BMW iX1 Won't Start: Immobilizer System Causing Headaches

Hey there! I've got some experience with EVs and had a very similar issue with my 2021 BMW i4 (also have an iX3 in the family). The symptoms you're describing sound exactly like what I dealt with. For me, it turned out the key fob wasn't properly programmed to the car's immobilizer system. I took it to my regular workshop, and they reprogrammed the key, cost me around 45 Euro and took about an hour. Before you head to the shop though, could you tell us: Have you recently replaced the key fob battery? Are you using the original key or a replacement? Did this start happening suddenly or gradually? This would help narrow down if you're facing the same issue I had.

Thanks for sharing your experience! This sounds really similar to what I'm experiencing. I'm running at 38658 KM and just had my service last month. I'm actually using the original key fob and haven't changed its battery yet. The issue started quite suddenly, was working fine one evening, and the next morning this started happening. Definitely going to look into the key fob programming angle you mentioned. Really helpful to know about the cost and time involved too. I'll probably check with my workshop about this first before looking into other potential causes.

Hey again! Thanks for the additional info about your iX1. Yeah, the sudden onset without any battery change definitely matches what I experienced with my i4. Since you mentioned you just had service last month, I'm even more convinced it's related to the key programming. Sometimes these issues can pop up after routine maintenance if the system needs a reset. In my case, after it was fixed, I haven't had any issues for over a year now. One thing I learned, if you're having this problem, try using your spare key (if you have one) to rule out whether it's a single key issue or a system-wide thing. When I had the problem, both my keys were acting up, which helped the technician diagnose it as a system programming issue rather than a faulty key. Just keep in mind that while my fix was relatively simple, it's still best to have it checked by someone who knows these systems well. The immobilizer is pretty sophisticated in these newer BMWs, and you want someone who knows what they're doing. Let us know how it goes when you get it checked out!

Thanks so much for all the detailed follow-up! That's a really smart tip about trying the spare key, I actually have it at home and haven't thought to test it. I'll definitely give that a try before heading to the workshop. It's super reassuring to hear you haven't had any issues since getting it fixed. I've just called my workshop and managed to get an appointment for this week. Mentioned the key programming possibility to them, and they seemed to think it's a likely cause too, especially given the sudden onset. They quoted me about the same price range you mentioned, which is a relief, I was worried it might be something more serious and expensive! Really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience and troubleshooting steps. It's helped me feel much more confident about handling this issue. I'll update the thread once I get it sorted out, in case anyone else runs into similar problems with their iX1.