2004, R53. Recently bought a new key from the dealership. Came cut, works the doors and will turn inside the ignition but won't turn the car on. I know i can program the key to work the doors myself, but can i program the key to start the car myself as well or is that a dealership only thing? Its the two button key fob.

 

A new key from the dealer should have a smart chip pre-coded for your car, and it should start the car immediately without further programming. You need to talk to the dealer about it.

Actually you can't for 2004 without programming through a computer. The dealer or a shop with BMW diagnostic software can program the remote lock. It is '05-'06 (3 button key) where the customer can initialize it themselves.