Replacement key fob housing to freshen up worn key

[SepangZ4MC]

Hello,
My current key works fine. It is just worn from use and age. Are there any replacement key fob housings/shells available that I can transplant the innards to without needing to buy a whole new key with the electronics and programming?

If there's no housing options, is it possible to upgrade the key to a newer style BMW key?

[Aloyouis2]

There are all kinds of covers for BMW keys on Amazon and Ebay. Maybe that solves this?

[SepangZ4MC]

Originally Posted by Aloyouis2

There are all kinds of covers for BMW keys on Amazon and Ebay. Maybe that solves this?

No, the key's plastics look faded and the BMW logo is discolored. A cover won't fix anything. Seems like the only solution is to get a new key. I guess it's not terribly expensive ~$180. Cheaper than most new keys nowadays.

[2one3E90]

Can you just recopy the metal part of your key or you need the electronics inside it also?

[SepangZ4MC]

Everything about the key is perfectly fine. The metal shaft and electronics are functional. I was hoping to just get a replacement plastic body and transfer things over if that's possible.

[Huz-Z]

You can get a new key from a bmw dealer but not cheap - $250 and maybe a programming charge too.

[pungo]

Originally Posted by SepangZ4MC

Everything about the key is perfectly fine. The metal shaft and electronics are functional. I was hoping to just get a replacement plastic body and transfer things over if that's possible.

They sell plastic shells that clip over the existing key, though still use the existing buttons.

[SepangZ4MC]

Apparently, key shells do exist. Here's an amazon listing for one https://www.amazon.com/beler-Button-.../dp/B07FJ781BH but they are uncut. After some research, original key shells are glued shut and the key blade is molded into the shell so transferring the key blade will be pretty much impossible. What I find interesting is that the BMW emblem on the keys can be separately ordered and that tiny little piece is ~$10 (part number 66122155753).

[pungo]

Originally Posted by SepangZ4MC

After some research, original key shells are glued shut and the key blade is molded into the shell so transferring the key blade will be pretty much impossible.

I've cut them open to replace the battery so it's doable, but not trivial. With that said, I would not cut open a perfectly working key.

[JdixonC]

How did you replace the battery? Did you have to break the FOB at all to get inside?

[SepangZ4MC]

Originally Posted by JdixonC

How did you replace the battery? Did you have to break the FOB at all to get inside?

You have to cut it open

[Efthreeoh]

OP, do you have a second key that is not used or worn? If you only have one key, then you should have a spare key regardless of the condition of your daily key. You need a working key to program any new keys you buy.

[SepangZ4MC]

Originally Posted by Efthreeoh

OP, do you have a second key that is not used or worn? If you only have one key, then you should have a spare key regardless of the condition of your daily key. You need a working key to program any new keys you buy.

That's good to know since I'll probably get a new key eventually. I do have a second key in slightly better condition. Both are working so not in a huge rush.

[pokeybritches]

Great timing. Addressing my worn key fobs is next on my project list. I recently replaced both of my 996tt key housings with refreshed designs, and I’d love to do the same with the Z4.

[SepangZ4MC]

I've looked and don't think there are many options for a new or redesigned housing that fit our keys. I'd be a customer if there are new compatible key designs out there.

[CJW2OO4]

I’d love to upgrade to the F Style Fob. Has anyone done this yet?

[pungo]

Originally Posted by CJW2OO4

I’d love to upgrade to the F Style Fob. Has anyone done this yet?

My buddy did a flip key for his E46, didn't ask much about the details becuase I didn't want to do it since it's a much chunkier key fob, but for me, besides the cool factor, it's a downgrade since I carry the key in my pocket therefore smaller is better.

I use the original BMW leather holders, which are comfortable in pocket and my keys still look nearly new.