Complete BMW 3 button remote key for E31 through E46 and Z3
A full key with electronics, not a hollow case
Older BMW keys eventually fail inside as well as out, and at that point a shell swap cannot help. This listing is the complete answer: a 3 button remote key with the electronic boards fitted and an ID44-PCF7935 transponder chip on board, weighing about 40 grams with an uncut blade. It suits the E31, E32, E34, E36, E38, E39 and E46 along with the Z3. The compatibility test is straightforward: if your car is one of those chassis codes and your current key looks identical to the product pictured in the main image, this key is the right fit. A car logo sticker is not included. For daily drivers and weekend classics alike, a second working key is cheap insurance against the misery of a single lost key immobilising the car.
Cutting and programming are part of the job
Because this is a functioning key rather than an empty housing, two professional steps stand between delivery and daily use. The blade arrives uncut and must be shaped to your door and ignition profile, and the key then needs to be programmed to the vehicle so the immobiliser accepts the ID44 chip and the buttons talk to the central locking. An automotive locksmith can usually handle both in a single visit, and the combined cost still lands well under a dealership key replacement for these older chassis. Booking the cutting and programming together means the car only needs one visit, and most locksmiths will test every button before handing the key back.
Cheaper fixes and keys for the other car
Before committing, confirm your electronics are actually dead, because owners of later BMWs whose internals still work can rehouse them in the BMW smart key fob shell for E90 E92 E93 for far less. Buying a spare at the same time makes sense too, with the 2 pack BMW 3 button complete remote key covering both needs at once. Mixed garages are looked after through listings like the Mitsubishi MIT11R smart key fob for Lancer Outlander ASX. Match the product to the actual failure and the repair stays as cheap as it can be.
Why order the key from The Remote Factory
Sourcing a complete key for a twenty-year-old BMW locally is not always easy, which is where The Remote Factory earns its keep as an Australian-based specialist in replacement remotes and key fobs. This E-series key is dispatched within 24 hours of ordering and arrives by standard delivery in 1 to 5 working days around Australia, or 2 to 8 working days in New Zealand. Payment is straightforward, with Visa, Mastercard, American Express, PayPal, Shop Pay and Apple Pay. A 30-day return policy applies, and the support team at contact@theremotefactory.com.au can sanity-check your chassis code and key style before the locksmith gets involved.
Frequently asked questions
Does this BMW key include the electronics and transponder chip?
Yes. Unlike shell-only listings, this is a complete remote key with the electronic boards included and an ID44-PCF7935 transponder chip fitted. The blade is uncut and the unit weighs roughly 40 grams. Because everything is new, the key must be cut to your locks and programmed to your car before it will start the engine and operate the remote locking.
Which BMW models can use this complete remote key?
It is listed for the E31, E32, E34, E36, E38, E39 and E46 chassis plus the Z3. The deciding check is visual: if your car is one of those models and your current key looks identical to the key pictured in the main product image, it is compatible. If your key differs in shape or button layout, send a photo to support before ordering.
Who can cut and program this key, and is it expensive?
An automotive locksmith is the usual choice and can typically do both the blade cutting and the vehicle programming in one appointment; some auto electricians offer programming as well. Costs vary by location, but the key plus independent locksmith work generally totals far less than a dealership replacement for these older E-series cars. Ring ahead to confirm the locksmith handles BMW ID44 transponders.
Can I just move my old key's chip into this one instead of programming?
If your original electronics still function, a cheaper shell-only product is the smarter buy, since you can rehouse your existing board and chip without any programming. This complete key is intended for situations where the old electronics are lost or dead. Mixing parts between old and new keys is fiddly and unnecessary; choose the product that matches your actual failure.
- Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.