BMW Z4 Immobilizer Glitch Causing No-Start Issues

Hey there! I've got some experience with cars and had a similar issue with my 2021 BMW M4. The symptoms were exactly the same, flashing immobilizer light and engine troubles. Took it to my regular workshop and turned out it was just incorrect key programming. Fixed it in about an hour, cost me 45 Euro. Pretty straightforward job once they figured out the problem. Before jumping to conclusions though, what error codes did you get? Also, have you had any recent work done on the car or battery replacement? These details would help narrow down if it's the same issue I had. If it is similar, it's usually just a quick programming fix at a workshop with the right diagnostic tools. Better get it checked soon though, don't want to risk getting stranded somewhere!

Thanks for sharing your experience! My Z4 has been well maintained with the latest service done just 2 weeks ago at 51849 KM. Got error code P1260, which points to the immobilizer system. Haven't had any recent battery work done, but I noticed the issue started right after I accidentally dropped my key fob pretty hard. Really hoping it's just a programming issue like yours was. It's super frustrating when it happens, especially since everything else in the car works perfectly fine. Think I'll take it to a workshop tomorrow and have them check the key programming first. Fingers crossed it's a quick fix!

Hey again! Just wanted to follow up since I had the exact same experience with my M4. After you mentioned dropping your key fob, it definitely sounds like what happened to me. The P1260 code is the same one I got too! You know what's funny? I actually damaged my key fob too, in my case, I accidentally put it through the washing machine (not my finest moment). The programming got messed up, but the physical key was fine. Those key fobs are pretty sensitive to impacts and water damage. Since you're heading to the workshop tomorrow, here's a tip: ask them to check the key's transponder chip too. In my case, they found that while the physical key was okay, the transponder needed some attention. The whole thing took about an hour to fix, and I haven't had any issues since then. By the way, has your car done anything weird like starting and then dying after a few seconds? That's exactly what mine did before I got it fixed. If it's the same issue, you should be back on the road pretty quickly. Let me know how it goes!

Thanks for all the detailed info and tips! You were spot on about the symptoms, my car does exactly that start-and-die thing. Just got back from the workshop, and guess what? It was definitely the key fob issue from the drop. The transponder chip got slightly displaced, affecting the programming. The mechanic sorted it out in about 45 minutes, reprogrammed the key and secured the chip properly. Cost was pretty reasonable too, just like you said. Car's running perfectly now, no more flashing lights or starting problems. Really glad I didn't have to replace the entire key fob! Thanks again for sharing your washing machine story, made me feel better about dropping mine! At least these things are fixable. Definitely learned to be more careful with the key fob from now on. What a relief it was such a simple fix!