BMW i3 Key Fob Failure: Remote Access Dead

I had a similar problem with my 2016 BMW i8 Hybrid last winter. The key fob stopped communicating with the car, and I got the same error warnings. Initially thought it was just a dead battery in the remote, but that wasn't it. Took it to my mechanic and turned out the antenna cable connection in the front bumper had corroded and partially disconnected. The diagnostic showed the car wasn't receiving the key fob signal properly. It wasn't a major repair, just needed to clean the connection points and secure the cable properly. While they had it open, they also checked other nearby connections since these issues can spread. The whole repair was pretty straightforward, but you definitely want someone who knows BMW electronics to handle it. Those systems are quite sensitive and interconnected, especially in the hybrid models. Not a complex fix overall, but definitely something you want done right to avoid future issues. Mine's been working perfectly since then, no more manual key needed.

Thanks for sharing your experience! That's really helpful as it sounds exactly like what I'm dealing with. The corrosion issue makes a lot of sense given the symptoms. Do you remember roughly how much the repair set you back? Also, has everything been running smoothly since the fix, or have you noticed any other quirks with the key system?

Hey there! Just wanted to follow up, after my BMW i8's repair, everything has been working flawlessly. The key fob system has been perfect, no more frustrating manual key starts needed. The repair cost me 95€ to fix the faulty cable connection in the bumper antenna. Honestly, it was money well spent. The mechanic showed me the corroded parts they replaced, and it was pretty obvious why the system was acting up. Since getting it fixed, I haven't had a single issue with the key system, it's been super reliable. The car recognizes the fob immediately now, just like when it was new. It's such a relief not having to deal with that annoying problem anymore. The whole repair was straightforward and definitely worth getting done by a proper BMW specialist. Sure beats having to manually unlock and start the car every time!

Thanks again for the detailed info! I bit the bullet and took my car to a certified BMW mechanic yesterday. You were spot on, it was indeed the corroded antenna connection causing all the trouble. The repair was quick and actually cost less than I expected, around 85€. What a relief it was! The mechanic was really transparent, showed me the damaged parts, and explained everything clearly. None of that sketchy behavior I experienced with my previous mechanic. They had my car ready in just a couple of hours. Tested it this morning and the key fob's working perfectly now, no more fumbling with manual keys! The car responds instantly when I approach it, just like it used to. Really glad I didn't put this off any longer. Sometimes you just need that push from someone who's been through the same thing. Thanks for helping me make the right call on this one!