From digest.v7.n950 Thu Jan 15 03:19:00 1998
From: "Brett Anderson" <bretta_at_BestWeb.net>
Date: Wed, 14 Jan 1998 23:47:34 -0500
Subject: Re: Spare keys for 90s BMWs BA

> From: Andres Jaime <ajaime_at_pop.erols.com>
> Date: Tue, 13 Jan 1998 23:48:34 -0500
> Subject: Spare keys for 90s BMWs
>
> When I bought my used 1993 E36 a few months ago to replace my E30, I only
> got two keys from the previous owner, and no valet key.
>
> I want to get a 3rd key, and if possible a valet key.
>
> Can I get my keys copied at a locksmith ? It seems that to have a spare
> key made I can only go to the dealer. This would imply $30 per key, and
> two trips, one to place the order and one to pick up a few days later.
On

> my E30 I used to go the corner store and get a key copied for $2. Isn’t
> $30 for a plain key (no EWS in 1993) a little bit too much ??
>
> Thanks in advance for any ideas about this.
>
> Andres
> ajaime_at_erols.com
>
>

These keys are "laser cut", a locksmith can make one for you , provided they have the equipment, and most don't. I dare say it is probably one of those cases where the equipment costs $30 grand, and the product can only be reasonably sold for $25. Hardly makes it worthwhile, huh.

Besides this fact, if you do find a locksmith to cut the key, chances are he will make it from the original, which may have been worn considerably considering it is 4 years old.
The advantage of the dealer is that the key is cut from code, making it brand new. The disadvantage is the cost, which I think may be more than $30 , but before you start screaming, a master key for an E38 or E39 costs approx $120. The master key for some Lexus models costs $350. So BMW may not be so overpriced as you think

Brett Anderson

BMW and ASE Master Technician

http://www.bestweb.net/~bretta/