donpb

So, all was well and then not the next day, or how long was the car unused?

Rustydean

Correct! All was well, car was used early in the day then parked for 3 hours, then all this! My wife reminded me that I dropped key fob on floor during the 3 hour period. Car has been down for a week now.

donpb

That matters a lot. None of those items should be that way without the key inserted. Could be a faulty ignition switch.

On another BMW I used to own, I went to lunch with a coworker one time, and after lunch, my ignition switch decided to fail.

Did you use a BMW DTC code reader or generic OBD2?

Rustydean

Generic OBD2. Wondering if I just need to bite the bullet and have it towed to shop. I just hate to spend the money when I think it's something I can fix. It's just so hard to determine the cause of it. What recognizes the key fob? The switch or...?

seanjordan20

You're having issues pointing to a module being interrupted by something. I would check fuses first then check for module damage in the trunk or DME area. Also check your FRM. Mainly if you cant find the issue visually checking the above you're going to need to take it to an Indy or dealership for diagnoses if you don't have a proper BMW scan tool. You can't work on these cars with a generic OBD2 reader when the problem is complex like yours.

Rustydean

Thanks for your input! I've visually checked the two modules within the spare tire compartment. Nothing stood out to me. What type code reader will perform the task with the ignition being OFF?

Rustydean

Sorry for my lack of knowledge but could you explain the "DME" and "FRM"?

donpb

You can just have it diagnosed and then figure out if you can fix it yourself or not. I bet the first thing he does is connect a BMW DTC code reader.

BMWs are much more complicated than you are assuming. There's lots involved with reading the key fob and then waking things up. I don't think it's the fob but if it was my car, I'd read the DTC codes. Out of desperation, you can try leaving the battery disconnected for 30-60 minutes.

donpb

Digital Motor Electronics (or ECU) and Footwell Module.

BMW DTC code reader or ISTA software can read the modules. Your car has a boat load of modules.

Rustydean

Believe me, I've never assumed this car was "simple" by any means. It's well over this country boys head, but I'm trying to learn about it.
. Could you recommend a specific BMW code reader? The Foxwell NT510 Elite seems like a good choice but I read the ignition has to be on for it to read the codes.