BMW M3 2001, Manual

Page: 31 / 183

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Index
Data
Technology
Repairs
Car care
Controls
Overview
Electronic vehicle immobilizer Central locking system
The key to security
Your BMW is equipped with a passive
anti–theft system. This electronic immo-
bilization system is designed to reduce
the susceptibility of your 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 work
At the heart of this system is an elec-
tronic chip which is integrated into the
key. The lock mechanism itself is actu-
ally a dual-function device, simulta-
neously serving as a communications
interface designed to allow the security
system to maintain a continuous stream
of variable, 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.
Force applied to the key can
damage the integrated electronic
circuitry. A damaged key can no longer
be used to start the engine.
<
The concept
The system engages and releases the
locks on the:
>
Doors
>
Luggage compartment lid
>
Fuel filler door.
The central locking system is ready for
operation whenever the driver's door is
closed. The central locking system can
be operated
>
from outside via the door lock and
using the remote control
>
from inside by pressing a button.
If it is operated from inside, the fuel
filler door will not be locked (refer to
page
36 ).
When the system is actuated from
outside the vehicle, the antitheft protec-
tion is simultaneously activated. Both
the door locks and release handles
remain locked. The alarm system is also
activated or deactivated.
For your safety: if locked from inside,
the central locking system unlocks
automatically in the event of an acci-
dent. In addition, the hazard warning
flashers and interior lamps come on.