New Key not programming?

[Scot J]

So I bought a 540i, and the key was not working (wirelessly atleast). The seller in the US got a new key for me and when I bought it he said I just need to take the car to bmw and have it programmed (seemed legit at the time, I now know he was obviously hiding something).

Took the car in today, and he tried reprogramming the key (pressing the one button and then the other 3 times), and it didn't work. Said they'd need and hour and a half to diagnose it and it would cost $120 or so and I didnt' have time.

I figured before I take the car back I could check here and see if there are any suggestions on things to look for or check?

Thanks!

[kmoy2002]

You must reinitialize any new keys before they will work wireless. You will need to reinitialize all your key fobs

This procedure is if you have the diamond shaped key. If you don't others will chime in as I don't know how to reinitialize the older type of keys

1. Have both Master Keys available
2. Enter the vehicle and close the doors
3. Briefly (max 5 seconds) turn the ignition on and off again
4. Remove key; press and hold "unlock" button. While holding "unlock" button, rapidly press "lock" button 3 times within a period of 10 seconds.
5. Release "unlock" button. The LED flashes slowly for a maximum of 10 seconds.
6. The central locking system activates and releases all locks in rapid succession to indicate that the initialization procedure has been successful. If LED continues to flash or if the locking system fails to respond, the initialization procedure will have to be repeated.
7. To initialize additional remote control keys (make sure that no more than 30 seconds elapse between each initialization procedure) repeat steps 3 and 4.
NOTE: The ignition does not have to be cycled on/off for additional key initialization.


It sounds like your technician tried this method. Try this yourself before bringing it into the dealer. They charge a diagnostic fee no matter what. Also make sure the keys charged up a bit