E36 M3 Keys

Just picked up a '95... with one key. The forums all seem to think that they have a transponder, but this one sure doesn't look like it. Can I order a blank from Ebay and get it cut locally? Or might my hardware store (they have everything else) have a blank they could cut? Or is there some magic BMW BS I have to go through?

If the key doesn't have any electronic stuff in it, you should be able to order a new one from the local BMW dealer for not very much money. Just give them the VIN and they'll get one that's cut to match your car. Also, BMW keys are steel, hardware store keys are usually brass so they don't hold up as well.

Just like any modern day car I'm sure there is a transponder that links with EWS (theft protection). Getting into EWS requires a special adapter. A lot of independent BMW shops will have that stuff. My '99 has one...95 is a lot different though considering how similar they are.

I'm hoping it's a lot different (in the less electronics is better camp as far as theft protection) so they don't cost me a mint. I'll give the BMW dealer a ring and see what they say. I'm not positive that it doesn't have electronic interface with the car, but it sure doesn't look like it would- normal BMW key with a very skinny black plastic end. Nothing says "I'm electronic and you vil pay" to me.

The 318is I bought only came with one key as well. I went to a local locksmith and while they have the sidewinder machine to cut the blank, they don't have any blanks. I'm stuck with the dealer route as well. Thankfully, it's a '93 and doesn't have any of that factory anti-theft junk on it.

I don;t think the early cars have the transponder. I know my Ti doesn't

There seems to be nothing special about the keys for my '98 e36 M3 keys. There is a doohicky on the key fob for remote door locking /unlocking but it may be an aftermarket install. (When I needed a replacement battery for it the BMW parts counter guy was clueless, what else is new?) I think Stuart in MN is correct.

If it is a transponder key, you can always fool it. Find the loop that reads the transponder and find someplace in the column to permanently attach that transponder in it. Then its all cheap keys from there.