Key fob ?

[bdalameda]

A little tip. You can tape the spare key to a strip of paper or cardboard and slip it under the seat to get it close to the antenna. This way you won't have to remove the seat.

 

[skidward]

This is out of the manual for the classic. Other models may be different. If it is clicking but not turning over, it may be the starter went bad.

 

[skidward]

 

[Cruzin4abruzin]

The "doo-hickey" is the antenna which communicates between the key fob and ignition-security system.

Maybe check that the antenna and cable is connected and not pinched or damaged; you'll have to trace it out by following the cable routing..

Also, try starting off with the easy steps; replace the fob battery with a known brand i.e. DURACELL.. don't buy or use batteries purchased from AMAZON, which are most likely counterfeit or beyond their shelf life..

Agree with battery brand. Had the dealer swap batteries several times since this issue happened numerous times after I bought mine. Changed to Duracell last year and never once had an issue.

 

[BAD MIKE USA]

Tried to start this ‘21 I’m thinking about buying. Got the battery to 100% on the trickle charger. Power on and lights come on but won’t crank. The message on the dash shows a key sign with a ? Underneath it. We swapped batteries, 2032 I believe, and still same results. We also removed the seat and placed fob directly on the circle “doo hickey.” It will click but not turn over. Still has the ? Regarding the fob/key. Anyone experience something similar. I read one thread where it talks about the voltage on the fob. It also claims/recommends you use a proper BMW battery for the fob.

Tia

Did you solve this problem?

 

[DonC]

I have started my bike using the plastic key without inserting it in that ring . That would require removing the seat. I held the key up under the rear fender, in an indent nearest the ring, touch the power button, it comes on, you can then push the start button and it starts. Sounds awkward but its really pretty easy.

The manual says a dead battery electronic key or the plastic spare key must be inserted into the ring antenna to start the bike. That makes sense since there’s no electronics in the plastic spare key. When I first got my bike I tried to start it with the spare key just to make sure it worked. It wouldn’t even start if the spare was only partially inserted, only when the spare was fully inserted into the ring. If you can start your bike with the plastic spare without inserting it, I’d say there is some kind of problem with your bike and I’d have the dealer check it out the next time it’s serviced.

 

[BAD MIKE USA]

If the power comes on, then the key was recognized. If at that time the engine doesn't turn over, the battery in the bike is weak. NOT the key fob. Its not about the key fob.

 

[Cu Dubh]

I have started my bike using the plastic key without inserting it in that ring . That would require removing the seat. I held the key up under the rear fender, in an indent nearest the ring, touch the power button, it comes on, you can then push the start button and it starts. Sounds awkward but its really pretty easy.

Exactly what I have done, works fine.