Missing key problem!!! - BMW Forum

1992 318i · 12-23-2012, 10:55 AM

I have a 1994 318i coupe with a lost key, I was wondering could i just install an ignition switch instead of finding a new key and all the other stuff.Or could I get a key made for my key , no new locks or any thing.

Lord Vader · 12-23-2012, 08:29 PM

Your easiest option is to get a new key. How? Head on over to the dealership. They will have one ordered for you.

The E36 has a chip in it and without the code in the chip matching the code in the ignition, the car wont start. Removing this entire system, or modifying it to fit an ignition switch would be difficult, and quite costly if paying someone to do it for you. The cheapest option is to just get a new key.

1992 318i · 12-25-2012, 03:21 PM

So Bmw dealer would just order one for my existing ingition system, no problems, should I bring my title or vin number with me?

Lord Vader · 12-25-2012, 03:38 PM

Ya they will order you one based on your cars VIN. I needed a second key after I bought my E36 so I just headed down with my registration and drivers license and they ordered me one. It works perfect with no issues.

1992 318i · 12-26-2012, 02:37 PM

Right now i dont have a key at all, is that still ok?

Lord Vader · 12-29-2012, 09:38 AM

Yes, all you need is proof of ownership of the vehicle your getting the key for.

cabaye · 01-23-2013, 07:00 AM

How much would all of that cost?

1992 318i · 01-23-2013, 07:48 AM

I called the BMW dealership it'd cost About $91.68 for a 94 e36 and that's where I live, don't know if that makes a big difference

Ivan413 · 01-23-2013, 01:43 PM

91.68 for a new key isn't bad when u compare it too the new ones that run about 300-400 dollars to replace.

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cabaye · 01-24-2013, 08:48 AM

Yeah sounds ok I guess

Ivan413 · 01-24-2013, 11:35 AM

Yeah much more reasonable

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Lord Vader · 01-24-2013, 12:12 PM

I paid over $100 for my replacement key. The one with the light in it costs more then the one without so keep that in mind.

1992 318i · 01-24-2013, 01:56 PM

I have a key with a light in it for my 92 318i, the bulb is gone but I dont really care for the light anyways. So I'll stick with the nonlight key.I just need it to move my car because i need to do stuff with it. I have a another question that has nothing to do with keys, is the MAF on a 1992 318i the same as a MAF on a 1994 318i coupe? I really dont what to buy one they are around $300.

Ivan413 · 01-24-2013, 06:05 PM

If your cars production date is 3/92 or earlier then it can't use the maf out of the 94

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1992 318i · 01-25-2013, 11:25 AM

i want the MAF out of the 92 318i to put it into the 94 318i. Not from 94 to 92.