Remote Control Key Not Working (66 200 03)

Publication date: 2006-12-01
Reference number: 66 200 03
Supersedes refnos: 66 07 06

REMOTE CONTROL KEY NOT WORKING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN

Reference Number(s): SI B 66 07 06, Date of Issue: December 2006

BMW:	All models 2000MY-On E38, E39, E46, E52, E53, E60, E65, E66, E85
GROUP:	Remote Control Systems

Superceded Bulletin(s): S.M. B66 200 03, Date of Issue: October 2003

NOTE: This Service Information bulletin supersedes S.M. B66 200 03 dated October 2003.

SUBJECT

Remote Control Key Not Working

SITUATION

The customer complains that the remote key does not lock/unlock the vehicle - the battery in the remote control is discharged.

CAUSE

Battery needs recharging
Key is defective

PROCEDURE

Analysis of remote control keys returned in warranty show that many are not defective. Only the battery needs to be recharged. Note that without use, the battery will only retain its charge for approximately 1 year. The Owners Manual advises that the key must be used at least once per year (driving for an extended period) to maintain its state of charge. In case of complaint, check with the vehicle owner if the problem key is the key regularly used, or the spare key.

If the spare key is the problem, and a short drive puts sufficient charge in the battery to make it operational again, do not replace the key, but explain to the customer that the key must be used occasionally (driving for an extended period) to maintain its charge.

If the regular key is the problem, replace the key.