Controls and features -> Keys for Your BMW Z8 Roadster First Generation (2000-2003)

30nKeys  
2 Spare key for storage in a safe place,  
such as in your wallet. This master  
key is not intended for continuous  
use  
Replacement keys  
Replacement keys are available exclu-  
sively through your BMW center. Your  
BMW center is obligated to ensure that  
a person requesting a key is authorized  
to do so, since the keys are an integral  
element of the security system (refer to  
"Electronic vehicle immobilizer" in the  
following columns).  
3 Door and ignition key  
The lock for the glove compartment  
cannot be operated with this key.  
This is recommended for valet  
parking, etc.  
There is a key case available for using  
your master key on a regular basis.  
If possible, take all of the master  
keys that belong to the vehicle  
with you when you pick up your  
replacement key.  
1 The Key Memory functions are stored  
in the remote-control key, refer to  
page 49  
Whenever you receive a new replace-  
ment key, turn it once to position 2 in  
the ignition lock (ignition switched on)  
and then back, so that the electronic  
vehicle immobilizer can initialize the  
new key.<  
You can mark individual keys for  
subsequent identification by apply-  
ingh the colored decals that you  
received when accepting delivery of  
your vehicle  
There is an extended-life battery  
in every master key that is  
charged automatically in the steering  
lock every time you drive.  
For this reason, if you have a master  
key that is not in regular use, use that  
key approximately once every year  
while driving for an extended period to  
charge the battery. Also refer to  
page 33.<  
Electronic vehicle immobilizer  
31n  
Advanced electronics in action  
At the heart of this system is an elec-  
tronic chip that is integrated into the  
key. The lock mechanism itself is actu-  
ally a dual-function device, simulta-  
neously serving as a communications  
interface designed to allow the security  
system to maintain a continuous stream  
of variable, vehicle-specific signals with  
the electronic circuitry in the key. The  
system will release the ignition, elec-  
trical steering lock, fuel injection and  
starter for use only if it detects an  
"authorized" key.  
The key to security  
The electronic vehicle immobilizer  
reduces your BMW's susceptibility to  
theft by rendering it impossible to start  
the engine using any means other than  
the car's own individual keys. The  
system operates automatically, with no  
action or intervention on your part. Your  
BMW center can cancel the system  
authorization for individual keys (for  
instance, if a key is lost). A deactivated  
key can no longer be used to start the  
engine.  
Exposure to external force can  
damage the key's integrated elec-  
tronic circuitry and render it inoperative.  
A damaged key can no longer be used  
to start the engine or release the  
steering lock.<