central locking key transmitter

[Dado]

Hi everyone
Central locking via push button on key has stopped working, still works via door lock but no response when buttons on key pressed.
Have replaced batteries in both keys still no response from either one, am guessing something to do with the CL gizmo in the interior mirror, anyone had experience of this problem.
It was a sudden stop too, worked fine for several times but, got home and not working, any clue would be helpful.
Cheers Dave

 

[colb]

Both keys need syncing since the batteries have been changed, there are a few methods of doing this if one dosn't work try the next method untill you get a working key then immediately do the second key as per the instructions

BMW Z4 - Key Remote Programming

Three methods to try:

Method 1:

1. Working from within the vehicle and with the doors shut

2. Turn ignition to position 1 and back to off within 5 seconds.

3. Remove the key from ignition and press and hold the unlock button for 15 seconds during this time press the key lock button 3 times within 5 seconds.

4. Release both buttons.

5. Doors will lock and unlock to show correct programming has occurred.



Method 2:

To do this procedure you need to have one working key and one key that needs to be programmed.

1) Get in and close all doors.

2) Turn on the ignition and turn off quickly. (No more than 5 seconds) to start the process. Next action must take place within 30 seconds.

3) Remove the 1st key.

4) Hold the key up near your left shoulder (this is so it is closer to the remote receiver antenna.

5) Hold down the unlock button and press the lock button 3 times. Release the unlock button and the doors lock which confirms the operation.

6) Quickly repeat steps 4 & 5 for key #2 etc.

If it does not work, try doing the keys in opposite order. Key 2 then key 1, vs 1 then 2.



Method 3:

Alternate if you do not have a working remote

1. Turn key to position 1 five times very quickly 2. Remove key 3. Hold unlock button then press lock button 3 times, release unlock button.

4. If you have another key do the same button pressing within 30 seconds 5. Turn on ignition to finalise.

PLEASE NOTE: This programming procedure programs the remote control part of the key. Any transponder chip for the immobiliser (starting of car) will not be programmed and must be done by a specialist.

 

[NZ00Z3]

I would have a go at programming the keys to the car's central locking. Sometimes they just loose the programming. Do a search for "BMW programming keys" There are various threads and videos showing you how to do it.

On the rare chance that you have a Japanese Import Z3, tell me and I'll give you the programming instructions for the Infra-Red remote that these cars use. All most all UK Z3's use the RF system that is described in all the threads and videos that your search will find.

 

[Dado]

Thanks guys, I should have said that I changed the battery because I assumed that was the problem, when it still didnt work I tried the other key and went through the same thought process, when that didnt work I checked the voltage on both used batteries and they were both at 2. 8 volts on 3 volt batteries so dont think that was the issue, will try the sync process tomorrow but as keys didnt work with original batteries would the pairing just drop out randomly do you think?

 

[Dado]

Went to program keys today unlocked via door handle with key, got in and tried starting, fired up as normal switched off and tried key buttons, locked, unlocked fine, tried second key same result, seems to have reprogrammed itself just by running ignition.
That's of course assuming its not an intermittent fault, practised for a long time to get this pessimistic.....
Cheers all

 

[vetinari]

Welcome to the wacky world of BMW remote locking I I have had every combination of ;
No remote locking , car battery was too low ;
Reluctant locking at vey short range ; The key batteries needed to be changed andr keys synchronised
Both keys worked for a brief period , then both stopped working
At present I can resychronise either one of my two keys , but the other one refuses to work .
I give up , who needs to remote lock a convertible which is driven top down all the time ??
Vetinari

 

[Jim Ramsay]

I would have a go at programming the keys to the car's central locking. Sometimes they just loose the programming. Do a search for "BMW programming keys" There are various threads and videos showing you how to do it.

On the rare chance that you have a Japanese Import Z3, tell me and I'll give you the programming instructions for the Infra-Red remote that these cars use. All most all UK Z3's use the RF system that is described in all the threads and videos that your search will find.

 

[Jim Ramsay]

Hi, came across your post on central locking. I have a Japanese import here in UK and am unable to sync the key. can you provide instructions. C.entral locking works when operated from boot or drivers door but not from key fob which has been tested and is sending out a signal. Even replaced receiver unit in mirror so now at a loss at what to try next. Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks in anticipation.

 

[NZ00Z3]

Hi Jim,

If your Jap import Z3 has the 2 button key, little red light and what looks like a clear diode next to the key shaft, then you have an Infra Red key. You have to point the key a the clown nose on the bottom of the mirror for it to talk to the car. It's not like the Radio Frequency keys, where once you are in range, you can push the key and have it pointing anywhere. The IR keys are line of sight. This is important when you go to synch the key to the car. Point it at the mirror.

Here are the instructions.

 

[Dado]

Hi all
Having started this, maybe I should just say that there has been no problem at all with it since my last post, so kinda think it was a random issue that sorted itself and has been okay since.
Although did see on Ventinari's post that a low car battery was an issue and did wonder if that might have been the cause.
Have been going for longer runs to keep the battery charged every week, good excuse to go out anyway, even had the roof down a few times....
Cheers DD

 

[Jim Ramsay]

Hi Jim,

If your Jap import Z3 has the 2 button key, little red light and what looks like a clear diode next to the key shaft, then you have an Infra Red key. You have to point the key a the clown nose on the bottom of the mirror for it to talk to the car. It's not like the Radio Frequency keys, where once you are in range, you can push the key and have it pointing anywhere. The IR keys are line of sight. This is important when you go to synch the key to the car. Point it at the mirror.

Here are the instructions.

Hi , thanks for the instructions, I am pleased to say (after 12 months of various "vehicle lock experts" at great expense!!!!) it worked. Central locking now fully operational. The instructions I have are for a UK model so not quite the same. Cant get over the fact that I had to get the answer from NZ!!
So many thanks for resolving my problem. Just the Kilometer speedo to recalibrate in MPH now, always another job to do!

 

[Kay maany]

I would have a go at programming the keys to the car's central locking. Sometimes they just loose the programming. Do a search for "BMW programming keys" There are various threads and videos showing you how to do it.

On the rare chance that you have a Japanese Import Z3, tell me and I'll give you the programming instructions for the Infra-Red remote that these cars use. All most all UK Z3's use the RF system that is described in all the threads and videos that your search will find.

Can i enlist your help with my z3 2.2i japanese import .I changed my key batteries and key no longer open the doors . I can still start the car . Ty

 

[Hwk-I-St8]

Welcome to the wacky world of BMW remote locking I I have had every combination of ;
No remote locking , car battery was too low ;
Reluctant locking at vey short range ; The key batteries needed to be changed andr keys synchronised
Both keys worked for a brief period , then both stopped working
At present I can resychronise either one of my two keys , but the other one refuses to work .
I give up , who needs to remote lock a convertible which is driven top down all the time ??
Vetinari

A valid point, but I lock mine even with the top down as it locks the trunk.