ditka550

Hey guys! New to the forum here. Just picked up my 2008 550i w/M-Tech, Cold Weather, Navi, A/T, etc. and I cant tell you how nice is it to be back behind the wheel of a Bimmer! I previously owned a 1998 540i before having to give it up for a Nissan Maxima (family and gas reasons) for several years.

The car only came with one remote and has the comfort access system. BMW told me @ $325.00 for a new key including programming. Just wanted to see if there were any cheaper alternatives that anyone knew of.

First mods..... tinted side turn signals, Black grilles, K&N and perhaps a Dinan Stage 1 ecm upgrade.

Already used this post to reset the throttle sensor and the car became much easier to drive, so thanks for that already!

KLR4LIFE

We have the same car and it's a blast to drive. I believe your best bet is to go with the dealer. If you buy a used key i believe only the dealer can program it and im not sure if the dealer will program a used key. Mine can with 2 keys and a black valet key. Since you have confort access you will want the second key for your spouse to use and it saves your settings on your key and the other persons settigns on the other key which is cool. You wont have to adjust the seat, mirrors etc... everytime a different driver gets in.

Also get some extra batteries for your fob they usually go dead in about a year. All you have to do is remove the key from the fob and open the back cover from the remote and replace the battery with a new one i believe the model is 2032, i bought a bunch off Amazon cheap.

baveagle

$325 is as good as it gets. These fobs are VIN based and only available through BMW and come straight from the mothership in Bavaria. Actually, no programing as required. When you order, you need proof of ownership.

ditka550

Thanks Baveagle and KLR4life. I guess its off to the dealer! Just got my smoked side turn signal lights and installed....much nicer than the factory lenses!