THE BMW KEY - EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

[@marktolner2922]

What a timely video - I was messing around with the key for my 1996 E38 this morning and then this popped up! Thanks so much.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

My pleasure Mark!

[@steel007007]

Great video thank you very much. I have a 98 e38 and my key keeps losing the programming any suggestions we've tried everything batteries reprogramming.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Check you are are really losing the programming - if you park near a microwave transmitter (such as a WiFi hub) then that will stop the key working. If that is not the case then get a second-hand key and use the transmitter from that,

[@TomHarker-tm9ld]

Sir, you are a bloody hero! I had so many problems trying to find re-code instructions for this older style key on my 1999 E46. It worked a charm, thankyou!

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Glad I could help!

[@Samfrankmac]

Thank you Tim, this was very useful when my 728i deiced to play silly buggers after the key battery went flat. Keep them coming, I like watching your videos instead of day time TV :D

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Glad it helped!

[@bernardpullon4632]

Absolutely brilliant info thank you. I have a 1997 540i and it never fails to please me even with 350K kms on it. Engine is faultless. I know much more about the key now thanks to your generosity.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Good man Bernard!

[@TheHomeExpert5]

@@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation I have a 1995 BMW 840ci. PLEASE HELP! No electricity is getting to the fuel pump. I checked the operation of the fuel pump out of the car and it spins fine when hooked up to a 12 volt battery. I replaced all known fuel pump relays and checked fuse 23, which was fine. Any ideas what is preventing electricity from getting to the fuel pump?

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

@@TheHomeExpert5 You only get power to the pump when the engine is turning (either when starting or running), you get nothing when the ignition is switched ON and the engine NOT running. I often get asked this question when the engine fails to start after it has been running well - and usually this is the problem: www.meeknet.co.uk/E32/Flooded_M60_Start.htm

[@davemc162]

What an exceptionally helpful and well done video. Thank you!

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Thanks Dave!

[@joshuatee597]

Dude u have such a smooth style, information rocks as well!

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

I appreciate that Joshua! P.S. I've been to Joshua Tree!

[@Alvin-bmw645ci]

Hi Timm this is Alvin your number one fan. This is a great video, ez to follow and to the point. Be safe my friend.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Alvin! Good to hear from you my friend!

[@Alvin-bmw645ci]

@@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation How was your Thanksgiving day? I hope it went well for you. In your last video I can see 2 pictures of some young people. Who are they?

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

@@Alvin-bmw645ci No thanksgiving in the UK Alvin! They are my daughters' school photo's - the eldest works for the NHS and the other, sadly, passed away in 2006.

[@alioral1358]

@@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation I feel sad as you are my relative. :( I wish she is in a heaven and happy .

[@Alvin-bmw645ci]

Hi Timm this is Alvin your number one fan. I was checking on you, to make sure that you and your family are doing well.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Hello Alvin #1 fan! All OK here. hope you and your family are good. More content coming soon but having a break from it for a week or so!

[@Alvin-bmw645ci]

@@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation Ok be safe

[@fluffyty19]

Hey Timm! Excellent video. Something I noticed with the remote keys of the pre-rechargeable era is that as the battery depletes toward empty, the key will begin to not lock the car. The key will work fine for unlocking (at least until the battery dies) but the remote won’t lock the car.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Thanks Tyler, yes, designed to stop you getting locked out - great system!

[@stewiecasserole12]

Brilliantly simplistic.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Thanks!

[@martinzeddy]

Thanks for the video. One note - check to see if the tang is broken on the old tumbler that you are replacing and then check to see if the broken piece is still lodged in the ignition cylinder groove. If it is, the new tumbler will not seat.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Thanks, yes that can be a problem

[@sabz3one3]

Great video timms I have a 97 e36 328 I have lost the transponder from my key. I got another key cut but still wont start. So i then got the ews deleted from the ECU still doesnt start. What would you say is the best way in getting another chip and coding jt

[@sabz3one3]

My local BMW (England) is saying they no longer do keys?

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Try Group One in Hindhead (Barons) they do them

[@ForidKhan123]

I have the 2 button fob my E34 and I was wondering if I can program a 3 button fob for it as 2 button fobs are harder to find. Great video by the way.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Yes, as long as you move the transponder over and the RF frequency is thesame it can be programmed to the car

[@ForidKhan123]

@@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation Lovely Jubbly! Thanks!

[@lesegokeakantse3610]

Thanks for detailed explanation

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

My pleasure Lesego!

[@PierreCoffin-p7v]

You’re the best! Thank you

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

You're welcome!

[@nil4309]

Thank you really helpful!!

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

My pleasure!

[@garyyoung9956]

Hi Tim just watched your video on All you need to know about BMW keys .I have the original key that the car came with it will no longer start the car, I have a new key from BMW it works fine, so what has actually happened to the original key that it now won't start the car and can it be made to work again with the original transponder?

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

If the old key fits in the lock and turns but does not start he car then the most likely cause is a loss of sychronisation with the EWS or DME - INPA can re-sychronise the key for you

[@garyyoung9956]

@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation Hi Tim what is INPA ?

[@garyyoung9956]

Hi Tim Tried the old key after I used the new one I received from BMW, and it worked but would not work prior to using the new key .So maybe offer this as a fix for a key that did not work. Regards Gary

[@kennysmusicalcabaret162]

Nice to the point sooooo because of that dare I ask why my 1999 523I key fob will unlock but not lock ? . I thought it was that the fob worked or not but not half ( if you get my meaning ! ) Many thanks and refreshing to get some no nonsense explanations !

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

One of the door, window, boot or bonnet sensors is showing that the car is not secure - that is why it will not lock

[@kennysmusicalcabaret162]

Thanks I guess that's a visit to a plug in diagnostic guy ( and before I get sued it's maybe a guy-ess guy -it guy whatever these days ) but thanks for the advice . @@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation

[@biminjo6999]

Hello there really good explanation but i have a problem it took me longer than a minute to change the battery and i lost connection for both keys so my remote opening doesn’t work ive been trying for a while to fix it and tried everything i even have inpa with ads interface and it said that remote initialization is locked and when i try to unlock it it does nothing do you have any suggestions and my car is e36 316 95 coupe

[@blakehaswell2678]

Hi there i have just bought a car that has a bad key and locks that don't work properly. could I swap all the locks, ignition barrel and key onto this car from my other one or would the ews system prevent this. Thanks heaps

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

That would be quite a job - but I have often seen key and lock sets including the EWS on Ebay

[@myname5290]

Help! I bought a used e36 and it got no key fob. I got a new key with chip from ali express and tried to pair it with the car but it didn't work. What should i do if i wanna fix it myself? Is it the mirror receiver? And how can i test if everything is working properly?

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

You need to follow the video - get the valet key from BMW to get the transponder

[@kevincody01]

I have a 1999 key without the battery in it or sensor BMW Clicker I have a separate remote fob that automatically locks the doors about 30 seconds after I close them and potentially I will lock the key in the car and I only have one key, I would like to update to a newer key design all-in-one fob if possible I can send a picture of the five so you have a better idea please let me know what my options are my options are thank you

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

All the information is contained in the video - it is quite easy to get the three-button key working with a 1999 model

[@alexdametto9285]

My e36 only came with a valet key. How would one pair a 3 button key to it.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

The keys are not paired to each other - they are paired to the car so you can follow the routine in this video

[@thecaptain5026]

Perfect video. My key works fine with a new battery and programming it. But... the battery will only last a few weeks to a month. Does anyone has any idea why this is? Thank you!

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Thanks! Yes, the remotes can go faulty and flatten batteries, see if you can get a second-hand one on Ebay....

[@thecaptain5026]

@@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation Thank you Timm, I'll try that when the battery fails again.

[@Slidinsidewayz2009]

Not EVERYTHING. I have a spare key that is cut to suit the ignition, but is missing the transponder chip. Can I buy a secondhand key and use that chip in mine if I program it somehow? I realise that most videos show how to program the remote to lock/unlock the doors, but can any suitable transponder be relearned by the system? Do I need to go to BMW and jump through lots of hoops to buy that wallet key to get a/the transponder? Thanks.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

You will need to buy the wallet key from BMW to get a working transponder - second-hand ones will not work

[@philplackett1067]

Tim, I was looking at your video on the BMW key, which was as usual very informative. I have lost one of the keys on the car that you sold me, which is still going well by the way. Did i hear correctly that you have a spare key for my car? If so please let me know and I will happily cross your palm with something! Hope your car is fully functional now its fixed and back on the road, mine is currently sitting in my big barn waiting for its spring polish, I am not sure what you polish it with, I have been pondering using ceramic coatings, do you have any thoughts you could share. Your cares always look fabulous and what do you use? Best regards and keep up the great work Phil - R121SRU!

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Hello Phil, no, I just have the shank and no transponder or remote - the rest went into one of the keys you had. Good to hear from you!

[@philplackett1067]

Thanks Tim, I thought I was going to be lucky! I have bought a new key on EBay - £5 - I just have to get it cut and I will then attach the small plastic key to it to see if it fires up, hopefully it will. The car is in the garage tomorrow to have the front seat sorted out, the garage damaged the leather last year and it had to be recovered and they didn’t hook the electrics up properly. I also need them to check out the drivers door lock. When you click it to open, the window drops down but the door won’t unlock. Any suggestions would be most appreciated. Keep up the great work! Phil

[@vedatmurseli9107]

Hello Mr Tim, my bmw 645 2005 has a diamond key and I've always had to manually open and close the door. When I try to turn the key the ignition is locked although the steering wheel is not locked. I've tried to wiggle the steering wheel to unlock the ignition although nothing happens. For some reason one of my rear lights stay on but both headlights work when I turn the lights on. I had to disconnect my battery in order for the rear light to go off. I had a little leak in my trunk that got to my battery but I tested the battery and it was good . I am having a lot of trouble finding the problem, if you have any ideas please let me know thank you sir.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Take this to bimmerforums.co.uk

[@topsskug9329]

Hey man.. my dads 840 remove key isnt working.. he bought a new one and i tried programming it with 3 click after ignition but nothing works.. do u have any tips?

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Have a read of this: www.meeknet.co.uk/E38/Key_Program.htm

[@Lewisusa11]

I have a 1996 328i and the Key has been finicky since I have had the car for the last 5 years. I am able to start the car and shut it off but can't get the key to the steering wheel lock position so I can get the key out. Is this possibly a shifter cable interlock issue? And is there a transponder in my 1996?

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Yes Chris, that sounds like the interlock cable: www.meeknet.co.uk/e38/Steptronic_Adjust.pdf

[@weirderspace7644]

I have a 1996 740il, I have went through all bases and the engine seems to be fine. I am getting crank no start, seems like the fuel injectors are just not firing at all. I have a code “94” seems to be ews but I am looking for info.

[@Smallz93-pv6gq]

Where is the location of the transponder inthe fob

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

I show the location in this video

[@alepepperoni2563]

Hi Timm. I've purchased a 2000 bmw z3 recently and only have a basic key and have to manually unlock the doors although it seems it has keyless entry from the factory? Would i be able to purchase a new key fob and program it myself easily? Thank you

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

A 2000 model probably has the diamond-shaped key, and they don't come apart that easily! If you have the same key as in my video then you will find the method of getting your key working by buying a second-hand key

[@user-ub5rg6fn6e]

Great Video Again!!!!

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Thanks!

[@davidedwards6352]

so are all the transponders the same? I've just bought an e36 m3 but it only has one key. its the remote key with the 3 buttons, none of the buttons work, I've fitted new batteries and tried to reprogramme but nothing happened. any advice?

[@Roadrunnin5.7]

Did the key light up ? I have a 98 e39 and my key was shot , nothing worked and the transponder is missing .

[@davidedwards6352]

@@Roadrunnin5.7 there isn't a light on my key, I don't think anyway.

[@mmbeauty1]

Hi Tim .I have bought my 1994 E31 840Ci with one key .Ordered a spare new key from BMW so have a spare.Both keys were OK starting the engine well .Since old key was worn I was using the new key only .One day I have stoped to get am ice cream , getting back to the car in 5 minutes time , car would not start .Called my wife to come by with the old key just in case this would help ,bingo car started again with no problems using the old key .Buts new key started working again / Ever since I was using the old key again until same has happened , old key stopped to start the car .,new key worked ... ever since I will not leave the house driving the E31 without both keys with me in pocket . Both key working now but I do not rust the car with one key only....

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

That used to be a problem on my first E38 with the same key - ended up carrying two keys around with me. INPA showed 'Key not recognised' errors, but, as with yours, using the spare got the main one working again. Only stranded me once before I carried both keys....

[@mmbeauty1]

Hi Time Thanks for your kind reply .Similar has happened to my E46M3 , one day suddenly my 2 remote keys stopped turning the engine on , only my small wallet key started the car engine. Ordered a new key from BMW , nothing , BMW ordered second ,one nothing , scanned the car all OK at the end third key worked , there was some key number location problem in the security system but E46 are different key system I assume ..

[@hughesj]

Great video! My main key for my e38 is looking pretty tired and my secondary one doesn’t work at all.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Thanks James, well you know how to get two new ones now!

[@tollefreyerson6710]

Great awesome video!!

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Thanks Tollef!

[@E38Bimmer35]

Helpful and very well presented information. I got a weird problem though: My key works perfectly and unlocking and starting works at all times, although the locking has got a problem. I usually have to press the button quite a few times until the car locks, i usually walk a few rounds around the car until it eventually works, but sometimes it works at first try. I already replaced the battery too and intiated the key, got any advice? Its an e38 with the same kind of key your e31 has.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Thanks Buck, sounds like the transmitter has a low output - it will not lock the car if the signal is low as it sees this as a low battery situation. Best way forward is to buy a second-hand key and transplant the remote

[@E38Bimmer35]

@@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation Thanks for the response, i will give it a try and see if that works.

[@3UZFE]

What region is Tim's accent from?

[@ANDYW031084]

Hi there ! Quick question I own 2003 BMW 540 you think I will be able to program old style remote to my car ? Because my key is diamond shape and I cant change the battery because is not changeable in this key.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

I don't see why not Andy, same transponder, same remote frequency, give it a go with a second-hand key.

[@ianchinn6586]

Hi Tim, advice please, i ordered a key for my 2004 645 from bmw, as my key was not locking and unlocking as quick as it used to so i guess the battery is a bit tired after17 years. The key arrived,£170, but didnt work, half the BMW workshop tried, so they said they would have to order another key, a week later and another 50mile round trip, exact same result. Now they want to book car in for further investigations at MY expense! as they say its the car? Even though i point out my existing key works, so surely its their key or their programming at fault. Your thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks. Ian.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Try this and let me know how it goes: STEP 1-Turn on the ignition. You should sit in the driver's seat with both the ignition key and the key fob with all doors closed. ... STEP 2-Press the lock button. ... STEP 3-Turn off the ignition. ... STEP 4-Repeat the process with other key fobs. ... STEP 5-Restart the process.

[@bobbybridgeman2629]

The BMW key always used to get picked out at certain parties I seem to remember...........forgot to mention that one Timm.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Good point Bobby!

[@guinnessme]

Would i be able to just reprogram those folding keys fob on amazon ""Modified Flip Keyless Entry Remote Control Replacement Key Fob 4 Button"""" and using the transponder from the original bmw key fob ? are those keys in uk working on 433mhz frequency ? thanx

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

It all depends on the codes that the remote can produce - worth a try!

[@guinnessme]

@@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation do you know the operating frequency of the BMW key shown on your video? Thank you

[@Bredmirror]

The valet key cant open the passanger side either.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

We only get one key hole!

[@RickSanchez-zi7us]

Opens miy side

[@derekharmon9353]

2001 x5 don’t have a plastic transponder in it

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

No, soldered directly to the PCB

[@yuhaz]

thx

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

My pleasure!

[@alioral1358]

Thank you sir. I programmed my key after new batteries. It locked now 40 meters far .

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Great stuff Ali!

[@yerrie1908]

My E46 has the same key

[@boomeranguk1]

Awwaa meyt thank you soi much what a usefull video, thanks to you now l can dive deeper in to findout what is the problem causing,barel not letting the key out, l think it may be the shift cable like y say maby lose,, aahhh u are a life saver meyt thank you for this video well done 🤌👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Thanks, yes, the shift cable!

[@buckminsterfullerene2294]

Why can’t you repair the tumbler ?

[@andrewthompsonuk1]

My E38 keeps throwing the key battery low message. If I clean the contacts on the key buttons it works for about 3 days and then I get the same message....

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Buy a second-hand key and use the remote from it as it is a remote problem!

[@Jean-Paul_1984]

My pfl E39 has the “old” key as in this video. I have an annoying issue with both the key I always use and the spare one: the lock button is super sensitive. By the slightest touch or in my pocket the car locks. It also therefore drains the battery. Does anyone know how to fix this? My E46 has the diamond key and I have no issue whatsoever.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Yes, just chop off a bit of the rubber prong - all shown in the video

[@Jean-Paul_1984]

@@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation thanks a lot, Tim. Worked like a charm!

[@bignorge]

I'm sure that this video series has taken over more of your life than you anticipated, so respond when you can, I'm in no hurry. My 2007 650i Convertible only has the remote Keyfob. In the USA, the price to get another Keyfob is $480 US or 360 Pounds. Do you know of any way to purchase a Keyfob and then program one to work with my car?

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

No I don't - but I will investigate!

[@hate1079]

how would i remove the tumbler when i am unable to turn the key ?

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

If the whole lock spins you can drill from underneath to stop it rotating - if it doesn't turn at all then you will need to replace the casting - that tumbler will NOT come out without the correct key!

[@hate1079]

@@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation i have the correct key but i’m not to sure if i should go about replacing the key or the tumbler i still have the original key so it may be worn down

[@noanyobiseniss7462]

Threw my keys at a stray that was constantly tearing up the deck chair cushions when I was away and the stinking chip came out and got lost on the lawn. Real Pita waiting on a new key at the time.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

You don't want to do that Noan!

[@stripemaster9]

Hi Timm, my 95 840 has a key "always in" indication on the dash. 215K miles Any hint on what controls that protocol?

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

I thought that was from the transponder - check if you have one hidden around the steering column, often done for remote starting.

[@marktolner2922]

In case it helps here is a video showing how to stop spinning without buying a new tumbler: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ioDPYXxnn66no6c

[@marktolner2922]

Sorry, I have deleted this comment as it turns out that my information and belief was wrong and I did not want to upset or disappoint anyone.

[@TimmsBMWRepairsandInformation]

Thanks for the info Mark!