Tag: Start/Stop button

Open a Nissan or Infiniti with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open a Nissan or Infiniti with a Dead Key Fob

Retrieving the mechanical key

For a Nissan– and Infiniti-made vehicle, to remove the mechanical key, release Nissan Mechanical Keythe lock knob at the back of the Intelligent Key (remote control or ‘clicker’). Use the mechanical key in the driver’s door key cylinder to unlock the door.

And then in 2017, Infiniti introduced the QX30 AND a brand new key fob. At least to them. So, here’s the deal…

Infiniti Tapered KeyThe second key fob is the spitting image of the fob used by the Mercedes-Benz folks for years. A few old Chrysler Corp. (now FCA) vehicles use it too.

The fob (right) has a tapered tip at one end and a slide lever at the top of the key ring end (1). Slide the lever over and pull the key ring to retrieve the mechanical key.

GTR handle capAs noted, the key hole on nearly all Nissan and Infiniti models is visible at the back of the driver’s door handle, and the mechanical key can be used to unlock it. Two exceptions to this are the Nissan GT-R and the Infiniti QX80. The key hole is a bit hidden, behind the front of the driver’s door handle and a cap that must be removed.

GTR handle and keyTo access the key hole, press the rear end of the driver’s door handle to lift up the front end, just as you would normally to get inside. Note the cap shown in the image (above right, A). While holding the door handle out, use the mechanical key and turn the cap counterclockwise to remove it. Once removed, the key hole is exposed and the mechanical key can at last be used to unlock the driver’s door (above right).

QX 80 handleIn the 2025, the QX80 offered a new feature — flush door handles that extend when the key fob approaches the vehicle. If the battery in the fob is weak or dead, this will not occur. Getting to the key hole is a process similar to that for the GT-R. Press the front of the door handle inward. This rotates the rear of the handle outward (right, upper). The handle can then be pulled open. Do so as far as it will go exposing the key hole beneath the back of the handle (right, lower). You can now use the mechanical key to unlock the car.

Click here for video help with Nissan and Infiniti models and key fobs.

Models examined include 370Z, Altima, Armada, Cube, Frontier, GT-R, Juke, Kicks, Maxima, Murano, NV, Pathfinder, Quest, Rogue, Sentra, Titan, Versa, Xterra, Z, EX, FX, G, JX-35, M, Q40, Q50, Q60, Q70, QX30, QX50, QX55, QX56, QX60, QX70, and QX80.

Continue to Part II, Getting Started …

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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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2012/04/nissan-infiniti-dead-key-fob-help/

Open a Mercedes-Benz with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open a Mercedes-Benz with a Dead Key Fob

Retrieving the Mechanical Key

Mercedes key fobMercedes-Benz now features two SmartKey styles. The original and most common style is tapered, like the one shown to the right. To retrieve the mechanical key, slide the release catch found near the top of the fob in the direction of the arrow and pull the mechanical key away from the SmartKey (remote control or ‘clicker’).

There much more below and video help here

new mechanical keyNew Mercedes key fobIn 2017, a second, rounded SmartKey style was introduced in the E-Class sedan, and is shown to the right. It migrated to S-Class sedans in 2018 and is found in all 2018 E-Class models.

Look for a button on the back of the newer key fob. Push the button and pull on the key ring end to remove the mechanical key, as shown in the image to the right.

2021 Mercedes fob back2021 Mercedes key fobIn 2021, another key fob was added to the S-Class Maybach that looks similar and operates very similarly. It is a little more tapered at the key ring end. Again, push the button on the back and remove the mechanical key.

If the keyhole is visible, use the mechanical key to unlock the driver’s door. This will set off the car’s alarm.  Successfully completing the start process below will turn it off.

G-series wagons have an exposed key hole, so simply insert the mechanical key and turn, and you’re in.

However, beginning in 2015 with the S- and C-Class vehicles and extended over time to nearly all models, the keyhole is hidden beneath a cap at the end of the driver’s door handle (below right). The mechanical key will be used a lever to remove the cap to expose the key hole.

Mercedes lock coverMake sure the handle of the mechanical key is pointed away from the paint. Insert the key into the opening (black arrow) underneath the cap as far as it will go. Hold the door handle out. Pull the cap that is now on the mechanical key as straight as possible away from the vehicle until it releases.

Once removed, the key hole is visible and available to insert the key and unlock. As above, this will set off the car’s alarm, which will be taken care of when you successfully complete the start process below.

2021 Mercedes door handle The 2021 Maybach adds flush door handles. This has now been added to AMG and EQS models in 2023, EQE, E-Class, S-Class and C-Class models in 2024.

The key hole is revealed in the center of the space when the door handle is pulled open. To do this, push the front of the door handle (top image, right). The rear of the handle will pop out. Take hold of the handle and pull. Use the mechanical key in the exposed key cylinder (bottom image, right). Once again, the alarm may sound, but it will go off when the car is started.

GLC key holeFinally, the 2023 CLE Cabriolet and 2024 GLC models employ yet another method to hide the key hole. Pulling the driver’s door handle to the open position reveal the key hole underneath the back of the handle. Simply insert the key and turn and you’ll be inside. And yet again, the alarm will likely sound, but it will go off when the car is started.

Click here for video help specific to many Mercedes models and key fobs.

Important
After using the mechanical key, return it to the electronic key fob. The key fob itself may require the mechanical key to be present to operate.

Continue to Part II, Getting Started …

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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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2012/04/mercedes-dead-key-fob-help/

Open a Hyundai with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open a Hyundai with a Dead Key Fob

Hyundai flip key fobRetrieving the mechanical key

Hyundai has used a flip key key fob since 2015 and they remain in use today (2025) in some models. The mechanical key is found by pressing the chrome button on the end opposite the key ring. The mechanical key is released and remains attached to the fob.

hyundai Mechanical KeyTo use the most common Hyundai key fobs, press and hold the release button at the key ring end of the remote control or ‘clicker’ and pull the key ring to remove mechanical key. Use the key to unlock the driver’s door. They too remain in limited use today (2025).

Newer version key fobs are available that look very similar and operate in the same way, with one primary exceptions, found next.

Hyundai key fobThe exception come in the form of key fobs with the mechanical release on the back, which. Hyundai began using in 2019 (right). Push the button in order to release the mechanical key.

If a key hole is visible, use the key to unlock the driver’s door.

With the introduction of the Ionic 6 in 2022, Hyundai began 2022 Hyundai mechanical key2022 Hyundai key fobsupplying a new key fob and separate mechanical key shown to the right. This fob has spread to other models as well. To use the mechanical key, a protective cover must be removed and its handle rotated down.

In our opinion, this development is a prescription for disaster, as the mechanical keys can easily be lost or simply left behind, so by all means activate the additional unlock features described below!

Hidden Keyholes

Two Piece Door Handles

Starting with the 2014 Hyundai Genesis, (prior to the new independent Genesis line, which debuted in 2017), the manufacturer adopted the hidden keyhole Kia Keyhole Covertrick. Several other Hyundai models have been added since, namely the Santa Fe, in 2024, and Venue. These models all feature a two-piece door handle. As shown in the image to the left, press the mechanical key into the slot found under the cover at the back of the driver’s door handle (1) and pull forward and up by hand (2).

Pulling the cap while holding some upward pressure will work best. There is a black button in the slot that is being pushed up with the key in this move and the cap is immediately to move!

Hyundai hybrid door unlockA “hybrid” of this was introduced in 2020 in the Sonata. By 2024, it is found in the Elantra, Santa Cruz, and Tucson. The mechanical key is again slipped into a slot beneath the back of the door handle and pushed upwards. Now however, a small cover, seen in blue to the left, is slid to the side and out of the way. This should be done when the mechanical key is still inserted and pushed upward. The keyhole is then revealed.

2024 Kona door handleThe redesign of the Kona brings with it a new and odd door two-piece handle, as seen to the left. It still features a cap that hides the key hole, which must be removed. It looks like the others, but to get at the key hole, lift the door handle and hold it in the open position. Slip the mechanical key into the open slot in the cap from behind it and rotate the cap upwards. It will come free, exposing the key hole.

And yes one way or another you must pull a piece of your car off, but its ok! The cover will come off exposing the keyhole.

One Piece Door Handles

Santa Fe handleIn 2019, a very different hidden key hole style was introduced in the Hyundai Santa Fe (removed in 2024), the new Palisade model a year later and the Elantra in 2021. The handle for all intents and purposes is one piece, but a small piece of horizontal trim located just behind the black entry button (arrow) is removable. Pull the handle outward. This exposes another small black button just behind the handle (2, below). Look at the handle from behind to find it.

Push the button inwards using the mechanical key. This releases the trim piece that can be swung away exposing the keyhole. The key can then be turned to unlock the car. Pull the key out before opening the door to avoid damaging the door handle.

We have a video of the process on this page.

Hyundai flush handleAfterwards, the cover can be pressed back on, but your immediate concern is getting into your car.

Ionic, Ionic 5 and Ionic 6 vehicles feature a flush door handle.  A push on the front of the handle will rotate the rear part outward. Then pull the handle out as far as it will go. In all vehicles except the Nexo, the key hole is immediately visible (left). The mechanical key can be inserted and turned to unlock the vehicle.

Hyundai flush handle plugG90 key hole coverIn the Nexo, a plug protects the key hole, likely from water and debris. Use the mechanical key to pry the plug away (first image left) and then insert the key to unlock the car.

Digital Unlock Options

Genesis digital keyHyundai vehicles that include a separate mechanical key include two digital options and a facial recognition option. Digital options include a pre-registered card key and a smart phone app on a registered smart phone. The card key and app can also start the car. However, facial recognition will only open the vehicle, so the key fob, card key or smart phone app will be needed to start the car.

Place the registered smart phone or card key against the pad for two seconds to unlock the driver’s door and for four seconds to unlock all the doors.

Genesis face recognitionFacial recognition is accomplished using a camera mounted in the pillar behind the driver’s door. Again, this will only allow entry and other means will be needed to start the car, so this is of limited value.

However, given that the mechanical key is supplied separately and can be far too easily misplaced, we highly recommend following the instructions in the owner’s manual to activate both the smart phone and facial recognition features as back up entry options and to keep the card key with you at all times.

Also, check our videos for additional help.

Continue to Part II, Getting Started …

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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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2012/04/hyundai-and-kia-dead-fob-help/

Open Chevrolet Models with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open Chevrolet Models with a Dead Key Fob

Retrieving the mechanical key

GM makes three key GM Key Style 1fob (remote control or ‘clicker’) styles, and Chevrolet uses them all. To get in the vehicle when the key fob battery is dead, a mechanical key will have to retrieved from the fob and used to unlock the car.

For the rectangular style fob or transmitter press the thin button near the bottom of the transmitter (remote control or ‘clicker’) used to remove the mechanical key. Do not pull the mechanical key out without pressing the button.

GM Key Style 2In next style is a flip key, shown to the left, press the unmarked chrome button to extend the mechanical key. It remains attached to the key fob. Use the mechanical key to unlock the driver’s door.

GM Style 3The final rounded style key fob is similar to the rectangular fob, in that the mechanical key is removed from the fob for use getting into the vehicle. However, it is similar in appearance to Style 2. To remove the mechanical key, press the button on the side of the transmitter near the key ring, as shown, and pull the key out.

Getting Inside

If a key hole is visible at the back of the driver’s door handle, simply insert the mechanical and turn, and you’re in.

Beginning with the 6th generation Corvette introduced in 2005 and adding the Cadillac CTS and ELR Coupes, no external door handle is obvious, and thus no backup entrance option. See below.

Then in the 2013, the Chevrolet Impala and followed by eight additional models the by 2017, the key hole was hidden. Sadly, more and more General Motors products will likely feature this unnecessary change going forward.

GM Lock Cover RemoveChevrolet models with traditional door handles but no obvious key holes or lock cylinders, hide the key holes under a cap at the back of the driver’s door. They include the Impala, Tahoe, Suburban, Malibu, Cruze, Camaro and Volt as well as new Bolt and Blazer models. To remove the cap, pull the door handle out to the open position. Insert the key into the slot on the bottom of the cap (“3”, right).

Push it as far upwards as possible and hold that upward pressure. Then pry outward. And yes, you WILL feel like you are prying off a piece of your car! Move the cap rearward revealing the key cylinder. Now the mechanical key can be used in the cylinder. Look for a video here to help.

To replace the cap, insert the two tabs at the back of the cap between the black seal and the metal base. Pull the door handle out to the door open position and move the cap forward and press to snap it into place. You can then release the door handle.

Remember, getting in the car is most important. If you have difficulty replacing the cap, don’t. Let your dealer do it when you get a new battery for your Key FOB!

C8 Corvette lock cylinderCorvette models are a very different animals. The C6 through C8 models have  non-traditional, all electronic  locks, latches and door handles, if they can be called handles at all. The C8 does have a key cylinder, but it is found in the air inlet located on the body, behind and above the left door handle. See the image to the right. Insert the mechanical key and turn to open the car.

Coupe_flush_handleOlder C6 and C7 Corvette models, also have flush door handles (right image) with no key holes at all. They have a very different trick up their sleeves. You must use the mechanical key to open the trunk. The key hole is under the lip of the trunk lid facing the ground.

Corvette Open handleOnce the trunk is open, you will find a release handle. It is along the left wall of the trunk in the  Corvette (right).

Pull this release lever and the driver’s door will unlock, unlatch and open slightly and you’ll be in!

We have videos for the coupes here.

Related: Getting Out!

Continue to Part II, Getting Started …

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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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2012/04/general-motors-dead-fob-help/

Open a Ford with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open a Ford with a Dead Key Fob

Retrieving the mechanical key

Ford vehicles use a number of different Intelligent Access Ford fob style 1(IA) (remote control or ‘clicker’) key styles. Two of the key fobs use a sliding release on the back side to release the key. Two new key fobs use a push button to release the mechanical key, and one is much easier than the other to use. Another holds the key inside the fob itself and is really difficult to remove.

Ford Key #2To release the mechanical key blade in your IA key fob, slide the release on the back of the transmitter and pull the blade out. You can now use the mechanical key to unlock the driver’s door.

An exception is the third key fob style shown. In this case, the removable mechanical key blade is held inside the fob. Slide the release on the back of the remote control (top arrow) and pivot the cover off Ford key style 3(pull is straight up and off) to access the key blade. Its awkward and may take some practice. That mechanical key can now be used to unlock the driver’s door.

This fourth and unusual Intelligent Access key fob is found with only a handful of Ford models. The mechanical key blade is found on the back of the fob. Ford fob style 4To remove it, push the buttons on either side of the key fob.

We have not seen one of these, so it is not immediately obvious if the mechanical key stays attached to the fob, as it would appear from the image, or if it can actually be removed.

Finally, this last key fob was introduced in some Fords in 2017, and it is the simplest to use. New Ford KeyIt has a push button on the front of the mechanical key itself near the key ring space. Simply push the button and pull the mechanical key away from the IA key.

Getting Inside

In 2013, the Ford Fusion became yet another car that has the key hole hidden under a cap at the back of the driver’s door handle. The 2015 Mustang and Ford Keyhole Coverthe 2016 Edge have since been added to this list.

To remove the cap, insert the key blade into the slot on the bottom of the handle (right image, bottom arrow) and press up. While holding that upward pressure, move the cap rearward to release it. Gently remove the key while doing so. Yes, the effect is that of prying off a piece of your car but its OK and necessary!

To reinstall the cap, place it just forward of the key cylinder. While applying pressure to the cap, move it forward until it is in place. It snaps into place. Make sure the cap is properly installed by trying to move it rearward.

Remember, getting IN the car is most important. If you have difficulty replacing the cap, don’t bother. Let your dealer do it when you get a new battery for your IA Key Fob!

Look for video help here.

Expedition key holeThe Ford Expedition is updated for 2018, and features another way to hide the key hole. The door handles are a single piece. The key hole is easily exposed by simply pulling the driver’s door handle. It is seen angled outward at the back end of the handle. Insert the mechanical key and turn clockwise. Remove the key and release the handle. The door will open on the next pull. Note that the alarm will sound in a minute or so if the car is not started in time.

GT trunk unlockThe Ford GT uses all electronic locks and latches. The end result is that there is no key hole to unlock a door. So, to get in, you’ll need to open the rear hatch!

Use the mechanical key to open it. A key hole is located just above and to the right of the license plate, as depicted in the image to the right. Note that if you have the rare GT release in hatchCompetition Series GT, the key hole is on the top of the hatch.

Once the hatch is open, look for a release cable and handle located at the upper left of the storage area beneath the hatch, as seen in the image. Pull the handle to release the driver’s door.

Mach E unlock buttonThe new all electric Mustang Mach E uses electronic latches. A button above the door handle (right) is pressed and the door pops open. If the key fob is dead, the vehicle offers is no opportunity to use the mechanical key to get inside. However, the car can be accessed with an app on your smart phone or using the keyless entry code panel on the door post.

Continue to Part II, Getting Started …

——————————————————————-

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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2012/04/ford-lincoln-dead-fob-help/

Open a Chrysler, Dodge or Ram with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open a Chrysler, Dodge or Ram with a Dead Key Fob

Chrysler Key FobRetrieving the mechanical key

To remove the emergency (mechanical) key from a key fob belonging to early Chrysler or Dodge vehicle, slide the mechanical latch at the top of the back of the Key Fob (remote control or ‘clicker’) to the side and then pull the mechanical key out with your free hand.

Chrysler Key FobTwoThe Key Fobs used in models built after 2010 are sleeker and rounded (see the image to the right) but work the same way. Slide the mechanical latch at the top of the back of the Fob to the side and pull the emergency key out with your free hand.

Ram key fobEven newer models, including Ram trucks, use an updated, flatter version of the key fob. The button is on the side, as denoted by the bottom arrow. The mechanical key is removed by once again pulling on the key ring end with your free hand.

Getting Inside

In all these models, a key hole is visible at the back of the driver’s door. Simply insert the mechanical key and turn and you’re in.

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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.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2012/04/chrysler-dodge-dead-fob-help/

Open a BMW or Mini with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open a BMW or Mini with a Dead Key Fob

While a mechanical key can be used if you have the new iX or i4 all electric models, you’ll have two additional options as well .

Retrieving the Mechanical Key

bmw_keyFor your BMW or Mini, press the button on the back of the remote control (or ‘clicker’) and pull the key ring end to remove the integrated key. The integrated or mechanical key can be used to unlock the driver’s door.

In 2014, BMW and Mini both added themselves to the list of manufacturers hiding the keyhole or BMW Key #2lock cylinder, and introduced a new, slightly redesigned key fob. The button in this case, is on the side, as shown. Press it and pull the key ring end to remove the mechanical key.

The Mini key is rounder. The newest version, Mini Keyshown, has a button on the neck. Push it while pulling the key ring with your free hand to retrieve the mechanical key. On all other Mini key fobs, the button is simply on the back.

In 2015, in higher end models, BMW introduced a Display Key. The mechanical key is separate and should be carried in a wallet or purse! The Display Key itself can be recharged in the car (see the end of this page). If the Display Key goes dead and the mechanical key is not available, roadside assistance will be necessary.

i4 mechanical keyWith the latest EV line, the iX, i4 and i5 so far, come new key fobs. The i4 and i5 have a traditional looking fob, very much like the second one above. Push the button on the side and pull the key away. However, it will need to be used in a very tight space and so needs to be “undressed”. Slide the frame down the key and remove (right).

iX mechanical keyiX key fobThe iX mechanical key is behind the chrome cover on the key fob. Look for the button shown (first image). Press it and pull away the cover in the direction of the larger arrow. Then rotate the mechanical key out from the fob starting with the key’s tip (second image).

Opening Your BMW

i4 door handleThe electric models we noted above use a mechanical key for entry, as well. Lift the handle (right) of the i4 or i5 to expose the keyhole (black arrow).

In the iX, note a small door on the far right in the entry opening. Push to release it and pull  it away to expose the key hole in the same spot (right). This handle has since spread iX capthe ICE powered 7-Series and will likely find its way to other models.

Note that once the key has been used in the lock, the door used to expose the key hole is now used to open the driver’s door itself. Pull it away to the left until the door unlatches. The actual door handle will not operate.

iX key cardi4 key cardBoth handle styles also feature a proximity detection pad. It is located somewhat in the middle of the driver’s door handle on the i4 (first image) and at the front of the driver’s door handle on the iX and 7-Series (right image). It is the knurled spot seen in the image. Touch an activated key card or the back of a smart phone with the BMW app to the spot and the door will unlock.

BMW Cylinder Cover

Hiding the key hole was first seen in the X5 model in 2014 and the X1, X6 and X7 SUVs have been added since. Insert the integrated key into the opening of the driver’s door handle indicated by the arrow in the image. Press upwards and remove the cover. The cover comes off onto the key itself, and quite easily. Unlock the door using the integrated key in the now exposed door lock.

Yes, the effect is that of pulling off a piece of your car, but it is necessary to get inside! The cover can be snapped back on, but the priority now is to simply get inside your car. Check out the video here for more help.

7-Series Key Hole CapStarting 2015 in the 7-Series only, a new style hidden key hole a new cover removal process is featured. The directions from BMW are a little confusing, so do this carefully. It turns out to actually be quite simple.

7-Series Key HoleIt starts as a one-piece door handle (above) that must be pulled outward. With the handle pulled outward with your left hand, slip a finger from your right hand behind handle. Feel for a metallic release and push it outward. This will release the cap, which can be pulled away with the thumb and fingers of your right hand, exposing the key hole (right).

Again, you are removing a piece of your car. Its still ok!

Let go of the handle and use the mechanical key to unlock the door using the key cylinder now visible through the handle. Note that if you have a display key, the mechanical key is not integrated into the fob. It is supplied separately. Keep it with you at all times, or you will need roadside assistance.

540i key hole capA modified version of this was introduced in the 540i for the 2017 model year. It has since been introduced in the X5 and X7 SUVs. The same metal clip is behind what is a smaller cap. The cap is the last bit of chrome at the back of the driver’s door handle and is roughly the same size as the clip, making it easier to feel for.

540i cap removedLike the 7-Series, pull the handle out and slip a finger from your other hand behind handle. Feel for the metallic clip and give it a push. In this case, the cap will practically fly off. You are still removing a piece of your car and its still ok! Let go of the handle and use the mechanical key to unlock the door using the key cylinder that is now visible through the handle.

Mini handleOpening Your Mini

And finally, the Mini. Only the Cooper Hardtops are currently using this style, which is quite unique. A small oval-shaped cap at the rear of the handle must be removed to expose the key hole. Look for a small slot underneath the handle (arrow). Slip the mechanical key into the hole as far as it will go, which is about an inch. Nothing obvious happens, but the cap is now free to remove. Slip a fingernail anywhere in the groove and the cap will fall away. Yes, pulling off another piece of a car…

Now slip the key into the now exposed key hole and turn to unlock the car. Remove the key before pulling the handle. Pull the handle, and you’re in. There is a video here dedicated to this model.

Continue to Part II, Getting Started …

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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.

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