BMW iX back-up entry adds a surprise

iX back-up entry

We got our first look at a BMW iX EV in 2023, and thus our first look at the iX back-up entry process as well. This is needed if and when the battery in the key fob dies.

We wrote it up, but got an important bit wrong!

Below the iX door handle is a small door on the far right that hides the key hole (right). The door is pushed to release and pulled open to reveal the key hole, as you can see. This handle has since spread to the ICE-powered 7-Series and will likely find its way to other models.

We wrongly assumed that, once the key hole was exposed, all a driver would need to do is insert and turn the key to unlock the car. This much is actually true, but in fact, the door handle does not work! The small door itself needs to be pulled to actually open the car! See the gif running below.

We of course had to modify our BMW page, which you can see here. You’ll also find a link to our BMW video page with an updated iX video.

Smart Keys or Intelligent Keys, or Access Keys – or whatever the manufacturer of your chooses to call them – that let you into your car and start it with just a touch use up their internal batteries at alarming rates, catching busy drivers unawares – even though the car had tried to warn you.

Our goal is to help you feel safe – and keep you moving or get you moving if at all possible – rather than leave you fretting whenever your key fob stops working. The instructions for getting into and starting most keyless start cars can be found on our pages – without roadside assistance.

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Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the  use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.