How well does Comfort Access work in your Z4? It sucks in mine.

warden · 12-29-2010, 11:43 AM

I've had comfort access on three BMWs -- 335i, e92 M3, and now my Z4 35is. CA on the Z4 is *by far* the worst.

While the doors typically unlock/lock when the handles are touched in the proper spot, the trunk fails to respond to the roundel being flipped more than 50% of the time. There is even failure when the key is in my hand. That makes no sense. (Generally, the key is in my pocket or briefcase, within 12-24 inches of the lock.) Moreover, the remote up/down of the roof rarely works. And when it starts to work it often stops, as if the signal has been interrupted.

It's hard for me to believe that this is endemic to the Z4 design; it seems more likely to be an issue with my car.

Before contacting the dealership, I'd really appreciate hearing about other's experiences.

Thanks.

mcbeee · 12-29-2010, 11:58 AM

I found that if I had the key in a pants pocket (lower than the window glass) I had some issues with it not working properly, also from previous experience I knew that having other electronics hooked up and "on" in the car , like a GPS, can interfere a bit with the system. The roof open/close feature is a bit tricky, mostly I believe because the signal is not too strong and any kind of distraction can break the signal to receiver link. Just my guesses....

HerrK · 12-29-2010, 11:58 AM

I've had no issues or any as you described with my CA. Might want to check voltage/change the battery or try the other FOB.

richard in NC · 12-29-2010, 12:31 PM

My trunk is stubborn at times but no other issues. If I try 2-3 times with the trunk release, it will often work.

tranquility · 12-29-2010, 01:43 PM

My trunk sensor(?) is not sensitive and I find that I have to get w/i 1 feet to be able to open the trunk. Other than that, no other prbs w/ the CA.

ChuckB · 12-29-2010, 01:43 PM

Definitely change the key fob battery, the receiver is inside the passenger compartment. Had the same issues, worse with the cold weather till I sprang for a new battery.

Dr Stig 2 · 12-29-2010, 03:48 PM

My boot CA is intermittent, Works about 80% of the time. Currently under investigation by the dealership.

My passenger door was also a bit dicky, it started working about every second time for a few days, but they found the door lock was faulty - not the sensor.

Note: boot=trunk

I expect the boot lock (roundial) will be replaced on the next trip back (when they replace the seat leather - dealer mishap, one of the roof-closed sensors in the boot, and the centre rear speaker - fried).

I find the CA for the access to the full boot with the roof down is also touchy, but you just have to get the click sequence "just right" (fast click then click and hold).

As for the roof up and down, no issues as long as I am close enough to the car (about a metre from the door)

As for the doors, I was "taught" by the dealer that touching the door was a no-no. Apparently I should hover my hand near the door until it unlocks, then open it. Dont rush in and touch it. I don't know how true this is, but it sounds a bit stupid to me.

Mr. ///M3 RD · 12-29-2010, 03:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by warden

I've had comfort access on three BMWs -- 335i, e92 M3, and now my Z4 35is. CA on the Z4 is *by far* the worst.

While the doors typically unlock/lock when the handles are touched in the proper spot, the trunk fails to respond to the roundel being flipped more than 50% of the time. There is even failure when the key is in my hand. That makes no sense. (Generally, the key is in my pocket or briefcase, within 12-24 inches of the lock.) Moreover, the remote up/down of the roof rarely works. And when it starts to work it often stops, as if the signal has been interrupted.

It's hard for me to believe that this is endemic to the Z4 design; it seems more likely to be an issue with my car.

Before contacting the dealership, I'd really appreciate hearing about other's experiences.

Thanks.

I don't seam to have any problems. I think (if I am not mistaken) the key needs to be charged here and then. What I do on longer trips I just put the key into the slot so it can re-charge itself.

Tip, did you ever try from far away open your doors and roof? Try pointing the key not to the car point it to your head and see how far away it responds for you (you be amazed your head works like a transmitter)

Try it

ChuckB · 12-29-2010, 04:18 PM

Comfort Access has a different Remote FOB, with a battery in it (see page 36 In the manual).

Make sure there is not key INSIDE the car, this will have an effect on Comfort Access features working.

There is a built in 2 second delay between locking and unlocking events.

Try NEVER to have 2 remotes close to the car before 1 of them is used to unlock and start it.

Of you want to see some funny behavior, leave a remote in the trunk and close it, trunk will open and the alarm will go off.

My remote will lower and raise the top from 20ft away.

mcbeee · 12-29-2010, 05:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ChuckB

Comfort Access has a different Remote FOB, with a battery in it (see page 36 In the manual).

Make sure there is not key INSIDE the car, this will have an effect on Comfort Access features working.

There is a built in 2 second delay between locking and unlocking events.

Try NEVER to have 2 remotes close to the car before 1 of them is used to unlock and start it.

Of you want to see some funny behavior, leave a remote in the trunk and close it, trunk will open and the alarm will go off.

My remote will lower and raise the top from 20ft away.

X 2 .....Definite on the battery replacement, I had to do mine.

KrisNL · 12-29-2010, 05:10 PM

Never had any problem, works fine.

tranquility · 12-29-2010, 06:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dr Stig 2

As for the doors, I was "taught" by the dealer that touching the door was a no-no. Apparently I should hover my hand near the door until it unlocks, then open it. Dont rush in and touch it. I don't know how true this is, but it sounds a bit stupid to me.

That's weird. One has to touch the handle to *lock* it anyway, so not sure why one cannot touch the handle to *unlock*.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rolf-Dieter

I don't seam to have any problems. I think (if I am not mistaken) the key needs to be charged here and then. What I do on longer trips I just put the key into the slot so it can re-charge itself.

I thought that the CA fobs are self-charging? Or cannot make use of that slot for charging.

Quote:

Originally Posted by ChuckB

My remote will lower and raise the top from 20ft away.

20ft? Wow, that is some range. I think maybe 6ft for me. Anyway, I always operate the roof when the engine's still running to not drain the battery.

Silver-Bolt · 12-29-2010, 07:24 PM

We have had the top issue twice now. Stops part way through the open/close process. Just using the dash button until we have time to take it in.

mcbeee · 12-29-2010, 07:30 PM

Originally Posted by Dr Stig 2 View Post
As for the doors, I was "taught" by the dealer that touching the door was a no-no. Apparently I should hover my hand near the door until it unlocks, then open it. Dont rush in and touch it. I don't know how true this is, but it sounds a bit stupid to me.

I agree , it is stupid. I touch the door, it unlocks. Simple.

Mr. ///M3 RD · 12-30-2010, 07:50 AM

tranquility

I have to read the manual regarding charging of the key? My m3 key had to be inserted for it to be recharged.

Someone here (in the forum) said the Z key is not recharged and battery needs to be replaced. As I said I need to further investigate this.

BMWZ4 · 12-30-2010, 08:19 AM

Only models equipped w/o CA get their key fob charged via the slot in the dash, CA equipped fobs do not. Consequently, at some point you'lll need to replace the battery.

Page 36 I think.
Dave

teezee · 12-30-2010, 11:20 AM

Dave is correct

MikeChrista · 12-30-2010, 12:00 PM

Never had any problems with mine and in fact all open/closing works fine even when the fob is in my golf bag some feet away. Only strange thing I noticed with it is if I unlock and open the doors too quickly the seats do not move automatically to the correct position for the key in use.

warden · 12-30-2010, 02:16 PM

The feedback is much appreciated.

I'm taking the Z in to the dealership next week. I'll report back.

Land_Shark · 12-31-2010, 04:29 AM

There are a lot of reasons why your key is not communicating properly with youR CA sensors. The main reason I would look for first, is at what frequency your key is talking to your CA sensors. This would be in MHZ, or GHZ... Anything from a nearby WiFi, to a high voltage electrical lines(/pots)...
It could be as well any car nearby using a similar low/high frequency, such as a CB, radar junker etc...

jmelong · 01-01-2011, 06:26 AM

My 2010 with CA works great. The ONLY time it has ever been an issue is when the wife has her key in her purse near the car at the same time I am trying to do something. The car does not like this. Chuck B's response is right on.

cwliew · 01-01-2011, 03:11 PM

Mine works perfectly too...I can open and close the roof, but not from a huge distance. Maybe 10ft.

Your CA fob cannot be charged in your car. In fact, the only use for the key insert in your car is for programming things.

The one thing I haven't yet worked out how to use (or needed to as yet) is the convenient loading feature for the boot...apparently it lifts your roof slightly so you can open the panel in your boot to get things in and out...Anyone tried this?

12-29-2010, 11:43 AM	#1
warden Owning It 17 Rep 152 Posts Drives: 2012 911 Carrera S Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: San Francisco iTrader: (0)	How well does Comfort Access work in your Z4? It sucks in mine. I've had comfort access on three BMWs -- 335i, e92 M3, and now my Z4 35is. CA on the Z4 is by far the worst. While the doors typically unlock/lock when the handles are touched in the proper spot, the trunk fails to respond to the roundel being flipped more than 50% of the time. There is even failure when the key is in my hand. That makes no sense. (Generally, the key is in my pocket or briefcase, within 12-24 inches of the lock.) Moreover, the remote up/down of the roof rarely works. And when it starts to work it often stops, as if the signal has been interrupted. It's hard for me to believe that this is endemic to the Z4 design; it seems more likely to be an issue with my car. Before contacting the dealership, I'd really appreciate hearing about other's experiences. Thanks.
	Appreciate 0 Tweet Quote

12-29-2010, 11:58 AM	#2
mcbeee Lieutenant 5 Rep 446 Posts Drives: '09 Z4 s35i & '03 Z4 3.0i Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Calgary iTrader: (0) Garage List 2003 Z4 3.0i [5.00] 2001 Z3 3.0i [0.00] 2009 Z4 s35i [7.00]	I found that if I had the key in a pants pocket (lower than the window glass) I had some issues with it not working properly, also from previous experience I knew that having other electronics hooked up and "on" in the car , like a GPS, can interfere a bit with the system. The roof open/close feature is a bit tricky, mostly I believe because the signal is not too strong and any kind of distraction can break the signal to receiver link. Just my guesses.... __________________ Member ZSCCA 2009 Z4 s35i with Dinan Stage II software, Sport and Exec packages, 19" 296 rims , a stubby and mud flaps '03 Z4 3.0i Sterling Grey (Hers) '01 Z3 3.0i Sapphire Black, M sport package (Mine)
	Appreciate 0 Quote

12-29-2010, 11:58 AM	#3
HerrK Captain 42 Rep 640 Posts Drives: 21 X5 40i, 77 R100Rs Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: AZ iTrader: (0)	I've had no issues or any as you described with my CA. Might want to check voltage/change the battery or try the other FOB. __________________ HerrK - 2021 X5 40i M Sport l PCD l Atlantis Blue/Ext'd Tartufo Merino l M Sport w/blue Calipers l Matt Popular l HK Sound l 740's l Exec & Drive Pro Pack Sold w/Great Memories - E89 Z4 l ED 2010 l 2011 35i l Crimson/Ext'd Coral Red w/Alum l 6 sp MT l Prem Sound l Sport Pack l 296's
	Appreciate 0 Quote

12-29-2010, 12:31 PM	#4
richard in NC Colonel 1229 Rep 2,602 Posts Drives: 2009 Z4 35i Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: Charlotte, NC iTrader: (0)	My trunk is stubborn at times but no other issues. If I try 2-3 times with the trunk release, it will often work. __________________ 2020 X3M non-comp, Alpine White over black : Exec Pkg, ventilated M Sport seats, 20"s 2020 M2 Comp, Sunset Orange/Blk: Orange stitching, DCT, exec pkg, bicolor rims Gone '18 M550i, '16 X4 M40i, '15 M5, '13 X3 35i, '12 335is, '11 X5 50i, '09 Z4 35i, '08 550i, 06 X3, 06 650i, '02 M5, '99 540i
	Appreciate 0 Quote

12-29-2010, 01:43 PM	#5
tranquility sportscars only 3244 Rep 3,195 Posts Drives: 2011 Z4 sDrive 35i Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Montréal iTrader: (0)	My trunk sensor(?) is not sensitive and I find that I have to get w/i 1 feet to be able to open the trunk. Other than that, no other prbs w/ the CA.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

12-29-2010, 01:43 PM	#6
ChuckB Lieutenant 17 Rep 448 Posts Drives: 2020 X2 2.0i Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Hockenheim, Germany (APO) iTrader: (0)	Definitely change the key fob battery, the receiver is inside the passenger compartment. Had the same issues, worse with the cold weather till I sprang for a new battery.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

12-29-2010, 03:48 PM	#7
Dr Stig 2 Criminally Insane 53 Rep 1,464 Posts Drives: Like a Demon! Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Brisbane, Australia iTrader: (0) Garage List 2010 BMW Z4 35is [10.00] 2013 BMW X5 30d [0.00]	My boot CA is intermittent, Works about 80% of the time. Currently under investigation by the dealership. My passenger door was also a bit dicky, it started working about every second time for a few days, but they found the door lock was faulty - not the sensor. Note: boot=trunk I expect the boot lock (roundial) will be replaced on the next trip back (when they replace the seat leather - dealer mishap, one of the roof-closed sensors in the boot, and the centre rear speaker - fried). I find the CA for the access to the full boot with the roof down is also touchy, but you just have to get the click sequence "just right" (fast click then click and hold). As for the roof up and down, no issues as long as I am close enough to the car (about a metre from the door) As for the doors, I was "taught" by the dealer that touching the door was a no-no. Apparently I should hover my hand near the door until it unlocks, then open it. Dont rush in and touch it. I don't know how true this is, but it sounds a bit stupid to me. __________________ Dr Stig 2010 Z4 35is 2011 X3 30d M Sport Australia
	Appreciate 0 Quote

12-29-2010, 04:18 PM	#9
ChuckB Lieutenant 17 Rep 448 Posts Drives: 2020 X2 2.0i Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Hockenheim, Germany (APO) iTrader: (0)	Comfort Access has a different Remote FOB, with a battery in it (see page 36 In the manual). Make sure there is not key INSIDE the car, this will have an effect on Comfort Access features working. There is a built in 2 second delay between locking and unlocking events. Try NEVER to have 2 remotes close to the car before 1 of them is used to unlock and start it. Of you want to see some funny behavior, leave a remote in the trunk and close it, trunk will open and the alarm will go off. My remote will lower and raise the top from 20ft away.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

12-29-2010, 05:10 PM	#11
KrisNL Hero of the Day 12 Rep 263 Posts Drives: Z4 sDrive 35i Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Amsterdam iTrader: (0)	Never had any problem, works fine. __________________ Ordered my X3 28i, High Executive, M Sport, Topview, Innovation Pack and a lot of extra's first week of June! - delivered September 13, 2014
	Appreciate 0 Quote

12-29-2010, 07:24 PM	#13
Silver-Bolt Captain 27 Rep 805 Posts Drives: 2011 Z4 35is Melbourne Red Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Portland, OR iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 Z4 35is [9.00]	We have had the top issue twice now. Stops part way through the open/close process. Just using the dash button until we have time to take it in.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

12-29-2010, 07:30 PM	#14
mcbeee Lieutenant 5 Rep 446 Posts Drives: '09 Z4 s35i & '03 Z4 3.0i Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Calgary iTrader: (0) Garage List 2003 Z4 3.0i [5.00] 2001 Z3 3.0i [0.00] 2009 Z4 s35i [7.00]	Originally Posted by Dr Stig 2 View Post As for the doors, I was "taught" by the dealer that touching the door was a no-no. Apparently I should hover my hand near the door until it unlocks, then open it. Dont rush in and touch it. I don't know how true this is, but it sounds a bit stupid to me. I agree , it is stupid. I touch the door, it unlocks. Simple. __________________ Member ZSCCA 2009 Z4 s35i with Dinan Stage II software, Sport and Exec packages, 19" 296 rims , a stubby and mud flaps '03 Z4 3.0i Sterling Grey (Hers) '01 Z3 3.0i Sapphire Black, M sport package (Mine)
	Appreciate 0 Quote

12-30-2010, 07:50 AM	#15
Mr. ///M3 RD Happy Camper 612 Rep 7,869 Posts Drives: C63 AMG & 280 SL on Weekends : Join Date: May 2010 Location: GTA, Ontario - Canada iTrader: (0) Garage List 1969 Restored Merce ... [7.50] 2011 M3 Coupe TRADED [7.34] 1987 BMW 535is [1.00] Cars from the Past [6.50] The ///M3 Engine S65 [9.59]	tranquility I have to read the manual regarding charging of the key? My m3 key had to be inserted for it to be recharged. Someone here (in the forum) said the Z key is not recharged and battery needs to be replaced. As I said I need to further investigate this. __________________ Cheers, Rolf-Dieter Life will take us to some interesting places, fortunately The ///M3 will too with a many of us know this very well, now my C6.3 AMG with 487 HP does it too ---> Click here for some good stuff I found
	Appreciate 0 Quote

12-30-2010, 08:19 AM	#16
BMWZ4 Major General 1910 Rep 5,103 Posts Drives: '23 X1/'23 Allroad Progressiv Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: Toronto iTrader: (1)	Only models equipped w/o CA get their key fob charged via the slot in the dash, CA equipped fobs do not. Consequently, at some point you'lll need to replace the battery. Page 36 I think. Dave __________________ '11 Z4 30i (retired);'11 X3 28i (retired); '15 M235i Stage 1 Dinan (recalled & crushed); '16 M235i Stage 3 Dinan (retired); '15 X3 28i (retired); '14 328i (retired), 2019 X3M40i (retired); Loaded '18 X1 (retired); Loaded '20 X3MC DG, Black/Tan Merino (retired); Loaded '23 X1 Cape York green and Red/Black interior; '23 Audi A4 Allroad Progressiv
	Appreciate 0 Quote

12-30-2010, 11:20 AM	#17
teezee Freude am Fahren 35 Rep 383 Posts Drives: E89 Z4, E46 325iT Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Here,There and Everywhere iTrader: (0)	Dave is correct Attached Images __________________ 2011 E89 Z4 M Sport (Euro Delivery, Performance Center redelivery), Extended Nappa leather, Eisenmann Sport Exhaust 2003 E46 325i Touring
	Appreciate 0 Quote

12-30-2010, 12:00 PM	#18
MikeChrista Private 0 Rep 66 Posts Drives: SDRIVE35i Space Grey Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: East Sussex UK iTrader: (0)	Never had any problems with mine and in fact all open/closing works fine even when the fob is in my golf bag some feet away. Only strange thing I noticed with it is if I unlock and open the doors too quickly the seats do not move automatically to the correct position for the key in use.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

12-30-2010, 02:16 PM	#19
warden Owning It 17 Rep 152 Posts Drives: 2012 911 Carrera S Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: San Francisco iTrader: (0)	Thanks The feedback is much appreciated. I'm taking the Z in to the dealership next week. I'll report back.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

12-31-2010, 04:29 AM	#20
Land_Shark In The Flesh 23 Rep 600 Posts Drives: Z4 sDrive 35i Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: Hong Kong iTrader: (0)	There are a lot of reasons why your key is not communicating properly with youR CA sensors. The main reason I would look for first, is at what frequency your key is talking to your CA sensors. This would be in MHZ, or GHZ... Anything from a nearby WiFi, to a high voltage electrical lines(/pots)... It could be as well any car nearby using a similar low/high frequency, such as a CB, radar junker etc...
	Appreciate 0 Quote

01-01-2011, 06:26 AM	#21
jmelong New Member 0 Rep 6 Posts Drives: 2010 Z4 3.0 Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Tennessee iTrader: (0)	My 2010 with CA works great. The ONLY time it has ever been an issue is when the wife has her key in her purse near the car at the same time I am trying to do something. The car does not like this. Chuck B's response is right on.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

01-01-2011, 03:11 PM	#22
cwliew Private 9 Rep 56 Posts Drives: Sdrive30i, M sports pack Join Date: May 2010 Location: Adelaide, Australia iTrader: (0)	Mine works perfectly too...I can open and close the roof, but not from a huge distance. Maybe 10ft. Your CA fob cannot be charged in your car. In fact, the only use for the key insert in your car is for programming things. The one thing I haven't yet worked out how to use (or needed to as yet) is the convenient loading feature for the boot...apparently it lifts your roof slightly so you can open the panel in your boot to get things in and out...Anyone tried this? __________________ www.AustralianSharesForum.com - Get a free BRW subscription.
	Appreciate 0 Quote