Ordering new keys

[deedub 46]

How does one go about getting a new key for an older BMW? Specifically I have an 1998 E36 with one key. Looking to get a second key.

I've seen in other forums that you need to provide your VIN to a BMW dealer and they will order a coded set for the car from Germany. Apparently there is a designated set of coded keys for each car from factory. 

Is there anything else besides the VIN required?

Just wanting to see if anyone has gone through the process here in NZ (before I start making some calls/emails to a dealer here).

[deedub 46]

I should mention that I'm aware I will need to at least prove I am registered to the car. But wondering if there is something else that could be a blocker (like legal ownership - not even sure how that's done in NZ with cars that have had multiple owners).

[balancerider 788]

Someone like @promo may be able to assist? 

[Vass 889]

Dealer should be able to sort it with just the VIN code. Be prepared to fork out around $500.

I personally couldn't justify that so found a DIY solution.

AK90+ module off Aliexpress - $30
Blank key off Aliexpress - $10
Get a locksmith to cut the key - $30-50

Install the software that came with the AK90+, unbolt the EWS module from the car, an hour max fiddling around and you've coded yourself a new key for under 1/5th of the price.

1998 E36 should be EWS 2 so will be compatible. Plenty of easy to follow guides out there. Turned out a much easier process than I had feared. Just have a go.

[deedub 46]

39 minutes ago, Vass said:

Dealer should be able to sort it with just the VIN code. Be prepared to fork out around $500.

I personally couldn't justify that so found a DIY solution.

AK90+ module off Aliexpress - $30
Blank key off Aliexpress - $10
Get a locksmith to cut the key - $30-50

Install the software that came with the AK90+, unbolt the EWS module from the car, an hour max fiddling around and you've coded yourself a new key for under 1/5th of the price.

1998 E36 should be EWS 2 so will be compatible. Plenty of easy to follow guides out there. Turned out a much easier process than I had feared. Just have a go.

Nice one. Thanks. I'll look into that.

[Gaz 1063]

Remote keys for e36 are NLA. I got a non remote key for a compact last year. Cant remember how much but wasn't crazy

[Eagle 1691]

6 hours ago, deedub said:

Nice one. Thanks. I'll look into that.

Vendors on Aliexpress could cut the keys for $~20 based on photos when i did mine a couple of years ago. The Aliexpress E36 remote buttons are hit and miss if they work properly with a battery in them in my experience, but not really an issue if you just want a backup key. Once you put in the initial cost\effort and have the EWS data on file, you can write a new key yourself in less than 2 mins should if you ever need another one.