BMW Won’t Start Push Button? 8 Reasons & Quick Fixes

If your BMW won’t start with the push button, check for a weak or dead key FOB battery first. To fix the issue, simply replace it with a new one. 

Also, a faulty starter pump may contribute to the problem. You can try to jumpstart the car to test the starter motor. If that doesn’t work, replace the starter motor. 

There are more reasons why your BMW won’t start push button. To learn all about them and possible solutions, continue reading the entire article.

BMW Won’t Start With Push Button: Quick Overview

Before jumping into details about each reason and solution, let’s get a quick overview of what causes BMW not to work with the push button and the possible solutions. 

Reasons	Solutions
Weak or Dead Key FOB Battery	Replace the dead battery inside the key FOB.
Faulty Starter Pump	Jumpstart the car to test the starter motor. If the engine still won’t start, replace the starter motor.
Damaged Push System	Have a professional mechanic thoroughly check the push system.
Problematic Battery	Try charging the battery using a working battery from another car. If unsuccessful, replace the battery.
Damaged Spark Plugs	Replace worn-out spark plugs.
Electronic Control Module malfunction	Reset the ECM or solve the error codes.
Blown Fuse	Replace the fuse or contact a professional
Wet Conditions	Be careful while applying cleaning products

What Is The BMW Push Button Ignition?

A push-button ignition is made to function identically to a conventional key ignition. Keyless ignition is a standard feature in all push-button start vehicles. 

The code that has been programmed into the car is stored on a chip in the key fob. When the key fob’s code is successfully scanned by the safety system, the car can start.

You can activate particular functions by swiftly pushing your push button to start without keeping it and without putting your foot down on the brake.

The fob must be within the BMW for the engine to ignite when the start button is depressed. Push-button start technology is practical and has reduced auto thefts, in addition to other useful features.

BMW Won’t Start with Push Button: Reasons And Solutions

A few different reasons can cause your BMW not to start even after pushing the push button. It is crucial to find the exact reason for the problem before you can begin to look at how to fix it.

Reason 1: Weak Or Dead Key FOB Battery

A weak or dead key fob battery is the first and most frequent reason for your BMW not starting. Unless the system recognizes the key is inside your BMW, your keyless engine will turn on. 

The battery in the key itself could be dead, which can cause the engine in your car not to start. A key fob with a dead battery is useless since the car’s system cannot recognize it.

Solution:

It is quite easy to fix this issue; all you will need to do is replace the dead battery inside your key FOB. Release the blade and remove the back cover; inside, you will see the battery. 

Simply replace this old battery with a new one. A new key fob battery is very cheap and only costs around $2

Bonus: You may also be interested in knowing the reasons for BMW navigation system problems.

Reason 2: Faulty Starter Pump

Your engine won’t start if your starting motor is damaged or malfunctioning. Try immediately jumping the car if you think the starter is the issue with it not starting. The starting motor may need to be replaced if the engine still won’t start after that.

The BMW’s battery is connected to the starting motor. They are closely related since a dead battery commonly causes a BMW starting motor failure.

Solution:

When the BMW starter motors start to malfunction, you will need to replace the starter motor. Replacement starter motors can cost anywhere from $307 to $410, and labor costs can be from $112 to $141, depending on your location.

Reason 3: Damaged Push System 

Another common reason for your BMW not starting with a push button is the whole push system can be damaged. Both the push button and the wire harness for the push button may be flawed. 

The push system may have problems if there are problems with the transmission or the brake pedal positioning switch. 

Other factors, such as a bad Neutral safety switch and a defective driving interlock release unit, may also contribute to problems with the push system.

Solution:

You will need a thorough checkup of the push system by a professional mechanic. 

The fixing process can cost anywhere from $130-$500, depending on the degree of damage.

Bonus: You may also be interested in knowing the reasons for DBC Malfunction on BMW. 

Reason 4: Problematic Battery

The battery of your BMW runs the whole electrical system of your car, which is responsible for your vehicle running perfectly. The battery is typically the issue if your lights or dashboard don’t power on. 

Moreover, no sound or light indicates a weak or damaged battery. Additionally, it won’t start the engine or operate any electrical devices if the battery is discharged enough.

Solution:

If the battery is discharged, you can try to charge the battery using a working battery from another car and see if your BMW engine starts. 

However, if it still doesn’t work, then you will need to replace the battery. A replacement battery can cost anywhere from $300-$500, depending on the car model.

Reason 5: Damaged Spark Plugs

Spark plugs tend to become damaged over time and need regular replacement. 

Poor fuel mileage, decrease in power, BMW failure to start, and engine malfunctions are typical signs of spark plug problems. 

Solution:

When the spark plugs get worn out, you cannot repair them, and you will need to replace them. 

They come at a low price, so replacing them won’t be much of a hassle. New spark plugs can be between $67-$165, and labor costs will be between $155-$165.

Reason 6: Electronic Control Module Malfunctions

A malfunctioning ECM can lead to issues, from minor glitches to a complete no-start situation. Multiple error messages may indicate problems with the ECM.

Solution:

Use a BMW scanner to read ECM-related fault codes. Carly or Bimmerlink apps with an OBDII reader are amazing for this task.

Usually, clearing fault codes or resetting the ECM resolves these problems. However, you may need a deeper diagnosis or a complete ECM replacement if the issues persist.

Reason 7: Fuse and Relay Problems

Fuses and relays safeguard your car’s electrical circuits. Fuses prevent excessive current flow, while relays control high-current circuits with lower-current signals, acting as switches.

Solution:

Regularly check and replace blown fuses. If issues persist, consult a professional for a thorough inspection and potential relay replacement.

Ensure your BMW’s ECM and electrical components are in optimal condition for reliable performance.

Reason 8: Wet Conditions

Exposure to wet conditions, such as water, cleaning products, or spilled drinks can lead to malfunction of the ignition switch.

Solution:

To avoid this particular issue, you should maintain these steps:

• Avoid getting the ignition switch wet or exposing it to spilled liquids.
• Be careful when applying cleaning products to the dashboard to prevent them from seeping into the ignition switch.
• If wetness has occurred, allow the switch to thoroughly dry before attempting to use it.

By addressing these issues, BMW owners can significantly reduce the likelihood of ignition switch malfunctions and enhance the longevity of their push-start button systems. 

Regular maintenance checks, especially after any interior modifications, can help ensure the proper functioning of the ignition switch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can I Start A BMW with A Low Battery?

Look at the steering column. There is a painted pictogram of a vehicle key there, along with directions showing where to position the key fob. The car will still start if you press the fob in this position against the steering column.

Why Is My BMW Brake Hard And Won’t Start?

This can be a vacuum line blockage, vacuum line leak, or braking accelerator control valve leak. Examine the control valve for leaks since it occur after the engine has been idling for a while.

Why Won’t My BMW Start Despite Clicking?

If the clicking sound is coming from the starter, it may not have enough voltage to remain powered, which means that the battery may be dead. Since your alternator charges your battery, a faulty alternator can be the issue. 

Conclusion

If your keyless BMW won’t start with a push button then it is normal to get annoyed. As this can happen due to many reasons, you can easily get confused while troubleshooting the issue. 

So, today we have listed down all the reasons that can cause your BMW not to start and how you can fix them easily. Most of these fixes are easy; hence, you can solve these issues by yourself if you have a good idea about the mechanics of your BMW.

While fixing these issues, make sure to follow all safety precautions and find the root of the problem before selecting them.