Key won't lock car

[gobble]

I misplaced the key I had been using and picked up one I haven't used for a while. The car recognizes it and the car starts with the key in my pocket. However, when I press the blue and white BMW badge on the key it won't lock the doors. Anyone know what the problem could be? I'm thinking if the battery was dead the car wouldn't start. The car is a 2006 325i.

[mryakan]

I don't think you need the battery to be charged to start the car but do need it to unlock it. If you have CA get the battery replaced, otherwise just leave it in the slot long enough and it will recharge.

[gobble]

What do you mean by CA?

[mryakan]

Comfort Access, when you can keep the key in your pocket and start the car.

[TeaRoy]

Agreed...the key FOB doesn't start the car - just the car recongnizing the key is there. However, I would think it does require some decent FOB battery power to send the signal strong enough to unlock the car.

[mryakan]

Agreed...the key FOB doesn't start the car - just the car recongnizing the key is there. However, I would think it does require some decent FOB battery power to send the signal strong enough to unlock the car.
Not necessarily, but even if that is the case, plugging the key into the slot and leaving it there for a while should charge it (I think you may need to hit the start button). Easiest way to check is for someone with CA to take out their battery from the fob and try to start the car.

[senz1]

I have noticed a similar problem. My FOB won't unlock or lock the car in shopping center and grocery store parking lots but seems to work at home. This started after I hit a large pothole. I wonder if it loosened a sensor?

[jbergum]

Just initialize the key... thats all

[senz1]

Thanks, How do you initialize the key?

[Grumpa72]

Plug the key into the car, drive it for an hour or so, and then retry the lock. There is a note in the owner's manual that the car needs to be driven with each set to charge it up, providing you don't have the CA option of course.

Gary

[Kredithai]

Or you could pull out the inner key from the main fob and manually lock the car from the door handle.

[Doctor3series]

Hey Guys, I have a problem with locks... in the past two weeks I cant UNLOCK my doors! the only way into my car is with the manual key! I have an appt at the dealer for the 23rd and until then I cant get in my car with my CA or remote OR inside the car i cant unlock with the power lock button... you can hear the doors lock but when I try and UNlock it wont! UGH! even when you pull on the passengers door inside twice it doesnt open. I cant even have anyone get in my car without climbing in thru my door... its NUTS! This is dangerous too right? Anyone know what the hell is goin on? HELP!