BMW E46 remote not working: antenna amplifier and body module
E46 remote not working: where is the fault?
Hold the key near the rear spoiler. If the doors open, the antenna amplifier is probably broken. If they do not open even then, the key battery is flat or the transmitter is faulty. If the remote has never worked, suspect the antenna amplifier.
What can be done about the antenna amplifier?
The amplifier's circuit board and connectors can oxidise, and cleaning can help. Also check its 5 A fuse F49. On the Touring the fault may be in the tailgate wiring harness, where the wires break. After the repair the keys often have to be re-programmed.
When is the fault in the body module relays?
The GM5 body module is behind the glovebox. If the central locking does not work with the remote and the relay clicks but does not pull in, the relays are often oxidised. It is usually enough to replace the module's two relays, not the whole module. Disconnect the battery first.