New Z3 Key required

[Bobafixit]

Hi guys

I only have one key (remote / transponder) for my Z3. So I've been looking in to getting a new spare key.

I have been quoted £170 from Coopers BMW in Chelmsford which I think is quite expensive.

Has anyone got any ideas (I'm based in Essex).

 

[Cooper]

I recommend getting the second key without the transponder. I got mine from a dealer in England for 55 pound. [unless you really need the transponder of course - I gave the spare to the wife that never used it anyway as it was really just a spare].

Cooper

 

[oldcarman]

What do those plastic keys from eBay do? Will they start your car even though it doesn't have a programmed chip? If so that's all you need. I have one but can't try it right now due to the car being in snow! JIM

 

[mktommo]

I have a pre facelift so a little different set up with a programmed key and separate remote control for remote opening. I've ditched the remote opening (partly because I want to save it for future prosperity as the car gets old and partly because its too bulky), and got a programmed key from BMW Milton Keynes for a little under £50 - just purchased this week.

If you can live without remote opening and its possible to have a similar set up on facelift models may be worth a try?

 

[Geophys]

When I bought my car it came with one remote control key, and one without the remote. The remote control key (same as the one you show) had definitely seen better days, someone had even written on the buttons in white ink to say what each one did. To me a functioning key is a pretty important part of the car so I bit the bullet and bought a new one from my local main dealer, and yes it was £168, but well worth the money for the peace of mind.

 

[Paulro]

I bought two brand new keys from Germany on eBay recently for my z3 3.0.
They are blanks so need to be cut and they accept the inside of your worn key so you can have a brand new working key.
I paid 12.90 for the two. Sold by 2mm-service under BMW E36 blank case and film.
Hope this helps.
Paul

 

[oldcarman]

I have a pre facelift so a little different set up with a programmed key and separate remote control for remote opening. I've ditched the remote opening (partly because I want to save it for future prosperity as the car gets old and partly because its too bulky), and got a programmed key from BMW Milton Keynes for a little under £50 - just purchased this week.

If you can live without remote opening and its possible to have a similar set up on facelift models may be worth a try?

BMW want $450 for a new programmed key here, I should have sent my key to the UK while I await spring in about two months!! £50 is more realistic pricewise and I have a remote but don't use it. Also pre facelift!! JIM