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HeiHuber

BMW X6 Key Fob Dead, Antenna Issues or Battery Problem?

Having troubles with my 2019 BMW X6. Key fob seems dead, can't lock/unlock remotely and need to use physical key to start the engine. Error message showing up on dash. Suspecting the bumper antenna might be faulty. Has anyone dealt with similar keyless system issues? What was the actual problem and repair solution in your case?

6 comment(s)

Alex_Schneidi

Hi there! I had a pretty similar issue with my 2017 BMW X4 last year. I've got some experience working on cars, but keyless systems aren't really my thing. My key fob suddenly stopped working too, couldn't unlock doors remotely or start the engine without using the physical key. After a frustrating week, I took it to my regular workshop. Turned out there was a loose connection in the wiring harness connecting to the antenna module. The technician had to remove some trim pieces to access and fix the faulty cable connection. Cost me 95 Euro, but it's been working perfectly since then. What's the exact error message you're getting on your dash? Also, have you tried using your spare key fob? This could help narrow down if it's a key fob issue or a car system problem. Let me know and I might be able to help more!

HeiHuber (Author)

Thanks for sharing your experience! My car only has 18472 KM on it and just had its service, so it's pretty frustrating dealing with this. I tried the spare key fob too, but same result, nothing. Getting a "Key not detected" message on the dashboard. Interesting that yours was just a wiring issue, gives me hope it's not something major. Definitely sounds similar to what I'm experiencing. Guess I'll need to get it checked by a technician too. Did your BMW warranty cover the repair by any chance?

Alex_Schneidi

Hey again! Yeah, I totally get your frustration, especially with such low mileage! Mine had around 45000 KM when this happened. Unfortunately, my warranty had just expired a couple months before the issue started (just my luck!), so I had to pay out of pocket. But since your X6 is a 2019 model and has such low mileage, it should definitely still be under warranty. I'd suggest taking it to the BMW dealer, they should cover it. And yeah, it's interesting you're getting the same "Key not detected" message I had. Since both your key fobs aren't working, I'm even more convinced it's likely a similar wiring issue like mine. These modern keyless systems are great when they work, but when there's a problem, it's usually something small like a loose connection that messes up the whole system. Quick tip though, while you're waiting to get it checked, keep the key fob really close to the start button when trying to start the car. Sometimes that helps when the antenna's acting up. That's what I did before getting mine fixed, and it worked occasionally. Let me know how it goes with the dealer!

HeiHuber (Author)

Thanks so much for all the detailed info! You're right about keeping the key fob close to the start button, I've been doing exactly that as a temporary workaround. Really relieved to hear it's probably just a wiring issue. I've booked an appointment with the dealer for next week, and they confirmed it should be covered under warranty since I'm still within the coverage period. What a relief! And thanks for the tip about the dealer, definitely better than taking it to a regular workshop since it's still under warranty. I'll update you once I get it sorted out. Really appreciate your help with this!

lmleon

Do you know where the comfort access antenna is located? Thanks in advance.

(Translated from Spanish)

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