BMW Key Fob Issues, Warning Light & Entry System Problems

Hey there! I had a similar issue with my 2009 BMW 3 series diesel last year. I've got some experience working on cars, but nothing too advanced. The symptoms were exactly like yours, keyless entry stopped working and got those annoying dash warnings. Turned out it was just the battery in the key fob dying. Took it to my regular workshop, and they replaced the battery in about 15 minutes. Cost me 37 Euro including labor, which wasn't too bad. Before you jump to conclusions though, could you tell me which model of the 1 series you have and if there are any other warning lights or unusual behaviors? Just want to make sure it's the same issue and not something more complex. Quick heads up: if this is indeed just a key battery issue, you might be able to still start the car by holding the key fob directly against the steering column, there's usually a specific spot for this emergency start procedure.

Thanks for sharing your experience! My car's a 2007 BMW 1 diesel with 197091 KM on the clock. Just had it serviced last month, so everything else is running smoothly. You're right about the emergency start, I've been using that trick to get by! The warning message only shows up for the key system, no other lights or warnings on the dash. Think I might give the battery replacement a shot first since it's the cheapest option. Just hoping it's nothing more serious with the central locking system itself.

Hey again! Yeah, after reading about your mileage and the fact it was recently serviced, I'm even more convinced it's just the key battery. When I had mine replaced last year, the mechanic told me these key fob batteries typically last 3-4 years, depending on usage. And since you mentioned you can still use the emergency start procedure (just like I had to!), that's another good sign it's just the battery. I should mention though, after I got my key battery replaced, I noticed the old battery had actually caused a bit of corrosion on the contacts inside the key fob. The mechanic cleaned it up, but said if I'd waited much longer, it could've damaged the circuit board. So even though your car's running fine otherwise, I'd suggest getting that battery sorted sooner rather than later. By the way, the error code in the system should clear itself once the new battery's in. Mine did, at least. If you're handy with this sort of thing, you could even replace the battery yourself, just be careful opening the key fob. I chickened out and let the workshop handle it because I didn't want to risk breaking anything! Let us know how it goes when you get it sorted!

Thanks so much for the detailed follow-up! That's really helpful, especially the tip about potential corrosion, I had no idea that could happen. You've convinced me to get this sorted ASAP. I think I'll follow your lead and let the professionals handle it rather than risk messing up the key fob myself. The last thing I need is to break it completely! I've actually booked an appointment at my local workshop for tomorrow morning. They quoted me a similar price to what you paid, so that's reassuring. I'll definitely post an update once it's fixed. Really appreciate all your help and sharing your experience, it's put my mind at ease knowing it's likely just a simple battery issue rather than something more serious with the car itself!