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EWS module faulty? Key reprogram?

I previously posted about the starting problems with my daughter's 1995

318i...turn ignition key, dash lights up as per normal, but no starter relay or solenoid "click", and starter is dead. After lots of internet research, I think the problem seems to be the EWS immobilzer, or an ignition key that has somehow lost it's code. Had the car towed to my mechanic, but he won't be able to have a look at it til a couple more days. But, I will attempt a few things with him :

  1. switch car battery with a fully charged one, just in case.

  1. try all available keys
  2. try the remote start, which is suppose to bypass the EWS...should have tried that before we had the car towed away, but we were focusing on the stupid key.
  3. if #3 above works, remove the EWS module, and clean the contacts, then re-install.
  4. take the car to dealer to have the keys reprogrammed. Maybe order a new EWS.

Talk about coincidence, I was just at the dealer a few days ago, to order a new master key for the car, as the keys we have are getting pretty worn. Should be here next week, and will be pre-programmed, I would think.

There are instructions posted for re-programming keys, but they appear to be for cars with keyless entry. My duaghter's car does not have keyless enrty, and does not have a central door lock "switch", but does have the central door locks that are activated with the door lock pull knobs.

Can't think of any reason the keys would lose their codes. I did have to change the DME for a used one, but I switched the used DME's EPROM chip with the original EPROM chip form her car. The started right off the bat, and has been working fine until this starting problem this morning.

Any help or suggestions is appreciated Thanks

Reply to
RZ
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I have a 1995 325i with a Clifford alarm/remote start. Last September, it stopped from starting just like yours and of all places after filling at gas pump.

An independent BMW specialist said the key needs to be reprogrammed to the EWS, which can only be done in the dealership. When I brought it to the dealer, he said the EWS is shot. The EWS was ordered from Germany (they are customised to your VIN). After replacement, dealer said the keys won't program anymore and need new ones. What I find hard to believe is that even my spare one which is almost new and unused is not usable. I was forced to order a new set of keys.

Some points: - Only dealerships can test EWS and program keys - Try your spare keys first, if it also doesn't work it could very well be your EWS - The first thing I did was test if the starter will crank by jumping power to it. It cranked but won't start because the EWS also cuts fuel. I knew after that that it has something to do with the EWS

Good luck. EWS is about CAN $350 and a month to order.

RZ wrote:

Reply to
bimbim

I find the above discussion somewhat interesting since I too have a 1995

325i, but I know for a fact that my car does not have EWS. I know this because I ordered and received a replacement key and the car did not require any programming to use the new key. Perhaps they cut-in the EWS in the middle of the '95 model year? Mine is VIN# FE21656.
Reply to
Fred W

The EWS I was installed beginning production date 1/94. This does not include the transponder key yet. EWS II was started on production date

1/95 and includes the transponder key in the system. I don't have my TIS/EPC right now to verify you VIN.
Reply to
bimbim

Ah, thanks. That explains it. So mine has EWS1. Just out of (further) curiosity, what value is there to EWS1 if the key is not part of the equation?

Reply to
Fred W

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