Another Key Question - Getting both to work

[Old-Duckman]

OK so I've had my new BMW key for a few weeks now and I ran through the simple programing sequence and it works fine. Starts, locks, unlocks etc.

So I thought I'd bring out the old key, charge it on my toothbrush charger and try it out to make sure it works.

Well it will start the car but no locking, unlocking etc.

I ran the program routine on the old key...so now it works like it should but now the new key does not.

Long story short, the last key I run the program on locks/unlocks but the other one does not. Both will work if they were the last one programed but when one works the other doesn't.

How can I get both keys to stay programmed to lock/unlock ? I tried separating them by the length of my house plus, thinking if they were too close to each other it might be a problem...but that didn't work.

 

[Ewazix]

Key setting is a two stage process, you only do stage 2 for the second key or you will overwrite the code initiated for the first key, I think this may be what's happening.

1) Sit in car with the doors locked from the door switch. Turn the key in the ignition, on then off just once within 5 seconds
2) Take the key out of the ignition, press and hold the top button for 15 seconds during this time press the middle BMW logo button quickly 3 times within 5 seconds with the top button still held down. Release both buttons then the locking should activate signalling that the key is set.

To program the second key, don't get out or do anything else to activate the ignition or locking, just repeat stage 2 with the second key.

This worked for me when my second key went flat a few years ago, it's been fine since and I now rotate keys to keep them charged. Let us know if this cures the problem

 

[Old-Duckman]

Key setting is a two stage process, you only do stage 2 for the second key or you will overwrite the code initiated for the first key, I think this may be what's happening.

1) Sit in car with the doors locked from the door switch. Turn the key in the ignition, on then off just once within 5 seconds
2) Take the key out of the ignition, press and hold the top button for 15 seconds during this time press the middle BMW logo button quickly 3 times within 5 seconds with the top button still held down. Release both buttons then the locking should activate signalling that the key is set.

To program the second key, don't get out or do anything else to activate the ignition or locking, just repeat stage 2 with the second key.

This worked for me when my second key went flat a few years ago, it's been fine since and I now rotate keys to keep them charged. Let us know if this cures the problem

Unfortunately it didn’t work for me. I did find a similar process on “BimmerForums” but I haven’t tried it yet, if it works I’ll add it to this thread. Thanks anyway.

 

[Ewazix]

So we know you have two good keys that will respond to programming, but the second always overwrites EWS with a new code. That shouldn't be possible with the second key if you miss out step 1 and are getting it done within the time limits :scratchhead:
Also, make sure the second key is held right up near the remote receiver in the rear view mirror, and try swapping the order you programme them.

There seems to be an extra stage at point 4 on this BMW guide but since you know your process will program I can't see it being the issue https://bmw-key-replacement.com/bmw-key-programming-free-guide/bmw-remote-key-fob-programming-guide-instructions-for-bmw-diamond-key/

Very odd

 

[Old-Duckman]

https://www.youcanic.com/node/2517

Method 1 from this site worked for me. I guess timing is everything, not only in comedy but also in programming BMW keys. That part about doing the second key within 15 seconds, I think that was the key (no pun intended) in my case. Actually reading it again, the whole process has to be completed in 15 seconds.

Thanks for the replies.

 

[Ewazix]

Perseverance