Recognizing BMW key fob

This bulletin applies to 2020 -2022 BMW vehicles. A Check Control message (CCM) may display a “Vehicle key missing” warning after the engine starts.

Motor Age Staff

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Mitchell 1

July 25, 2024

Program the vehicle using ISTA 4.31.1X or higher. Always connect a BMW-approved battery charger/power supply.

This bulletin applies to 2020 -2022 BMW vehicles. A Check Control message (CCM) may display a “Vehicle key missing” warning after the engine starts.

Several causes are possible when the key fob with a good battery is in the vehicle cabin:

- The key fob is not recognized due to unfavorable location in the vehicle interior

- Interference caused by radio antennas or high-voltage power lines

- Shielding of the key by metallic objects (mobile phone, wallet, etc.)

- Charging of mobile devices in the vehicle

- Charging of the high-voltage battery (battery electric vehicles or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles)

Program the vehicle using ISTA 4.31.1X or higher. Always connect a BMW-approved battery charger/power supply.

About the Author

Motor Age Staff

Motor Age has been publishing technical content for professional automotive technicians since 1899. Our writers have decades of experience and scores of ASE certifications, and they continue to teach new generations of technicians via classrooms all around the globe, as well as through the books and training manuals they've authored.