BMW 2001 Vehicle Owner’s PDF Manual

The key to securityYour BMW is equipped with a passive anti–theft system. This electronic immo-bilization system is designed to reduce the susceptibility of the vehicle to theft by making it impossible to start the engine using any means other than the special keys furnished with the vehicle. Your BMW center can cancel the elec-tronic system authorization for indi-vidual keys (in the event of loss, for instance). A deactivated key can no longer be used to start the engine.

How the electronics workAt the heart of this system is an elec-tronic chip that is integrated into the key. The lock mechanism itself is actu-ally a dual-function device, serving as a communications interface designed to allow the vehicle’s electronics system to maintain a continuous stream of vari-able, vehicle-specific signals with the electronic circuitry in the key. The system will not release the ignition, fuel injection and starter unless it recog-nizes an “authorized” key.

Activating it from inside does not lock the fuel filler door (see page the system is actuated from the outside, the anti-theft system is acti-vated simultaneously. Both the door locks and the safety lock buttons remain locked. The alarm system is also armed or disarmed.The central locking system unlocks automatically in the event of an acci-dent. In addition, the hazard warning flashers and interior lamps come on.

Master keys that are used repeat-edly are always ready for opera-tion since the battery in the key is charged automatically in the ignition lock as you drive.If it is no longer possible to unlock the vehicle using the remote control, the battery is discharged. Use this key while driving for an extended period in order to recharge the battery. Refer also to page To prevent unauthorized use of the remote control, surrender only the door and ignition key or the spare key (refer to page vehicle for valet parking.In the event of a system malfunction, please contact your BMW center. You can also obtain replacement keys there.

Download BMW 2001 Vehicle Owner’s PDF Manual