security.. special key?

fins · Apr 23, 2004

I've searched this forum inside out, but couldn't exactly find the answer to my question... what is so special about new bmw keys (the ones with 'keyless enty' buttons)? someone on the forum mentioned that this key is a good security feature. so what kind of security feature is it, if any?

thnx a lot.

Big Daddy · Apr 24, 2004

I know nothing about BMW keyless entry.

codex57 · Apr 24, 2004

They have a chip in it so your car won't start without your key. Sends radio signals to the starter or something like that. Kinda like an advanced form of the starter kill on an alarm. That means to steal a BMW, you generally have to tow it away.

Just don't leave your valet key in the owner's manual bag like a lot of idiots do. Thieves often break into BMWs just to check the owners manual cuz so many people leave a spare key there.

Nataku · Apr 24, 2004

Im new to the BMW security. What is your experience with theft or break ins. I didn't get the factory alarm (pretty expensive ). I was thinking about a LoJack though it is even more. How about after market ? Any recommendations ?

Tom · Apr 24, 2004

Nataku said:

I have a Clifford alarm and I really like it. LoJack and aftermarket alarms are two different things though. If you live in a high risk area, LoJack would be a better investment.

fins · Apr 24, 2004

Nataku, from what i've learned from this forum and after doing some research it seems that LoJacks is the best option in terms of security. Also, because you have a new model of 330i you can go to your dealership and ask them to turn on the 'Visual Entry' option in your car. This will lead to flashing lights on closing/opening the car and will have the "clown nose" (under the mirror) blink, as if the alarm was activated. And if you have an extra $300 and ability to follow instructions, you can buy a 'Genuine BMW Alarm System' and follow a DYI (http://www.bmw330ci.com/DIY_Alarm.htm).

codex, that's exactly what the dealer told me when i was test driving my car. But i did an experiment: left both of my 'keyless entry' keys home and went to open the car with a spare plastic key... i was able to open the door AND start the engine. So i have two thoughts on this, either i don't have this "option" turned on in my car or there isn't much of a security in those keys. Any ideas?

theBMWenthusiast · Apr 24, 2004

codex57 said:

Jokes on them i dont even have a valet key [hihi]

anyone know how much replacement keys cost? (too lazy to ask dealership, i know some dealerships are more then others occasionally so just a general area will do too)

Big Daddy · Apr 24, 2004

Both my roadster and the 750 have the "chipped" keys, but they do not have keyless entry. Are we talking about the same thing? It is my understanding that the key contains a chip that is read by the cars computer system when inserted, the codes contained in the chip must match.

Nataku · Apr 25, 2004

Thanks, all. Cog Dei Lot, Fins. I think I will go with the Lojack and talk to my "client advisor" monday about the "Visual Entry". Perhaps, later I will consider the alarm.

codex57 · Apr 26, 2004

fins said:

All you keys have that little chip in them. That's why I made that comment about not leaving the valet or little plastic key in your glovebox. Any of the keys you get have the chip (if they have them at all). The security is a thief breaking into your car but not being able to start the car cuz he doesn't have a key. Supposedly they can't hotwire it so the only way to steal a new chipped bmw is supposedly by towing it away.

And a new key (remote one) will cost about $125 from the dealer. Yeah, I think it's a ripoff too.

fins · May 4, 2004

just an update.
i've got my 'visual entry' option enable yesterday, because i am still under warranty it was free of charge, but the service guy told me it would probably cost me about $40.
Also, on the chipped key, apparently even the plastic wallet key has a chip in it... which is good news for me

Dave8812 · May 4, 2004

Big Daddy said:

Ya, when you want to get a replacement key, you have to take it to the dealership and have them program it. We had to do that for our '01 Navigator. Each key was 45 bucks!!!

MyHarley · May 6, 2004

Before purchasing LoJack, you might to research some other services available....I have Intertrak on my 2003 330 CIC.

website: www.trackmenow.net

fins · May 8, 2004

MyHarley said:

could you explain how this system works, please? the info on the site is very limited. thnx

daihard · May 8, 2004

Big Daddy said:

The keys for the E36 have the same security feature as those for the newer models. The difference is that the newer ones also have keyless entry, which integrates nicely with a factory alarm.

krs71 · May 10, 2004

what is "visual entry" feature?

codex57 · May 10, 2004

krs71 said:

the lights flash when you lock/unlock your car.

Nataku · Jul 8, 2004

Just got my car reprogram for the "visual entry". It is good because the headlights flash when you lock and unlock the door. The clown nose blinks as if you have an alarm. I combined this will the LoJack. I think it is better than to get the alarm.

shadowfax · Jul 20, 2004

fins said:

what flashed? just the clown nose on the mirror or the side lights, fog lights, break lights... etc?

I am going to have this turned on but wasn't sure what would flash on the z4 i just purchased last week. thanks for the help.

OOPPS. didnt read who thread before posting. lol. I would like to know though if only head lights flashed or if the side blinker/break lights did as well?

codex57 · Jul 20, 2004

On my E46, the front turn signals, sidemarkers, and rear turn signals all flash. The clown nose blinks periodically like it would if there was an alarm installed.

security.. special key?

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