New Fob for +$500 or what else could I try ?

[Doug Kandel]

I found a guy on Ebay who can cut a new metal key by sending him a PICTURE of your old key. I have no idea how he does this, but I sent a pic of the key from my 5 series, and he cut it and it works perfectly. cost about $15, i think..

Any link or seller name for us would be grand!

 

[Stevick]

But if you go this route, you don’t have the metal key cut to match your vehicle, right?

Right. The remote and the key are 2 separate parts from BMW, which can be ordered with your VIN and proof of your registration/ownership. As noted above, both can be had for $400 total from an online dealer. Someone can correct me if I'm wrong, but the key will be pre-cut to fit your car, so it is not a blank that requires a locksmith to cut it. That was the case when I bought the combined fob/key from BMW for my E38.

 

[Stevick]

I want to extend my previous comments on BMW making DIY/Indy repairs and use of aftermarket/used parts difficult, if not impossible in many instances involving electronics. As noted, a class action would be futile. However, legislation can tackle the problem. Currently, 5 states, including California and New York have Right to Repair statutes that address this problem. It's worth a bit of research for folks in those states to see if the law might give them a remedy there, if confronted with such issues. The U.S. Congress has attempted similar federal legislation with bi-partisan support [H.R. 906, the Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair (REPAIR) Act] , which recently died. This would be the best means of combatting these practices. Here's an interesting read with the competing arguments of the industry groups over it: https://www.truckpartsandservice.co...ns-share-views-for-and-against-the-repair-act

 

[alohart]

But if you go this route, you don’t have the metal key cut to match your vehicle, right?

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