Replacement "flip" key possible?

[alexman]

I'm kinda disappointed by the fact that all Z4's have a naff one piece key when Audis and even VWs (!) have flip style keys, which are more comfortable in the pocket and feel cooler.

Is it possible (hopefully as the key has the frequency on the back) to get an OEM Audi key or OEM basic flip style key and program it to work with my car?

 

[Spud]

Audis and VWs have the same key because they're part of the same company!

 

[pvr]

yes, www.rclick.co.uk

 

[cj10jeeper]

In terms of keys it's possible to slot any key into the ignition and them programme it to open and close the doors, however it has a transponder that matches to the engine so unless you use a correct key from BMW specific for your car then it will never start the engine.

I would deduce from that that no other key will work eitherm so PVR proposes a sensible solution

 

[pvr]

For rclick you need to move the transponder to the new key.

 

[Sticks]

I know what you mean but I find the Audi keys a bit bulky, and the sometimes ping open in your pocket. Still, one way to make an impression I suppose.

 

[cj10jeeper]

For rclick you need to move the transponder to the new key.

That would make sense, else you'd have one system to open/close doors, windows, etc and another 'old' key in the column.

Not for the ham fisted though taking the transponder out. Most I managed is to swap a microswitch over to avoid buying a new key

(If I thought they were a 2 minute job to wire I'd fit that kit to my daughters Ka that has central locking but no remote.)

 

[pvr]

Took me 20 minutes to completely set up on the Polo, all wires connected to the central locking pump, and one wire to each indicator to make them flash on lock / unlock.

Total cost £24.98

 

[cj10jeeper]

Took me 20 minutes to completely set up on the Polo, all wires connected to the central locking pump, and one wire to each indicator to make them flash on lock / unlock.

Total cost £24.98

Then it sounds like a decent idea

 

[a11y]

Ha, even my VW van has a flip key :roll:

But call me old-fashioned (or just old...), but I like a "normal" key like the Z4's - feels and looks like a key should.

 

[James_G]

Ha, even my VW van has a flip key :roll:

But call me old-fashioned (or just old...), but I like a "normal" key like the Z4's - feels and looks like a key should.

Agreed. Don't like the flip keys anyway, as everybody things you have a Golf. Which just won't do. Current BMW key (i.e anything post Z4) is nice though, pop it in the dash, press the start button et voila, car is going. Nice.

 

[gannet]

dont understand those new keys with the start button separate...

I mean what is wrong with the way things have been done for years and everyone knows about - 1 action: insert and twist (oo-err!) rather than insert then find the start button and press :? seems counter productive to me :idunno:

Mazda's have the flip out key as well, so do Alfa's....

 

[Robb]

I think someone told me the reason manufacturers are moving away from the key in the standard position was somehing to do with getting the full 5 stars on the ncap test, apparently the standard key can cause serious damage to the drivers knee in the event of a crash and moving it away onto the dash with a start button gets around this problem.
If you look its not just bmw that are doing it, volvo have it on the dash in all their new cars, saab have it down by the handbrake, ford are moving toward keyless and start button, lexus are providing knee airbags, etc etc.

 

[ozz4]

This will require sacraficing a factory key for the transponder but I would like to look at it.

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/FLIP-Folding-Key-Remote-for-BMW-3-5-7-SERIES-Z3-Z4-X3_W0QQitemZ300363004554QQcmdZViewItemQQptZAU_Car_Parts_Accessories?hash=item45ef07ba8a

 

[Gremlin500]

I know this is an old thread, but a word of warning in case anyone else tries this.
The Z4 "diamond" key fob is a snug fit into the cone-shaped ring around the ignition lock, -go check it out. There is an induction coil in the ring to charge up the fob battery. Flip keys are bulkier, so will not quite reach far enough to start the car, (although you may get the ignition on), plus the key will not charge properly, as the fob coil will not be close enough to the lock coil.
I also managed to damage the circuit board cutting the key open, so can't recommend the method shown on youtube, no matter how careful you are, one slip and....
So now I have to buy a new key from BMW. Don't try it!

 

[sk93]

This will require sacraficing a factory key for the transponder but I would like to look at it.

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/FLIP-Folding-Key-Remote-for-BMW-3-5-7-SERIES-Z3-Z4-X3_W0QQitemZ300363004554QQcmdZViewItemQQptZAU_Car_Parts_Accessories?hash=item45ef07ba8a

I did this, worked perfectly and pretty easy, although you do need to very slightly trim down the board a bit for a perfect fit.

 

[Anonymous]

Flip keys are bulkier, so will not quite reach far enough to start the car, (although you may get the ignition on)

My flip key from Ben at BMKeys works fine. It uses ordinary batteries so doesn't need the induction charging voodoo.

Search for the thread "Key prices!!!".

 

[sammysquid]

I know this is an old thread, but a word of warning in case anyone else tries this.
The Z4 "diamond" key fob is a snug fit into the cone-shaped ring around the ignition lock, -go check it out. There is an induction coil in the ring to charge up the fob battery. Flip keys are bulkier, so will not quite reach far enough to start the car, (although you may get the ignition on), plus the key will not charge properly, as the fob coil will not be close enough to the lock coil.
I also managed to damage the circuit board cutting the key open, so can't recommend the method shown on youtube, no matter how careful you are, one slip and....
So now I have to buy a new key from BMW. Don't try it!

where in the uk are you?
I reckon its not beyond being sorted... if you have the cutting done I might be able to sort out the two part keys you have into two separate working keys.
if you decide not to take me up on my offer... what I would suggest is buying a used bmw key from ebay for £4-5 and taking the circuit board out and then you could swap over your transponder chip - its the little eight legged chip with 10300a written on it and then putting this board inside whichever key takes your interest. It would save you £100 from bmw for sure.
let me know if I can be of help.

 

[Gremlin500]

PM sent!

 

[rkstar9]

I was also unsuccessful getting the car to start with the flip key.

the transponder isn't close enough to the ignition.

is the solution to move the transponder closer to the key? pics would really help!