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BMW R nineT Key Replacement

The R nineT has a keyed ignition with BMW's EWS immobilizer, so a replacement key must be programmed to the bike.

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  • Motorcycles and scooters only
  • We come to your bike
  • Keys cut and programmed on site
  • Proof of ownership required
Quick answerThe R nineT has a keyed ignition with BMW's EWS immobilizer, so a replacement key must be programmed to the bike. The ignition key also fits the steering lock and fuel filler cap. The bike additionally comes with a separate small key that is only used to remove the passenger seat, and it is not a spare ignition key.

BMW R nineT key quick facts

  • BMW's 2020 US manual says the R nineT comes with two ignition keys and one key for removing the passenger seat.
  • The ignition key fits the ignition and steering lock and the fuel filler cap.
  • The passenger seat is released by removing a screw with the separate motorcycle seat key.
  • The rider's seat comes off with a pull-up locking mechanism after the passenger seat is removed, not with a keyed seat lock.
  • When the immobilizer is active the dash shows the general warning light and a key symbol.

BMW R nineT key types by year

YearsModelsKey typeChipNotes
From 2014R nineT familytransponder key (EWS), keyed ignitionyesTwo ignition keys. A third, smaller key is a tool for the passenger seat screw.

Three keys in the box, two that start the bike

The R nineT causes more key confusion than most BMWs because of what comes with it. The 2020 US rider's manual says you are provided with two ignition keys and one key for removing the passenger seat. The seat key undoes a screw that holds the passenger seat, and once that is off the rider's seat lifts away with a locking mechanism you pull up. Used bikes often change hands with one ignition key and the little seat key, and the buyer assumes they have a spare. They do not.

The ignition key itself fits the ignition and steering lock and the fuel filler cap. There is no factory luggage on the same key system to worry about.

Need a key for your R nineT?

Call or text with the year and where the bike is parked.

Call (805) 429-8452Text your year, make and model

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EWS on the R nineT

The immobilizer is the same EWS used across BMW's range: a ring antenna reads the key, and the engine control unit only allows a start for a key it recognizes. If the general warning light comes on with a key symbol, the manual gives the cause as a key that is not authorized or disrupted communication between the key and the engine electronics. Its advice is to remove other ignition keys from the ring and to have a defective key replaced.

If you lose one key, BMW's manual says a dealer can disable it and that you should bring the remaining keys. New ignition keys come only through an authorized retailer, who has to check that the request is legitimate.

Custom builds and relocated ignitions

The R nineT is a popular base for customs, and relocating the ignition switch is a common change. Moving the switch does not remove the immobilizer. The key still has to be read by the ring antenna, so the antenna has to travel with the lock and stay connected. When a relocated bike shows the key symbol and will not start, the antenna and its wiring are worth checking before anyone blames the key. If you are buying a built bike, ask for both ignition keys and ask what was done with the ignition.

No working key

A dealer orders an R nineT key against the VIN after checking ownership, and the bike has to reach them. We work at the bike: a key is cut to your locks and programmed, then checked in the ignition, steering lock and fuel cap. What can be programmed on site varies by year, so tell us the exact model when you call. Have photo ID and the registration or title ready, and tell us about any ignition relocation or other electrical changes before we come out.

What to have ready

Have this ready when you call or text

  • Year, make and model of the bike
  • Where the bike is parked
  • Whether you have any working key, a broken key or a key code
  • Photo ID and registration or title (we verify ownership before making a key)

BMW R nineT key FAQ

What is the small extra key that came with my R nineT?

It is the key for removing the passenger seat. BMW's manual lists it separately from the two ignition keys, and it will not start the bike.

Does the R nineT have a chip in the key?

Yes. It uses BMW's EWS immobilizer, so a key that is only cut will turn the lock but the engine will not start.

Does the R nineT have Keyless Ride?

The 2020 US manual describes only a keyed ignition with two ignition keys. If yours is a newer model with a different name, check whether it has a key slot or a button.

Will relocating the ignition get rid of the immobilizer?

No. The engine control unit still needs to recognize a key through the ring antenna, wherever the lock is mounted.

The immobilizer system on this bike

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