I came across something to beware of with the BMW EWS immobilisers that explains the odd cases of the immobiliser chip suddenly failing to recognise a particular ignition key. Apparent if the key is left in the ignition for extended periods without the engine running the password entry for that particular keys immobiliser chip is erased.
The engine should however start if another set of keys is is used and new key entries can be created and rolling passwords synchronised.
" We're trying to plug a hole in the universe, what are you doing ?. "
(Walter Bishop Fringe TV show)