[Lscman]

My key needs to be replaced due to the wear on the lock button.

I can imagine it happening again as the old E39 keys have a rubber face and tend to get worn down pretty quickly.

I was told I cannot change to the new style key(plastic face), is that true?

- Kin

The old style larger U-shaped key fob can not be upgraded to the later type. Changeout would involve complex revisions to the key assembly and EWS immobilizer and key transmitter. This swap could involve DME replacement too, since it must be married to the EWS & proper vintage. Making various hardware and software vintages work together could be a problem. I should say it can not be done, unless you find a geek BMW Tech & you're willing to spend $1K-$3K in US funds for such a science experiment.

 

[Lscman]

My key needs to be replaced due to the wear on the lock button.

I can imagine it happening again as the old E39 keys have a rubber face and tend to get worn down pretty quickly.

I was told I cannot change to the new style key(plastic face), is that true?

- Kin

I should also comment that you can only get 6 add'l keys made for your car. A 7th key will require EWS replacement. As such, it would be wise to save all worn, functional keys. A person capable of working on small electical gadgets or watches might be able to transfer the guts from your old key fobs and install them in a new key fob assembly that you can buy on ebay for $25. For whatever reason, new or almost new fobs are selling on ebay every week.