can anti theft code be reset? replaced battery, car turns but won't start.

[mongoose2231]

I did a search but nothing really concrete or related to my issue. So like the title says, the car sat a few days, 2 or 3 with battery taken out as it was dead. New battery in today, turns but won't start. I know it's the code, but how do I reset the darn thing. Car stuck in middle of driveway, kind of in the way. Any help is greatly appreciated. Oh, and she ran and started every time, 74k on odometer only.
Thanks.

[bmwstephen]

the code is disabled once the battery is disconnected...

[mongoose2231]

the code is disabled once the battery is disconnected...

ok, so how do i remedy the problem? the sucker wont start. any ideas?

[bmwstephen]

so when you turn the car, does the OBC screen tell you to enter a code? what is the new battery specs?

[e30vert]

Possibly take title to BMW dealer and from the VIN number they "may" be able to provide the anti theft code for you. Call first and talk to service advisor.

[mongoose2231]

yes, yes, the manual says all data is erased if no power to the obc. So how do I fix this problem? Perhaps reprogram a anew code?

[mongoose2231]

so when you turn the car, does the OBC screen tell you to enter a code? what is the new battery specs?

ok the obc displays four dashes. I guess it wants me to enter a new code. The battery is the same as the one it had before. Different brand but same spec.

[bmwstephen]

that's a pretty kick ass phenonmenon i wish mine would do that

[Freude am Fahren]

I'm confused. This is an E36 we are talking about here, correct?

[Freude am Fahren]

If indeed an E36, make sure you shifter is in neutral or park (if automatic) and push down the clutch before starting. Also try using your spare key, the chip inside of the E36 keys sometimes messes with things and you don't get a start. That's all I got

[mongoose2231]

no, no, E30. it's a 91 vert. I will read through the manuial to see how to fix issue. darn car was fine before bat died. i am thinking maybe new code needs doing

[Freude am Fahren]

Since when do E30s have anti theft code?

[e30vert]

There is a code that needs to be entered on the OBC that once entered it will allow the starter defeat to be disabled.

It is accessed by pressing the CODE button on the OBC. You guys have never used that feature?

Here is some helpful info:

CODE Works as a vehicle immobilizer for anti-theft protection. It requires the entering of a code to start the car. If an improper code is entered (or none at all) the starter motor will turn but the engine will not start. If three incorrect codes are entered in succession, or if three attempts are made to start the engine, the horn will sound for 30 seconds. The code must be entered and set at ignition position 1.

To set the CODE feature for the first time, turn the ignition to 1 and press CODE. Using the 1000/100/10/1 buttons, enter any number between 0000 and 9999. (If you make a mistake, turn the ignition to position 2 to cancel.) REMEMBER THE NUMBER! Then turn the ignition to 0 to store the code and activate the system. To start the car or to cancel the feature, turn the ignition to either 1 or 2 and input the correct code. The feature will then be cancelled by starting the engine or by pressing SET-RES; if neither of the two are done then the code will be retained in memory.

[mongoose2231]

Since when do E30s have anti theft code?

well,apparently this one does have one. The manual tells of the procedure of how to set it up. But shouldn't it be optional? How the hell am I going to start this sucker now?

[mongoose2231]

ok fellas, it worked. procedure was. re-disconnect battery, connect again, then put key to 1 position press code button on obc face and input new code. turn key back to 0 then back to one, confirm code and back to zero. Then start car. That easy! Should've payed more attention to owner's manual. Thanks for your help guys.