1998 BMW 528i will n ot start with keys. i'm thinking the Security system is messed up.

Fuse or brake switch faulty

Ignition key works the manual door lock:
You get out the original fob... pull out the (metal) key... insert it into the single lock slot under the drivers side door handle...
and twist like an old fashion key lock.





1998 bmw 528i key with dead fob Bing video

Go to BMW dealership, with all the proof of ownership papers and they will order you the correct key to start your car. You can not mess with their anti theft proofing and expect it to work. Personally I would say that I got a replacement key cut and lost the old one, thinking that the replacement key was enough to get the car working.... that way they won't laugh at you inside the dealership. You broke the RF, located inside the key cover. Now the only way to fix it is through the BMW dealership, and it is not going to be cheap. But then again, you own a BMW, not exactly a car you buy because it is easy on the pocket book. Good luck

dead battery

the motor isn't bad. it doesn't get enough use to go bad. The clip holding the cable that makes the window go up and down broke.
google: window regulator repair clip 1997 bmw 528i. 97's and 98's are similar. 99 they changed them. they all break. they all break in the same place! It's the clip. 25 bucks order a repair kit from the guy. it's the same work as buying a $150 new regulator that will break again anyway

an air lock in the system.that is what the bleeders for...

I am not familiar with this car, but most with electric locks can be unlocked the old fashioned way by placing the key in the lock and turning. Barring that, call for a wrecker or locksmith to open the car, or somehow get power to the electrical system to power the locks. If the hood is open, or openable from the outside, just use jumper cables to apply power. Perhaps you could get to the starter feed cable (or even the batter feed) from underneath the car. I hope this gives you some idea that is helpful in resolving your problem.

You can jump your 98 528i from under your hood. On top of the center of your engine there is a positive (+) sign. You have to pry the cover open and there is also a negative ground spot to the left of that. Bmw is pretty smart!

replace relays and fuses for the power seat and windows.change dash light bulbs.if bulbs are good you got wiring problem check ground wires.

If you've never replaced the timing belt or chain,That would be my first thing I'd check is the Timing belt or chai, just aline the timing marks on crankshaft and then look at the position on the distributor to see if it's pointed in the #1 firing position .