Beware the grey plastic (spare) key

[Fleegle]

Good evening all,

Just a heads up on the capabilities of the grey plastic spare key which usually comes with the X5. For the first time ever I have reason to use it. I only have one 'normal' remote key just now, and as my brother-in-law is using the X for a couple of weeks while I'm abroad, I thought I'd give him the plastic one. Did a quick check with it to see if it worked OK.
It will open the doors manually without a problem BUT will NOT deactivate the alarm.. so the alarm goes off when the door is opened. Similarly, it will re-lock the doors but will not activate the alarm.
I have read my manual,and on page 37 it says ' On certain national-market versions, the alarm system can only be operated by the remote control. Opening these cars with a key triggers off the alarm'.
Upshot is, the car can be opened and driven using the grey plastic key, but if the alarm (and I presume immobiliser) were previously activated by a remote key, if the plastic key is used to open the car, the alarm will go off. If the plastic key is turned to ignition position 1, the alarm is de-activated, but upon manually re-locking the car with the plastic key, the alarm does NOT re-activate. The car is therefore totally unprotected, until the locking procedure is carried out using a remote key.
I know this is a bit long-winded, but just want to alert anyone who may find themselves in a similar position. Although I'm in Ireland, my X was originally registered in the UK before being shipped over.

Fleegle.

[andym3]

The grey plastic key is not mean't to be used, it's purpose is to be used as a template for getting new key blades cut!

[Fleegle]

Fair enough, but the manual describes it as a 'spare key'...

[StumpyPete]

The grey plastic key is supposed to be used but it is not intended for regular use, that's why in the E70 they give you a special plastic device to insert it into to make it usable to start the car. The intention is that is an emergency key only. Quote from Manual:

Spare Key
Store the spare key in a safe place such as your wallet. This key is not intended for regular use. The Spare key and the integrated key fit the same locks.

[X5Sport]

It's just to be used as a 'Valet Key' if I remember correctly.

The E71 doesn't even have a valet key now. It's the proper key, or no key!!

[Fleegle]

Yes..my manual also says it can be used in eg a hotel for valet parking, as it doesn't open the glovebox. Not much use if it won't alarm the car though!