New keys cut

[Ler]

Hey all,

New to the site, don't mind the newbie stuff. I'm wondering if anybody could share their experiences in getting a new key cut for their e30? I have the illuminate fob/key which has cracked, key still works but I want to fix the fob and get a spare key made, dealership in Canada quoted me $180, ish, said it could be more... Mentioned they had to order the blank from Germany, which I could understand but they can't cut the key on site, they had to send the key out. Thought's? Stupid question?

[Vincenze]

The regular cut key costs about US $140 from a dealership.
Yes, a dealership will order the key from BMW. You must provide the title or registration.

You can order a blank key and try to find a locksmith. People say the E30 keys are made of steel compared to modern keys made of brass.

[Ler]

Thanks Vincenze, I’ll give the dealership a call and go through the process.

[Vincenze]

Here is a thread with information about E30 keys.

https://www.r3vlimited.com/board/forum/e30-technical-forums/appearance-cosmetic/general-cosmetics/302973-e30-oem-key-ocd-thread

If your key is worn out, BMW will provide you a new key according to your VIN. But make sure that your locks have never been changed.

I got a new regular key. It works perfectly and matches my other keys.
I don't have a key with the light.

[roguetoaster]

I would probably ignore the dealer, but they aren't being completely unreasonable, providing you get an actual cost before going ahead.

Alternately, find a new illuminated key blank PN 51211900894 $80-100USD and get it cut at a local locksmith. At the same time you can get a couple of spares done, which retail for under $20 USD and still come out below dealer cost.

[efficient]

I would probably ignore the dealer, but they aren't being completely unreasonable, providing you get an actual cost before going ahead.

Alternately, find a new illuminated key blank PN 51211900894 $80-100USD and get it cut at a local locksmith. At the same time you can get a couple of spares done, which retail for under $20 USD and still come out below dealer cost.

Would this require me pulling the locks and him trying to figure it out?

[Vincenze]

Would this require me pulling the locks and him trying to figure it out?

A locksmith will use a copying machine to create a duplicate of your key. Reading the topic above, not every locksmith has a copying machine for steel keys.
If a copy doesn't work, he can't do much.

BMW will make a new key that matches your VIN.