BMW iX Won't Start: Immobilizer System Nightmare

Hey there! I can relate to your situation. I had a similar issue with my 2020 BMW i4 last month. The symptoms you're describing sound exactly like what I experienced, intermittent starting problems and that annoying immobilizer light flashing. Took it to the dealer's shop and turns out the key programming was corrupted, causing communication issues between the key and the car's security system. The technician had to reprogram the key and reset the car's immobilizer system. The whole process required specialized diagnostic equipment specific to BMW's electric vehicles. This isn't a mechanical issue but rather an electronic one. While it's frustrating, it's not typically a serious problem that would cause permanent damage to your vehicle. However, it does need proper diagnosis and repair by someone who knows BMW's security systems well. Given that your iX is still quite new, I'd strongly recommend having this looked at by a certified BMW dealer, these modern electric vehicles have complex integrated systems that require specific expertise.

Thanks for sharing your experience! That's really helpful to know about the key reprogramming fix. I'm actually planning to take it to a dealer this week since it sounds similar to what you went through. Would you mind telling me roughly how much you ended up paying for the fix? Also, just curious, have you had any other electronic problems since they sorted it out?

Hey again! Great to hear back from you. You'll be happy to know that since getting my i4 fixed at the dealer, I haven't had a single issue with the immobilizer, it's been running perfectly smooth. The repair was actually quite straightforward and only cost me 45 € for the key reprogramming. It was such a relief that it wasn't anything more serious or expensive! As for other electronic quirks, nope, absolutely none since then. The car starts up perfectly every time now. Looking back, it was just that corrupted key programming causing all the drama. These modern electric BMWs are pretty solid once you get these little electronic problems sorted out. If you're headed to the dealer this week, sounds like you're making the right call. These security system issues really need proper diagnostic equipment to sort them out properly. Let us know how it goes!

Thanks for all that detailed info! Just got back from the dealer actually, and you were spot on. It was indeed a key programming issue with my iX, though my repair ended up costing a bit more, around 75 € because they had to do some additional system resets. But honestly, I'm just relieved it wasn't something major! The whole experience wasn't nearly as bad as my previous mechanic horror story. The dealer's tech team was really professional and explained everything clearly. They had it fixed within a couple of hours, and my car's running perfectly now, starts up every time without any warning lights. It's funny how something as small as corrupted programming can cause such a headache, but I'm glad I reached out here and got your advice. Really appreciate you sharing your experience, it definitely helped me feel more confident about getting it sorted at the dealer rather than trying to find a cheaper alternative. Thanks again for all your help!