Replacement Key

[jaguartvr]

I've just tried to order a replacement key for the Z3 but according to BMW it is now obsolete si they cannot supply one. The car was a Belgian import (RHD?) so the chassis number is not on their system.
The key is old and a bit worn so I would prefer a new key to cut from a photo or code. Does anyone have any idea of where I can obtain a new spare remote key?

 

[Mario]

BMKeys - I got a few from them no problem you might need to send the EWS

 

[colb]

BMKeys have had a few mentions on here in the past, they will want your existing key and the EWS module from the car to code a new key. Alternative is to find a mobile locksmith who can cut and code a new key, usual cost sround £130, thats what I paid for my Z4 key.

 

[the Nefyn cat]

I got some blanks from ebay, had them cut by the bloke in town, and swapped the little black bit over very carefully.

 

[jaguartvr]

Thanks for the replies. I have ordered a AK90 key reader and will post how I will get on.

 

[Beatleboy]

Timpsons cut and clone Z3 keys I was quoted £58.00

 

[mwebby]

Timpsons cut and clone Z3 keys I was quoted £58.00

Just out of interest where are you based Beatleboy? I tried two of my local Timpsons and they wouldn't touch the keys, said I had to go to BMW direct.

 

[colb]

Don't think they will code the key correctly, it has to be programmed into the EWS system on the car and to do that they have to connect to the EWS module thats in the car in order to read it and programme the new key to a vacant key slot within it. Simply cloning an exhisting key is no good as every time the key is used it generates a rolling code so the next time its used it recognises the key and allow the car to start. Two keys programmed to the same slot in the EWS is not going to give you two separate working keys.
As to AK90 key coding, best of luck with that I tried that and it failed to code me a usable key despite many attempts, gave up in the end and had a mobile locksmith programme my already cut key, he had to use the pin outs on the eeprom chip in the EWS module to read the key data and code to a usable slot. £130 to do that, key was a ebay blank with a chip in it and the blade was cut by a local key cutter, key £9 and cutting £9.

 

[bear2020]

Don't think they will code the key correctly, it has to be programmed into the EWS system on the car and to do that they have to connect to the EWS module thats in the car in order to read it and programme the new key to a vacant key slot within it. Simply cloning an exhisting key is no good as every time the key is used it generates a rolling code so the next time its used it recognises the key and allow the car to start. Two keys programmed to the same slot in the EWS is not going to give you two separate working keys.
As to AK90 key coding, best of luck with that I tried that and it failed to code me a usable key despite many attempts, gave up in the end and had a mobile locksmith programme my already cut key, he had to use the pin outs on the eeprom chip in the EWS module to read the key data and code to a usable slot. £130 to do that, key was a ebay blank with a chip in it and the blade was cut by a local key cutter, key £9 and cutting £9.

I have used Timpsons a few times. They gave me a reader for all the cars I have had cut that plugs into the OBD reads the immobliser and they cut the key with that chip in it. Granted it wont open the doors from any remotely but it does allow you to unlock the car and start the engine. I need one done for the Z3 in the next few weeks so will report back if they can do it. They have done a vauxhall, fiat, renault and subaru for me so far. Think they cost me about £60-£70

 

[Atlanta]

I got key sorted at Timsons Hunts Cross Shopping Centre Liverpool

 

[mrscalex]

That’s very interesting about Timpsons and the OBD plug in.

I’ve used AK90 to code a number of keys. Bit fiddly and requires patience. I get keys cut from a guy who reads a photo of old key. Then needs PCB from donor key and new transponder chip. Can bang out a key for about £25.

The reason BMW have stopped supplying them is because Silica, the key bank supplier, have either stopped producing the key or I believe just had long term supply issues. But there are useable Chinese blanks out there, some of them duff btw - metal too hard and breaks expensive cutters. I leave it to my locksmith to choose. He’s also done me a nice modern flip key with PCB that I got coded up like it was an original. Good result that one.

 

[Beatleboy]

That seems good . My Z3 is a 98 model obviously it has central locking but not remote locking , there are no buttons on key apart from a torch light button .

 

[Iamjonw]

That seems good . My Z3 is a 98 model obviously it has central locking but not remote locking , there are no buttons on key apart from a torch light button .

Mine is a 98 model, local stealer quoted around £60 to provide a second key, just need to book it in

 

[Ab 1]

I also went into the local dealer yesterday and was told the same, but they offer a generic key for £180+ vat !!!!
I have emailed a local bmw independent who offers keys.

 

[Iamjonw]

I checked with the our local Timpsons, they will provide a key for £59, copying coding from the original key - any issues with this approach?

 

[mrscalex]

I checked with the our local Timpsons, they will provide a key for £59, copying coding from the original key - any issues with this approach?

Interesting. Done a lot of fiddling with keys. Always wondered how Timpsons provided this service. And if they really provided a fully working key. If they say it works and if it starts the car then I can't see there'd be a problem. I don't think the EWS would have a problem with it's key management - it keeps records of what keys have been used with the car. I guess if the key it's cloned from also works then happy days.

£59 sounds very cheap for a fully working key. And from Timpsons of all places which I find expensive. Are you sure that's not for a new blade & case for an existing key?

 

[Iamjonw]

Interesting. Done a lot of fiddling with keys. Always wondered how Timpsons provided this service. And if they really provided a fully working key. If they say it works and if it starts the car then I can't see there'd be a problem. I don't think the EWS would have a problem with it's key management - it keeps records of what keys have been used with the car. I guess if the key it's cloned from also works then happy days.

£59 sounds very cheap for a fully working key. And from Timpsons of all places which I find expensive. Are you sure that's not for a new blade & case for an existing key?

No it's for a brand new key, they have had to order one in, should be here on Thursday. They will then copy/clone the existing key.

 

[mrscalex]

Give it a go if you're happy to. And report back here on results. £59 is cheap money for an additional key.

 

[bear2020]

No it's for a brand new key, they have had to order one in, should be here on Thursday. They will then copy/clone the existing key.

Like I said they have done this many times for me and I have never encountered any problems with it. I'll be getting another one done for the Z3 once its on the road again.