My key locks and unlocks the car (2004 BMW 525i) doors but I have to be very close to the car to do so. I used to be able to lock and unlock the doors to the car from across the parking lot but since I had my windshield replaced I have to literally be right next to the car to lock/unlock it. Is there anyway to reprogram this key(s) to be able to lock/unlock the car doors from further away?

Could be a few things. Do they unlock from the central locking switch in the car? Close all the doors first then push the button. Do they unlock with the key remote? Does the drivers door unlock when the key is inserted? If they don't work at all check the fuse in the trunk area on the right side. There is a panel that pulls down and reveals 5-10 fuses.

may be your key has the problem, you can ask the locksmith, they will repair your key, hope help.

At first,it seems your remote has lost its code.Try using your other keys.
Do you have all doors+hood properly closed?Does your key actually turn in door lock!

you could try re-setting the key fob/remote by re-programming it, here is how
1,unlock car as normal with the key..not remote 2,get in car and close drivers door make sure all doors closed! 3,switch ignition on then off ( do not turn it over to run) 4.remove key 5,press and hold UNLOCK button ( do not let it go) 6,press LOCK button 3 times within 10 seconds (all 3 presses) 7,release UNLOCK button you should then ( dependent on model type) either see LED flash slowly for 10 seconds, or the central locking system locks and unlocks rapidly a few times to indicate a successful reprogram of the key, hope this helps

Providing central locking works when you insert key in lock,try programming keys
Enter car make sure all doors/windows are shut
Switch ignition on and off,remove key
PRESS AND HOLD UNLOCK BUTTON ON KEY
Press lock button on key 3 times whithin 10 seconds and release unlock
Central locking will lock/unlock rapidly to confirm reset
If your key is the type with bmw logo in the middle battery replacement is not possible,as it charges as you drive

Unlock vehicle. Enter vehicle. Close driver's door. Switch ignition ON and OFF. Remove ignition key. Press and hold unlock button. Press lock button briefly 3 times within 10 seconds keeping unlock button depressed. Release unlock button. Some models: LED flashes slowly for 10 seconds. Some models: Central locking system locks and unlocks rapidly to indicate correct programming. Repeat above procedure if central locking system does not work and LED does not flash or LED flashes continuously.

Programming
When
Key added or replaced. System malfunction.
How
Obtain all keys. A maximum of 3 keys can be programmed. Close all doors and boot/tailgate. Switch ignition ON. Repeat procedure below 3 times: Within 4 seconds: Press key lock or unlock button. Within 4 seconds: Switch ignition OFF. Within 4 seconds: Switch ignition ON. Within 4 seconds: Press key lock or unlock button. System should now lock or unlock vehicle. Within 4 seconds: Press key lock or unlock button. Within 10 seconds: Press lock or unlock button of first key. System should now lock or unlock vehicle. Press lock or unlock button of second key. System should now lock or unlock vehicle. Press lock or unlock button of third key. System should now lock or unlock vehicle. Switch ignition OFF. Remove key. Check operation of all programmed keys.
NOTE: If less than 3 keys are to be programmed, remove ignition key after programming last key.

should be an emergency pull cord inside the boot

I would check the door lock actuator and the actual linkage. you need to remove the outside handle assembly for full inspection. on your model year car the linkages sometime wear out at a camon the handle that rotates the linkage. sounds really like you have worn linkage/handle.

my car is the same way, so I only use the trunk lock ........to lock/unlock vehicle.....no more problems.........