BMW X7 Won't Start, Immobilizer System Acting Up

Hey there! I have some experience working on cars. Had a similar issue with my 2021 BMW X5 last year. Also struggled with the immobilizer system, and that flashing light was driving me nuts! Took it to my regular workshop and turns out the key needed reprogramming. The whole thing cost me 45 Euro and took about an hour to fix. Before I share more specifics, could you tell me if you're using the original key or a spare? Also, have you had any recent battery issues or electrical work done? These details would help me understand if you're facing the exact same problem I had with mine. For what it's worth, my has a BMW X3 and he's never had this issue, so it might be model-specific. Let me know those details and I'll try to help further!

Thanks for sharing your experience! I've got the same issue with my X7 (73472 KM on the odometer). I'm actually using the original key, and funny enough, I did have the battery replaced about two weeks ago at my latest service. The timing of this issue starting right after the battery work makes me think there might be a connection there. The dealer didn't mention anything about key reprogramming when they did the battery swap, though. Maybe they should have? The price you mentioned for the fix sounds way better than what I was worried it might cost. Did you need to leave your car at the workshop for that hour, or was it a quick fix while you waited?

Hey again! Ah, now that you mention the recent battery replacement, I'm even more convinced it's the same issue I had! When they replaced my battery, they should've definitely reprogrammed the key, it's actually a pretty standard procedure with BMWs. The immobilizer system can get a bit confused after a battery swap if the key isn't reprogrammed properly. In my case, I was able to wait at the workshop while they fixed it. They just needed my key for about an hour to sync it back up with the car's computer system. Super straightforward process, really. Nothing major needed to be replaced or anything like that. Quick tip though, make sure you go to a shop that's familiar with BMW's security systems. My regular mechanic actually had to refer me to a specialist because they didn't have the right diagnostic equipment. But honestly, any decent BMW specialist should be able to sort this out pretty quickly. Given that your issue started right after the battery replacement, I'd bet good money this is exactly what's going on with your X7 too. Maybe give your dealer a call and mention this specifically, they might even do it for free since it should've been part of the battery replacement service. Let me know how it goes! Interested to hear if it's the same fix for you.

Thanks so much for all this detailed info! Actually feeling pretty relieved now. I just called my dealer and explained everything, mentioning what you said about the key reprogramming after battery replacement. They admitted they should've done this as part of the service and agreed to fix it free of charge! Got an appointment for tomorrow morning, and they said I can wait while they do it. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience, saved me a lot of worry and probably some money too! Will definitely keep this in mind for future battery replacements. It's crazy how something as simple as a key reprogramming can cause such a headache when you don't know what's going on. Thanks again for your help!