Key dont fit in glove and trunk locks

[brosnan6]

I have a 98 318ti, and I am having some issues with my key. THe key I have doesnt fit in the glove compartment lock, as well as the trunk lock. Its not really that big a deal, but I would like to lock the glove compt when I take my cd players face plate off so its safer. ANd if my aftermarket keyless system were to die, I would have to unlock the front doors first and then be able to access the trunk. Do i need a special key or something to use those locks? THanks a lot

[007ben]

It may be the valet key if they had them for the e36 i know the did for e39. just used to open and start car not access to trunk or glove box. check with the dealer maybe get a new master key/set made and see if that improves things.

[BlantonG13]

Yeah, the E36s have Valet keys that only turn the car on and unlock the doors. I know that my master key has a nifty little yellow light in it, so I would assume many other BMWs have the same thing. The Valet key is just a regular key with no grove in it, just the key pattern. Check with the dealer to get a new key set and you should be golden.

[TeeUp]

Originally posted by BlantonG13@May 11 2004, 02:11 PM
Yeah, the E36s have Valet keys that only turn the car on and unlock the doors. I know that my master key has a nifty little yellow light in it, so I would assume many other BMWs have the same thing. The Valet key is just a regular key with no grove in it, just the key pattern. Check with the dealer to get a new key set and you should be golden.

there are normally four keys given to car owners by the dealer....

one of which (the thick one without lights, and in my case it is colored gray) only opens the door and turns on the ignition and yes its the valet key - just to allow others to drive it without the ability to open (or lock) the glove baggage compartments.

one thin key (black) controls the glove and baggage compartments as well as the ignition switch.

your dealer can provide extra keys for a cost and you may just have to bring a copy of your car's title or any other proof of ownership. registration may do.. you might want to call them before you go.