[Stant_MacK]

My X3 key died last week. I only have one as I bought the car used and it only came with one key.

Thankfully, I can start the car by touching the steering column with the key.

The dealership tested the key and tell me and that both the key AND the controller need replaced. This seems highly unlikely that both would go on the same day.

I am hoping not to have to pay $1200 CDN for a single key reprogram and new controller.

I was thinking of taking the key apart to look at the circuit board. Maybe the battery is not connecting or something very obvious. But can only seem to access the battery side of the key.

Does this sound familiar to anyone and does anyone have some suggestions?

[Qsilver7]

Perhaps I missed it...but does your remote have a replaceable battery? If it does, have you replaced the battery? The battery inside the remote is only used to power the features for central locking/unlocking and comfort access (if so equipped). It is used to send the 315 MHz RF signal to the various FZV & CA aerials around the vehicle.

The starting feature of the remote DOES NOT require the battery inside the remote. Starting of vehicle with the remote fob is done through induction...which is why the vehicle starts when you place the remote next to the Ring Aerial in the steering column...the transponder is powered and begins to communicate with the other modules that are in the starting sequence.