E36 Locks

[thalystgv]

I purchased my first Bmw E36 last month and i was wondering how easy is it to change the locks as the car only came with a remote for the centrol locking and just an ignition key. I want to have a key for the locks as a manual back up.
Is this easy to do and where would i get them from apart from a BMW stealer,sorry i mean dealer?

[doodlebug]

Isn't it the same key? It is on mine.

Edited by doodlebug on Wednesday 13th June 06:04

[thalystgv]

The key i got just does the ignition. So i guess the previous owner must have changed the ignition barrel as the key does not work in the driver side lock the passenger lock or the boot lock.
Does changing the locks mean messing about with the remote centrol locking system? Changing codes or the rciever?

[wiggy001]

Can't help on the lock but it could mean your car has been stolen/recovered in the past?

[Talkwrench]

You could just change the barrels but the whole door handle assembly isnt that expensive. It doesnt affect the remote or central locking.
Fairly easy to change if you know the trick of removing the outside trim. There is a little slot on the side of the door and you have to poke a hook through to release a metal slide then the trim comes off.
If youre not aware of this and decide to go ahead, then I'll post more details.

[fixedwheelnut]

Depends on how old your E36 is, from about 1996 onwards they had EWS immobilisers.

When you get a lock set the EWS control unit comes with it, that will need to be programmed and coded in line with the engine electronics to work.

You could fit the lock set except the ignition barrell and then let the dealer do the control unit and ign barrell.

[paoloh]

why not just get a key cut for the locks?????

[thalystgv]

BMW quoted me £22 for the key Plus an hour labour at £120 to take the door apart to get to the lock info. So makes the key about £142 +VAT which is out of my price range for a key.

[paoloh]

thalystgv said:

BMW quoted me £22 for the key Plus an hour labour at £120 to take the door apart to get to the lock info. So makes the key about £142 +VAT which is out of my price range for a key.

Call a mobile vehicle locksmith. £40 job done

[thalystgv]

Talkwrench can you please send me more details with regards to taking off the complete door lock assembly and fitting new locks as I have now got a set of locks minus the ignition barrel. I managed to get them for an amazing £20. Helps having a brother in law who works for a scrap yard. I dont think my Beemer has an EWS unit as it was registered in 1995.
Thanks