BMW ZKE Remote Coding

Remote coding in ZKE modules does not require diagnostic tool.

The procedure works on both new (virgin) and old (used) transmitters. The procedure is the same for the newer diamond shape keys, just remember that Button 1 is the unlock button (the button closest to the key blade) and Button 2 is the lock button (center button with the BMW logo).

Please have all the keys with you when doing the remote teaching procedure. Keys not synced will be forgotten by the car and the remote will no longer work! This procedure codes the remote keys only and does not affect EWS immobilizer.

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  1. Enter the vehicle and close the doors
  2. Turn the ignition key briefly (max.5 seconds) to position 1 in the steering loc and then turn it back to positon 0. Remove the key.
  3. Press button 1 (refer to the illustration) and hold it. Maintain pressure on button 1 while rapidly pressing button 2 three times in succession within a period of 10 seconds.
  4. Release button 1, LED 3 will flash slowly fot a maximum of 10 seconds.
  5. The central locking system activates and releases all lock mechanisms in rapid succession to indicate that the initialization procedure has been successfully completed.

If the LED does not flash or the central locking system fails to respond, you must repeat the initialization procedure.
If you possess additional transmitters for your vehicle (up to a maximum of four units), you must now initialize these as well. Be sure that no more than 30 seconds is allowed to elapse between the individual initialization procedures. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for each of transmitters when doing this. The central locking system will confirm every initialization procedure as described in step 5.

Frequently asked questions

  • When the procedure says to close the doors it just means the passenger compartment doors. It does not mean the hood, trunk or convertible top.
  • Position 1 in the steering lock is the Accessory position, but, Position 2, the ON position, also works.
  • Step 3 says rapidly pressing button 2 three times in succession. It doesn't have to be done rapidly. 1-2 seconds between presses is fine. Step 3 just needs to be completed within 10 seconds.
  • Diamond shape keys do not have an LED so disregard this part of Step 4.
  • The order in which the keys are initialized is not critical. If they are not initialized in the same order as they were originally the key memory functions will not be assigned to the correct key. Try repeating the whole resync procedure, but, sync the keys in a different order.