Key Fob issue
 

Hi Just a quick question. I have a 3.0 2001 E53. This morning I went to my car unlocked it, got what I needed then locked it again. Went back 10 mins later and tried to unlock it, nothing it was like the fob was completely dead. pressed and pressed all three buttons to no avail. Tried it again ten minutes later and works absolutely fine. opened and closed it a few times, started the car. Every seems good. Any ideas?

Many thanks in advance.

Disruption of radio signal due to Solar Flare.

It happens. Solar radiation or not, it happens sometimes.

Keep an eye on it. There are lots of threads about FOB issues and there are some inexpensive fixes depending on the problem. Do a FOB search and see you will find some good and useful info. I had an issue about a year ago, but honestly do not remember what the problem only that I was able to fix it for a minimal cost by sending it to a guy for repair. Good luck.

You might check and see if any of your local auto parts or hardware stores have one of these Keyfob testers at the battery display.

Also search www.bmwgm5.com for problems with the GM module relays. As I recall when the GM relays go bad, the interior lights will come on, but the door(s) will not unlock.

If you have an additional keyfob you should try the other one and see what happens.

Additional keyfobs are available from dealers for around $140 if you shop it or get it from one of the online dealers selling keyfobs.

Or for MUCH less $ than that... http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...-new-keys.html
Much less.

If it's an original diamond-shaped key, it is now at least 14 years old with a non-replaceable battery. They are only designed to last about 10 years. Time for a new one.

Not worth trying to cut corners with keys.

At the end of the day you may buy 1 or 2 keys in the vehicles lifetime.

In my opinion, all the more reason to cut corners w/keys. By cutting corners, the only difference is the battery either does or does not charge by induction depending on the clone you buy. Or you can easily replace the battery like any other key fob. No way I'm paying BMW $180 (in Seattle) for a frigg'n key when for $50, I can have 2.
Again, just my opinion but there's plenty of other stuff on this vehicle I need extra money for.

You can get keyfobs for under $140.

I had this guy make 5 keys for me for 2 vehicles and program my EWS for less than $140. You couldn't tell they weren't oem from 12" away and they work just like oem. Pay more for the rechargeable battery option if you want and then exactly like oem.

I work hard for my money so I choose to shop for a deal and sometimes go outside the box to beat even that.

Some things do not benefit you to be original, (bmw cup holders as an example)

Again, just my opinion but I want to clarify that these aren't cheaply made knock-offs.

Not everyone has 3 days of down time on their vehicle. Also what happens when the EWS and key gets lost in the mail?

IMHO, just not worth the risk.

Order a new OE replacement key, shows up, starts car, program keyfob in under 1 minute, priceless.

It's an e53 X5, I wish I ONLY had 3 days of down time. LOL.

Agreed, not an option for everyone. I am however glad it's an option.

Many thanks for all the responses guys, really appreciated. I've not another problem since that one occasion so I'll see how it goes. If it rears its head again I'll look to the replacement option. Once again many thanks.

Son of a bitch... the fob that fell in the bowl of water stopped working again. Maybe it needs another swim! ;)