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3-Series (E36)Chat relating to the BMW 3-Series from 1992-1999. Autodoodad
Specific models include: BMW 316i, BMW 318i, BMW 318iS/ti, BMW 320, BMW 323, BMW 320, BMW 324, BMW 325, BMW 328.
SO I need to get a replacement key, but I'm wondering if it can be cut by a "professional" locksmith etc, since BMW keys are no longer standard. Someone said I woudl have to have it laser cut, but I did a little search and doesn't seem ike there is anyone in LA that does it? Hmmm? Can I have it doen or not, or do I need to contact a dealer and go through them?
Most ignition keys have to come from the dealer because they have that EWS security chip inside. They're about $50 at the dealer. You will need your vehicle registration or title and the ID of whose ever name is on it, in person, at the dealer parts department. It only takes a day to get them.
SO I need to get a replacement key, but I'm wondering if it can be cut by a "professional" locksmith etc, since BMW keys are no longer standard. Someone said I woudl have to have it laser cut, but I did a little search and doesn't seem ike there is anyone in LA that does it? Hmmm? Can I have it doen or not, or do I need to contact a dealer and go through them?
Any ideas, thoughts and such appreciated. Thanks!
get ur VIN + Registration+ ID and go to the dealer, they charge $35 for a copy...btw where in LA are u?
It depends on the year. If you have a 96+ it has to come from the dealer. Anything older than that can be cut anywhere, but it will take a lot of calling in the phone book to find someone who is capable of making a copy.
__________________ <span style='color:gray'><span style='font-family:Courier'>1995 e36 3 Series RIP
1999 e46 3 Series BURN IN HELL
2000 MR-S Roadster= Current</span></span>
It depends on the year. If you have a 96+ it has to come from the dealer. Anything older than that can be cut anywhere, but it will take a lot of calling in the phone book to find someone who is capable of making a copy.
really? from my experiance anything 91/92 (E36) + has to go to dealer
awsome, u should meet up with us sometime, there are 3-4 bmw owners in culver city/west la, we randomly meet up and just hang out..u should come through sometime...
good luck with the key, hit up santa monica bmw or beverly hills bmw...
so me and my bf were driving back and noticed a BMW Dealership in North Hollywood. Pulled in and went in to ask about the replacement key. First of guy behind the counter was a dumb ass, not only was he bluntly checking the girl in front of me each time she turned around but he was totally clueless about my car. Anyhoo ... when he asked me if I wanted my key with or without light, to which I said without, since I find this light quite useless anyways ... and figured I could save a buck or two, he quoted me with $75 for a replacement key!@! hell no. I will try tomorrow Santa Monica BMW or/and Beverly Hills .... I was expecting $50 but $75 seems a little bit steep to me.
Anyways just wanted to share my 10c with you guys!!
so me and my bf were driving back and noticed a BMW Dealership in North Hollywood. Pulled in and went in to ask about the replacement key. First of guy behind the counter was a dumb ass, not only was he bluntly checking the girl in front of me each time she turned around but he was totally clueless about my car. Anyhoo ... when he asked me if I wanted my key with or without light, to which I said without, since I find this light quite useless anyways ... and figured I could save a buck or two, he quoted me with $75 for a replacement key!@! hell no. I will try tomorrow Santa Monica BMW or/and Beverly Hills .... I was expecting $50 but $75 seems a little bit steep to me.
Anyways just wanted to share my 10c with you guys!!
1994 318is
Here's the quote I got today for a key. These are Canadian funds.
Looks like my valet key will be my spare for now.
When I'm in Calgary this summer I will try the 2 dealerships there.
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