Problems with the central locking system (diversity module) in BMW – how to fix them?
BMW driver question
I bought a BMW 7 a few days ago with a non-functioning central locking system. I went to an electrician where I was told that the Diversity antenna was to blame. I purchased a new antenna and had it replaced in the rear pillar on the passenger side. According to the electrician’s assurances, the problem lies with the receiver, as the remote control is operational. Perhaps it is a Diversity scrambling issue? Please advise.
The problem was with a 2005 BMW 7 E65 with a 3.0 diesel engine, but it can happen with other models as well.
BMW 7 E65 | By Terence Ong [GFDL, CC-BY-SA-3.0 or CC BY 2.5]
Response from BM Cars service
The problem of non-functioning central locking can be caused by various damages. One of them is damage to the Diversity module (antenna amplifier), which should be coded to the body after replacement to ensure its proper operation. Similar symptoms can also be caused by damage to the lock or locks. On the E65, the locks are integrated into the housing with the actuator and, in the case of the option with door closing, also with the actuator that operates this function. Damage to one of them can effectively block the functioning of the others.
Just as often, the remote control in the key itself is damaged, which is very sensitive to mechanical damage (falls) and moisture. The life of the battery, which is charged inductively when inserted into the ignition pocket, is also limited. In keys without the comfort access option, the battery is non-replaceable (soldered onto a circuit board in the key). A good electronics technician can replace such a battery without damaging the key. Another option is to order a new key through BMW’s ASO network.
Another possibility of damage, is the failure of the body module that handles, among other functions, the central locking system. For an accurate diagnosis, it is necessary to perform a full computer diagnostics of the vehicle.
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BMW 7 keys | By Hugo venter [CC BY-SA 3.0]
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