BMW 325i Automotive Locksmith

The BMW 325i was produced 1987–1995 and again 2001–2006. A nameplate that ran, stopped and returned is worth flagging when you call: the two runs are usually different vehicles underneath, with different key systems, and the model year decides which one you have. It is a discontinued passenger car, which mainly affects blank and fob availability rather than whether the work can be done — older platforms are frequently easier to key than new ones, not harder.

The 325i’s 1987–2006 run crosses two key generations: model years 1987–1995 predate transponder immobilizers in the US market, so a replacement there is usually a cutting job rather than a programming one; and 1996–2006 sit in the transponder era, where the key carries a chip and often a remote head, so the work is cutting and programming together. Which one applies to a particular 325i is decided by its model year and trim, not by the nameplate, so have the year ready when you call.

A BMW 325i of this age is at the point where original keys start to show wear and remote batteries have often been replaced several times. If the key has become gradually harder to turn, that is the vehicle reporting cylinder wear rather than a sudden fault.

Eligibility for the BMW 325i is confirmed against the exact model year and trim before a job is treated as scheduled, and proof of identity and vehicle ownership or written authorization is required before any key is originated or programmed.

Other BMW models from the same era

• BMW 325iC 1987–1995
• BMW 325iS 1987–1988 and again 1990–1995
• BMW 325/325eS 1986–1988
• BMW 325ix 1986 and again 1988–1991
• BMW 535i/535is 1986–1988
• BMW 750iL 1988–1999
• BMW M3 1988–1991, 1995–1999, 2001–2006, 2008–2013, 2015–2018 and again 2021–2027
• BMW M5 1988, 1991–1993, 2000–2003, 2006–2010, 2013–2023 and again 2025–2027