BMW i4 Remote Start Failure: Key Fob Mystery Solved

Hey there! I have some experience with car electronics as a hobby mechanic. Had a similar issue with my 2021 BMW iX3 last summer (I also own an i3). The remote locking system went completely crazy, and I couldn't start the car without physically inserting the key. Took it to my regular workshop, and they diagnosed it as a faulty cable connection to the antenna module. The repair was pretty straightforward, they had to replace some wiring and a connector. Cost me 95 Euro and it's been working perfectly since then. Before jumping to conclusions though, what's the exact error code you're getting? Also, have you noticed if this happens more frequently in certain conditions (like after rain or in cold weather)? This info would help determine if you're dealing with the same issue I had. In my case, it was definitely worth getting it checked professionally since these modern EVs have pretty complex electronic systems. Let me know the details, and I might be able to share more specific insights!

Thanks for sharing your experience! My latest service was just 2 weeks ago at 174,637 KM, and this issue started happening right after. The error code I'm getting is "Key not detected" on the display, and it's happening consistently regardless of weather conditions. Interesting that you mention the antenna module, my car also makes this weird beeping sound when I try to unlock it remotely, which it never did before. I'm starting to think maybe something got disconnected during the service. I'll get it checked out at the workshop, hopefully it's just a simple wiring issue like yours. These electric systems can be tricky sometimes, even in newer models like ours.

Hey again! Yeah, that definitely sounds similar to what I experienced with my iX3. When you mentioned the beeping sound and the timing after the service, it immediately clicked, I had that exact same beeping issue too, which I forgot to mention in my first reply. You know what's really interesting? My problem also started right after a routine service (mine was at around 165,000 KM). I reckon they might have accidentally disturbed some connections while doing other work. These modern BMWs are pretty sensitive when it comes to their electronics. Since you're getting the same "Key not detected" error that I had, I'm even more convinced it's related to the antenna module or its wiring. In my case, they found that one of the connectors had worked itself loose during the service, apparently, they had to remove some panels to access other parts and didn't secure everything quite right when putting it back together. I'd definitely recommend going back to where you had your service done and having them check it out. Since it started right after their work, they might even sort it for free, that's what my workshop did when I pointed out the timing. Just make sure they specifically check those antenna connections, sometimes they'll try to diagnose everything else first when the answer is actually pretty simple. Let me know how it goes, curious to hear if it's the same issue I had!

This is super helpful, thanks! You're probably right about something getting disturbed during the service. I've just called the workshop and mentioned everything you've said about the antenna module and loose connections. They've agreed to check it out tomorrow at no cost since it started right after their service. It's really reassuring to hear someone else had the same experience and got it sorted easily. I was worried it might be something major with the car's computer system. I'll definitely ask them to check those specific connections you mentioned first before they start looking into other possible causes. I'll update you once it's fixed. Thanks again for taking the time to share your experience, it's helped me narrow down the problem and saved me from unnecessary worrying about my i4!