2000 BMW 5 Series Key Replacement

The 2000–2003 5 Series uses the same key setup, so everything on this page applies to those years too. The full picture is on the BMW 5 Series key guide.

2000 BMW 5 Series: key facts

Key type: Remote-head key
Push-to-start: No
Transponder chip: ID44 (PCF7935)
Programming: EEPROM
All keys lost: We can originate new keys on site

EWS system: new keys are originated from the EWS module data on the bench (AK90/Abrites EWS3-class tools) or ordered pre-cut by VIN — all-keys-lost is routine specialist work, no working key needed.

What kind of key does a 2000 BMW 5 Series use?

The 2000 5 Series uses a remote-head key. The metal blade, the transponder chip and the remote buttons are all in one fob. There is no push-to-start on this year, so the key goes into the ignition and turns.

The chip inside is an ID44 (PCF7935), and that detail is verified for this year. The car's EWS immobilizer reads the chip when you turn the key. If the chip is not recognized, the engine will not start, even when the blade turns the ignition freely. A key that only looks right will not run the car. The chip has to be coded to your car.

There is also a mechanical blade on the key, so the door and ignition can be worked by the blade alone. That matters in one common situation, covered next.

What usually goes wrong with these keys?

Three problems account for most of the calls we get on this generation of 5 Series, and each one is fixed differently.

Dead rechargeable remote battery. The buttons stop locking and unlocking, but the chip still starts the car. This is the most common one. It does not mean the key is lost, and it often does not need a whole new key.
Worn key blades and cracked shells. The HU-series blade wears with years of use, and the plastic shell can split. A worn blade can make the ignition stick or the key refuse to turn. A fresh blade and shell, with the existing electronics moved over where they are still good, is often the usually more economical route.
EWS no-start. The key turns, the starter does not crank, and the immobilizer light may act up. This points to a key-to-module sync fault. It needs a diagnostic look before anyone orders parts, because the cause may be the key, the module data, or something else.

Duplicate key or all keys lost: how does it work on this car?

For this 2000 setup, you do not need an original key to get a copy made. If you have one working key, we can duplicate from it. If you have none, that is still doable. All keys lost is possible and is ordinary specialist work on this system.

In an all-keys-lost job, we do not need a working key at all. New keys are originated from the EWS module data on the bench using EWS-class tools, or ordered pre-cut by VIN. The programming method for this year is EEPROM-based. It does not require NASTF/SDRM access. That is not a dealer-only situation on this year.

If you only have one key left, make a spare before it fails. Having a second key cut and coded is easier and usually lighter on cost than an all-keys-lost job, because the module work is not needed in the same way.

Tell us the year, model and what happened: lost, broken, dead buttons, or no-start.
We confirm the key against your VIN and look at the car or the key in person.
We cut the blade, by code or from an existing key, and prepare the ID44 transponder.
We program the key to the EWS system, using module data when no working key exists.
You test the lock, ignition, remote and start before we finish.

Locked out or need a locksmith now?

We answer around the clock, every day of the year.

Call (213) 577-1366

What affects the cost of a 2000 5 Series key?

We do not quote numbers on a web page, because the real price depends on your situation. These are the factors that move it:

Whether you have a working key. A duplicate is less involved than an all-keys-lost job.
Whether the problem is only a battery or shell, or the key itself has failed.
The condition of the blade and whether a new cut is needed.
Whether the car is where we can work on it, or has to be reached by a mobile van or towed to our Westwood storefront.
Whether the EWS module data has to be read to originate keys.
The remote itself: a plain mechanical-and-chip key costs a different amount than a full remote-head key.

One honest note: we confirm by VIN

The data for this year is verified, and the chip family has been checked against two parts sources. Even so, we confirm by VIN and in person before cutting or ordering. Cars get repaired, modules get swapped, and previous owners sometimes add aftermarket keys. Looking at your actual key and ignition is the only way to be sure which blade and remote fit.

If your car has had EWS work done in the past, tell us. It can change how we approach the job.

Why call Wilshire Lock & Key?

We have been in business since 1987, with a storefront at 10740 Wilshire Blvd in Westwood and mobile service vans. You deal with one company, not a dispatcher who hands your job to a stranger. David, the owner and lead technician, oversees the work.

California requires locksmith companies to hold a BSIS LCO license. Ask any locksmith for theirs, including us. Our phone is answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at (213) 577-1366.

For more on the model, see our 5 Series key page and the wider BMW key service overview. To describe your situation in writing, use the contact page.

Frequently asked questions

Can you make a 2000 BMW 5 Series key without the original?

Yes. This setup does not need an original key for duplication, and all keys lost is possible. We originate new keys from the EWS module data on the bench or order pre-cut keys by VIN.

What transponder chip does a 2000 5 Series use?

The verified chip family is ID44 (PCF7935). We still confirm by VIN and in person before cutting or ordering anything.

My remote buttons stopped working but the car starts. Do I need a new key?

Not necessarily. A dead rechargeable remote battery is a common cause. The chip is separate from the remote, so the car can still start. We check the battery and the key's condition first.

Is this a push-to-start car?

No. The 2000 5 Series uses a remote-head key that goes into the ignition and turns.

Does programming this key require dealer-only access?

No. The programming method for this year is EEPROM-based and does not require NASTF/SDRM access, so a specialist locksmith can handle it.

The key turns but the engine will not crank. What is wrong?

That pattern points to an EWS immobilizer sync fault between the key and the module. It needs diagnosis, because the cause could be the key or the module data.

Can you come to me, or do I have to bring the car in?

We have mobile service vans as well as a storefront at 10740 Wilshire Blvd in Westwood. Call (213) 577-1366 and we will work out which is practical for your car.

We cover all these cities

Reviewed by David, Owner & Lead Technician, Wilshire Lock & Key — in the locksmith trade since 1987.

Last updated 2026-10-11.