BMW X3 Key Symbol Issue, Quick Fix & Cost Guide

Hey there! I had a similar problem with my 2011 BMW X5 last year. I have some experience working on cars, but this was definitely beyond my DIY skills. The key symbol issue turned out to be a faulty control unit. Had to take it to a workshop, and they diagnosed it after running some tests. Ended up costing me around 1000 Euro for the replacement and programming. The X5 has been running perfectly since then. Mind sharing more details about your X3? Like the mileage and whether you've had any other electrical issues lately? Also, have you tried using your spare key? This could help narrow down if it's actually the key or something else in the system. If you need a reliable workshop recommendation, let me know what you're looking for. The BMW dealer isn't always the only option for this kind of repair.

Thanks for sharing your experience! My X3 has 184794 KM on the clock, and I just had the regular service done last month. I tried both keys actually, and neither worked, which is what made me think it might be more than just a key issue. Good point about the control unit, that would definitely explain why both keys aren't working. I was hoping it would be something simpler, but I guess I'll need to bite the bullet and get it checked by a professional. The price you mentioned for your repair gives me a rough idea of what to expect. Did you have to wait long for the parts to arrive when you got yours fixed?

Hey again! Glad I could help with the pricing info. Actually, when I got my X5 fixed, the parts situation wasn't too bad, took about 3 days for them to get the control unit. But I've heard it can vary quite a bit. The fact that both your keys aren't working definitely sounds similar to what I experienced with my control unit issue. Since you mentioned you just had regular service done, did you notice any warning lights or weird electrical behavior before this happened? With my X5, I remember the central locking started acting up a bit before the whole system failed, like sometimes it wouldn't respond to the first key press. Also, quick tip from my experience, make sure they do a full system scan when you take it in. When they fixed mine, they found a couple of other small issues that could've caused problems down the line. Better to catch everything while they're already in there. The good news is that once they replaced my control unit, I haven't had a single problem with the key system in over a year. Expensive fix, yeah, but at least it's a proper long-term solution.

Thanks so much for all the detailed info and tips! Now that you mention it, I did notice the central locking was a bit finicky last week, sometimes taking two or three clicks to work. I just brushed it off thinking the key fob battery was getting weak. That's really helpful about the full system scan too, I'll definitely request that when I take it in. Three days for parts isn't bad at all. I was worried I might be looking at weeks without my car. Really appreciate you sharing your experience with all this. While it's not great news that I'm probably looking at a similar repair cost, it's actually kind of reassuring to know this is a fixable issue with a lasting solution. I'll get it booked in tomorrow and make sure they do that full system scan you suggested. Thanks again for all your help!