BMW Key Fob Dead: Remote Entry & Start System Failure

I had a similar issue with my 2019 BMW X7 last month. The key fob connectivity problem turned out to be more than just a battery replacement, it was a faulty antenna module and corroded wiring connections near the center console. My symptoms matched yours exactly, couldn't lock/unlock and had to use the physical key. The technician found that moisture had gotten into the antenna connection, causing intermittent signal failures between the key fob and the car's computer. The repair involved replacing the antenna module and rewiring the connection points. It wasn't a major mechanical issue, but it needed proper BMW diagnostic equipment to identify and fix correctly. They also had to reprogram the key fob to sync with the new module. Based on my experience, I'd recommend finding a shop that specializes in BMW electronics, this isn't something for a general mechanic. The antenna system is integrated with the car's security features, so you want someone who knows what they're doing.

Hey, thanks for sharing your experience! Sounds exactly like what I'm dealing with. My XM is doing the same thing with the key fob. Really helpful to know about the moisture damage and wiring issues you mentioned. Just wondering, do you remember roughly how much you ended up paying for the whole repair? Also, has everything been working smoothly since they fixed it, or have you noticed any other quirks?

Hey there! Just wanted to follow up on your question. After getting my BMW X7 fixed, everything has been working perfectly, no more key fob headaches! The repair bill came to 95 € for fixing the cable/plug connection. Turns out the bumper antenna was the culprit, but thankfully it wasn't as complicated as I initially feared. The key fob's now working like a charm, locking, unlocking, everything's back to normal. Haven't noticed any quirks or issues since the repair, which is a huge relief. Definitely less stressful than having to use the physical key all the time! I know I mentioned moisture damage in my first post, but once the mechanic got in there, it was actually just a loose connection that needed sorting out. Way simpler than the complete rewiring job I thought it might need. Got lucky there! Really glad I went with a BMW specialist for this one, they knew exactly what they were looking at and sorted it quickly. Saved me from potentially bigger headaches down the road.

Thanks for the detailed update! I actually just got mine fixed yesterday and wanted to share my experience too. The mechanic I found turned out to be great, super honest and knowledgeable. Funny enough, my issue was different from what I expected. Turns out the problem wasn't the antenna at all, there was a tiny crack in the key fob's circuit board causing the connection issues. The mechanic opened it up, repaired the board, and replaced a few internal components. Total cost was a bit less than I expected, around 75 € for parts and labor. The whole process took about two hours, and now everything's working perfectly. No more fumbling with the physical key! Really relieved it wasn't something more serious with the car's electrical system. Thanks again for your help, it gave me the push I needed to get this sorted out properly instead of just living with the problem. Definitely learned my lesson about going to specialists for these electronic issues. Sometimes paying a bit more for someone who knows what they're doing saves money in the long run!