BMW iX3 Key Fob Problems: More Than Just Dead Batteries?

Hi there! I had some experience with a similar issue on my 2019 BMW iX (also have an i4). I've got some basic car maintenance experience. The symptoms were exactly like yours, keyless entry failed and got that annoying warning message. Took it to my regular workshop and turned out it was just the key fob battery. They replaced it in about 15 minutes, cost me 37 Euro. Good as new after that! Quick question though, are you still able to manually unlock the car with the physical key? Also, how long have you been getting these warnings? This info would help determine if there might be something else going on besides just a dead battery.

Thanks for sharing your experience! I went through similar key fob troubles in my 2021 iX3. Yes, I can still use the physical key to unlock it, but it's such a hassle compared to the keyless system I'm used to. Been getting these warnings for about 3 days now. Car's been solid otherwise, just had its service at 167741 KM. Going to try replacing the battery first since that seems to be the most common fix. Just wanted to make sure I wasn't missing something bigger before heading to the dealer. Thanks again for the info!

Hey again! Yeah, those symptoms definitely sound just like what I experienced, especially since you can still use the physical key. That's usually a good sign that it's just the battery. Since you mentioned your car just had its service, I really doubt there's anything major going on. My iX actually started showing those warnings about 3-4 days before the keyless system completely stopped working too. Pretty standard battery drain pattern from what I've learned. After my successful battery replacement, I haven't had any issues for months now. One tip though, when you get the battery replaced, make sure they test the key fob's functionality right there. My workshop did a quick check of all functions (lock, unlock, trunk release) before I left, which gave me peace of mind. Let me know how it goes after the battery replacement! Pretty sure that'll sort it out, but if not, give me a shout. Always happy to help a fellow BMW owner.

Thanks so much for the detailed follow-up and that great tip about testing the key fob right after replacement! Really puts my mind at ease knowing your experience was so similar. I've booked an appointment for tomorrow morning to get the battery changed. Definitely going to ask them to test all the functions before I leave, wouldn't have thought of that myself. Will probably save me a potential second trip! It's honestly such a relief to hear this is likely just a simple battery issue. Was worried it might be something more complex with the electrical system. Been driving BMWs for years and this is actually my first key fob problem, so I guess I was due for one! Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience and tips. No more awkward fumbling with the physical key after tomorrow, hopefully!