Thread: Remote Central Locking Re Sync

Some info. gathered from various DIYs we created back in the old days on a different forum

To carry out this procedure you need to have one working key and one key which requires programming. Please read on if you do not have a working key as this is also covered further down. It may help sometimes to hold the key close to the rear view mirror as this is where the sensor is located in most models.

1. With both keys, get in the car and close all windows and doors.

2. Put working key into the ignition and turn to position 1 (the accessories should turn on)

3. Turn the key back to position 0 and take the key out of the ignition.

4. Using the working key, hold down the unlock button, press the BMW logo (lock button) 3 times, and release the unlock button. Doors should lock and unlock.

5. With the new key, hold down the unlock button and press the BMW logo (lock button) 3 times and let go of the unlock button. Doors should lock and unlock and you're done!!

Alternate Procedure:

1. Switch ignition on and off within 5 seconds, with all doors closed.

2. Take key out of ignition and press unlock button. Hold unlock button whilst pressing the lock button 3 times, all within 10 seconds.

3. Release unlock button.

4. The system recognises re-programming by locking and immediately unlocking the doors.

5. You have to do your other keys within 30 seconds after reprogramming your first key by following steps 2,3 & 4 only.


Alternate procedure if above doesn't work or if you do not have a working remote:

1. Turn key to position 1 five times very quickly
2. Remove key
3. Hold unlock button then press lock button 3 times, release unlock button.
4. If you have another key do the same button pressing within 30 seconds
5. Turn on ignition to finalize

Older 3 Button Key (E36, E38, E39)

Remote Key Re-Initialise - If a key fails to operate remotely, it will have to be re-initialised (all keys in sequence at the same time)

1. Get in and close all doors
2. Turn the ignition on & off quickly (no more than 5 seconds) to start the process. Next action must take place within 30 seconds
3. First key - hold down button #2 (unlock - on the bottom left with the key blade pointing up) while striking button #1 (lock - the BMW logo) three times. Release button #2. This should be confirmed by door lock operation.
4. If you have more than 1 key then you need to repeat for the other keys within 30 seconds of first or they will be rendered inactive.
5. After last key then cycle the ignition on/off to finalise the process (it is not necessary to start the engine).


One of these procedures should work

Originally Posted by rac030275

Hi,

Just thought I'd let you know my central locking is now working again!

I used the second method:

Alternate Procedure:

1. Switch ignition on and off within 5 seconds, with all doors closed.

2. Take key out of ignition and press unlock button. Hold unlock button whilst pressing the lock button 3 times, all within 10 seconds.

3. Release unlock button.

4. The system recognises re-programming by locking and immediately unlocking the doors.

5. You have to do your other keys within 30 seconds after reprogramming your first key by following steps 2,3 & 4 only.

I have been without remote central locking for approx 6 months, thanks again for the info, will be a real help with getting the kids in and out of the car. You don't really realize
how useful it is until it isn't working!

Woohoo! Good stuff

Johann