If you’re working on a BMW with an EWS3 immobilizer system, you might be used to using the AK90 programmer. However, there is another effective method using the Xhorse VVDI Mini Prog along with a specific adapter. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process, including how to prepare the adapter, connect the hardware, read the EEPROM, and finally program a new dealer key.
Tools used:
Xhorse Key Tool Max or Key Tool Max Pro
New key to be programmed
Step 1: Prepare the Xhorse EWS3 Adapter
When you first open the Xhorse EWS3 adapter box, the adapter is not ready to use out of the box. You will need to modify it slightly.
Break the plastic holder into two separate pieces. One piece will serve as the chip holder.
Take the small connector piece that will interface directly with the EWS chip.
Cut one side of the cable and strip the wire slightly to expose the metal.
Slide the exposed wire through the small connector piece.
Wrap the wire around the circular terminal and close the connector securely.
Pull gently to ensure the wire is held firmly in place.
Once this is done, the adapter is ready to be installed onto the EWS module.
Step 2: Connect the Adapter to the EWS Module
Follow the connection diagram shown in the Xhorse software. The key points are:
The shark (or clip) should be placed on the last leg of the chip as indicated in the diagram.
Connect the other end of the adapter to the Xhorse VVDI Mini Prog device.
Make sure all connections are secure before proceeding.
Step 3: Connect the VVDI Mini Prog and Read the EEPROM
Power on the Xhorse VVDI Mini Prog device.
On your phone or tablet, open the Xhorse app and connect to the device via Bluetooth or USB.
Navigate to:
IMMO -BMW – EWS3 – Adapter
The software will show you the exact wiring diagram again for confirmation.
Tap Continue, then tap Read to start reading the EEPROM data from the EWS module.
The reading process continues successfully. Proceed as long as data is being read.
Step 4: Save and Open the EEPROM File
Once the read is complete, save the file to your device.
Go back to the main menu and open the IMMO Data Tool.
Select:
Europe – BMW -EWS3
Load the EEPROM file you just saved.
The software will now display the key information stored in the module, including which key slots are occupied or empty.
Step 5: Program the New Dealer Key
Place the new blank key into the Xhorse Key Tool Max or Key Tool Max Pro.
In the software, choose an empty key position (for example, key 7).
Click Make Dealer Key.
If you are not using a super chip, simply tap OK when prompted.
The software will begin programming the key. After a few seconds, you should see a success message:
“Prepare dealer key success. Now the key can start the engine.”
Step 6: Test the Key in the Car
According to the tutorial, you do not need to write anything back to the EWS module. Once the key is successfully programmed as a dealer key, you can:
Insert the new key into the car’s ignition.
Turn it to the ON position once.
Turn it back off.
Start the engine immediately.
The engine should start without any issues. No further writing or synchronization is required.
