Simple (?) key question

[Old-Duckman]

Got my spare key today and programed it to open, lock doors etc.

The question: I know that the key battery charges when in the ignition and I plan on rotating my keys every month or so but...does the car have to be running for the key battery to charge or can I just leave the key in the ignition overnight to charge it up ? The car is in a locked garage, so I don't have to worry about someone stealing the Z by leaving the key in the car overnight.

 

[Anonymous]

You can sit the key on top of an electric toothbrush charger if you have one

 

[colb]

Don't think it will charge just sat in the ignition car has to be on for the charging to operate, try the rechargable tootbrush base, worked on mine doing it that way.

 

[Old-Duckman]

Thanks, I do have an electric toothbrush, thank goodness...I'll use it for my keys now as well as the toothbrush!

 

[gzman1]

newbie also, where'd you source the key and how'd ya program it? seems like a lot of bad reviews from the amazon and ebay sites. tia Derek

 

[Old-Duckman]

newbie also, where'd you source the key and how'd ya program it? seems like a lot of bad reviews from the amazon and ebay sites. tia Derek

I went with a BMW dealer for a new key $230.60 USD, shipped to my home. Simple programing: video on YT. As I recall you put the new key in the ignition, turn it to 1st position, remove key, hold down one button (I forget which one) and press another button 3 times in a row. You hear the locks cycle...your done.

I live near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a fairly large city. I called around many places, locksmith, auto locksmiths and the like. No one would supply a BMW key, even for a BMW as old as mine (2004). I figured the BMW dealer was a sure thing even though expensive.

Spent the cash, programed after watching YT video...haven't looked back.

 

[Mr Tidy]

newbie also, where'd you source the key and how'd ya program it? seems like a lot of bad reviews from the amazon and ebay sites. tia Derek

Hi there - depending on where you are this might be helpful:- https://z4-forum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=13&t=117993

Alternatively if you get one cut forum member "IAmOrion" in Cambridge can code it for you for beer money.

Otherwise there is a firm called "bmkeys" in East London that cut and code keys.

Then there is Mike in Cheshire who is no longer active on here, but will cut and code keys. You should find him if you search for the Zed Shed Cheshire on Facebook.

 

[gzman1]

usa here, but thanks