Replacement key question

[stuartinmn]

Is it still possible to get an OEM replacement key that's been cut to match the existing key code? I have a blank key that I could take to a locksmith, but it would be nicer to just be able to buy one that's ready to go.

My existing key still works, just thinking about the future in case it decides to break some day.

[Blue Shadow]

Depends on the vehicle. Ask a dealer if they can get you a cut key. They can supply until they run out for your lock.

[BMWCCA2]

A dealer will order the key from BMW cut to code. There is no limit to how many keys you can get for a pre-EWS (chipped) car. Cut keys from BMW have been known to have some additional "bumps" on the key like the machine they use doesn't care about some of the space between "teeth". I'll check to see if the system still cranks out key codes for our cars by VIN.

[Blue Shadow]

I wish the key code for my car was correct. Ordered keys decades ago and they were nowhere near correct using the key code for the car. Doubt all the locks were changed prior to me buying the car from BMWNA.

[austin8753]

i've bought several keys from the dealer in the last couple years and all of them have worked great. hopefully your locks and lock accessories are all original to the car.

[gadget73]

I don't suppose there are key decoder docs out there? Some mfg have documents that you can use along with a set of calipers to figure out what the code is based on cut depth at each position.

[Blue Shadow]

Dealer parts guy said they could look at the lock and the tabs in the lock and make a key based on the tab info.

Seems like there are lots of ways around getting a key unless it is one of the chipped keys we don't have.

[topher800]

The key I got back from the dealer also did not work. They then took a digital photo and sent that off. The next key worked. That was about 5 years ago.

Chris

[Technician117]

Has anyone tried ordering a key lately? I was at the dealer today picking up some parts and brought my key in to order a spare. The parts guy didn't even try looking it up, he just flatly stated that they don't make/sell keys that old anymore and that he couldn't even look it up in the system. Based on this thread, it sounds like he's possibly out of touch? Or maybe things have changed in the last couple years? 

[milarsky]

In my opinion, there is no coding whatsoever.  Buy a blank from Ebay and find an experienced locksmith to cut it.

[stuartinmn]

I'm the original poster, and I still haven't gotten around to doing anything about having a new key made.    In the meantime I've been using a valet key to save wear and tear on the original (for some reason I have several of them.)

[Mike W.]

I'm the original poster, and I still haven't gotten around to doing anything about having a new key made.    In the meantime I've been using a valet key to save wear and tear on the original (for some reason I have several of them.)

I'd get a hardware store key made just for a spare. Or to use. It'll be brass vs the original steel, and while the key will wear, it doesn't impart any additional wear on the lock itself. 5 bucks vs a possible royal pain.

[austin8753]

the dealer will no longer give out key codes, radio codes, and last i checked, will not sell new keys or ignition tumblers (as of the last time i checked, a few months ago)  pretty stupid.  a lot has changed since 2022.  

for these old cars, buying the BMW blank keys (made by Huf) and having a local locksmith shop of your choice cut them, seems to be the best route.  even for my 2004 Range Rover (which is technically a BMW), the (Jaguar/Land Rover) dealer didn't want to make a key for it - $155 and an hour later, my local shop made one, without issue.

[Technician117]

Thanks guys. I knew there wasn't any coding needed, but wanted a BMW steel key that would come to me cut already to save time and hassle. I do believe though that there are different style blanks? My key has an "S" stamped on it.

I see blanks on eBay. I'll probably take a chance on one and hope it's the correct style to then have cut to match my current key. I've heard that a lot of locksmith's don't like cutting steel keys because of the added wear to their machine. I may have to try several shops or offer to pay extra to get them to cut it! I'll post back if/when successful. Worst case, I can do like mentioned and have a brass key cut. I really just want to make sure I have a spare for all the usual reasons. 

[Technician117]

Just posting an update. I confirmed the dealer couldn't (wouldn't?) help with a new key. I went to eBay and bought a matching key blank that is supposedly NOS. It certainly looks exactly like my original. Yesterday I took the key to a locksmith who said he couldn't cut it as the space to hold it in the machine was too small AND that he doesn't want to damage his cutter on the steel key. All of this I've heard before (on this page) but not to be deterred, I went to the next locksmith on my list. They readily accepted the job and had it cut in a couple minutes for $5. I tested the key and it works fine!