignition. Any ideas why it won't unlock the doors?
 
Sounds like the key I have but your missing a fob for the alarm system and central locking.
 
All 3 of my zeds have it 97 and 99 pre face-lift and 99 face-lift so should yours .
Interesting, one of my keys in picture. Have two plus a valet key. Very thin though, doesn't appear to have a chip, but wouldn't really know how to tell! Have separate "bricks" for the alarm/Immobiliser/remote locking and Certificate for BMW Anti-theft System 3G.EWS installed by supplying dealer in May 1997 (car build April 1997).
1692599072474.webp
 
Sounds like the key I have but your missing a fob for the alarm system and central locking.
I don't think I have an alarm, due to nothing letting me know it's set when I lock the car, plus there's a blanked-off circle on top of the dash where an alarm warning light may go. I have central locking - key operated - but doubt if I have remote locking. How do I begin to check?
 
Maybe you don’t then but have a look at this thread it will give you an idea what to look for.

 
I had a new key cut and coded for £40, I got mates rates but key looks like genuine BMW and works perfectly. So it can be done.
 
I bought a '97 2.8 Z3 Friday, it came with 3 keys, the lighted one looks like the other 2 but is worn width-wise & will not do anything (a new battery has the light working) :p

I called the dealer, gave my vin & was told the only way to get anything but a basic key is to buy all new cylinders that come with keys. I am also trying to find out if I have remote opening (no fob came with the car) The dealer said the remote came with heated driver door cylinders & I have that but otherwise he can't see anything specifically saying I have that option.

I have what appears to be all the owner's package manuals, warranty, NOAA weather radio packet (unopened with the card that has all the radio info), and a remote unlock manual. Am I mistaken in thinking that ought to indicate it has the option?

The sticker indicates an alarm. I tried to open the locked door through the window, it won't open (mini jail) lol

Ebay searches show the diamond-shaped (knock off) remote fob will work. Any help finding the right key & remote would be most appreciated!
keys and front of remote manual.webp
back of remote manual.webp
Alarm sticker.webp
 
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I have three keys for mine but the one with the built-in light only locks the car, it won't unlock the doors, yet it starts the ignition. Any ideas why it won't unlock the doors?
have you tried to turn two times to unlock. Clockwise, let go up and once again?
 
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