08 CA X5 starts without fob..
 

How is it possible that my vehicle starts without a fob present in the cabin, do all x5's do this? I can unlock and lock with the metal key and start the engine, i am starting to believe the previous owner lost a key fob inside the vehicle since I also keep getting a "remote battery discharged" error on the dash.. Any ideas?

Someone mess with the car and try too jerry-rig a remote start??? Look for hacked up wires, etc.

I would also have a very thorough look through the cabin for a errant key fob...I don't think you would get that remote battery warning if the system had been tampered with. You could try starting the car without your key fob nearby and press the seat memory button and see if the setup alters. Then use your key fob to start the car and do the same. If the result is altered positions on same button then definitely a mystery fob in there somewhere...hardly scientific but it's all I've got.

a hack install of a remote start would be 'tape the fob up under the dash, and_________'...thats what I was thinking

Too right...if it turns out to be something along those lines that'll be one for the record books. PLEASE keep us posted.

What about either checking the number of keys programmed or removing all keys and programming the two that you have? So even if there is another key somewhere, it won't do anything.

Hello, I know it's been a while since I've bumped this thread but I am STILL shocked at how this can happen, about to go to a dealer and have them figure it out but i'm thinking its gonna cost an arm and a leg + new fob with CA.

is there anyway I can figure out if a key is present in the cabin somewhere? I have searched common areas, behind nav screen/climate control unit, inside steering column, underneath seats. no key.....

also every now and then when the car is running and someone closes the door, I get a "Remote Battery Discharged" warning. I have not carried my FOB with me at all while driving, Just the blade itself for locking/unlocking.

Some diagnostic tools should tell if there is a key recognized and the number of the key.

Im shocked it has been ~9 months and you are STILL shocked.

;)

Shocking!