540i Comfort Access Issues

mdavis3 · 05-23-2018, 07:30 PM

I took my 2017 540i to BMW services because I've been having issues with the comfort access and the key fob range. I'll share the end result first: The service advisor told me that my window tints MIGHT because be causing issues with the key connecting to the car. I wonder if anyone has had this issue before...

So when I try and use comfort access and my key is in my pocket, the door will not open. same with locking it by touching the side of the door handle.

OR when I am in the car it sometimes doesn't start while saying the key isn't found.

OR when I try and open the trunk I have to press the button several times until it opens.

...how can tints cause the key not to work while it is sitting on my lap... The service tech said we can't do anything further until you remove the tints which cost $400. So I'm under warranty and you are telling me because it might be the tints (which I've had for the last 7 months) I have to get it removed before you can do more tests. The tech was also rude and said BMW isn't going to give you a $400 brand new key if we can't reproduce the problem. After I mentioned how much the tints cost.

Oh I forgot to mention that I have another appointment with a different BMW tech in a different location. the tech said there is no way tints stop the car from starting or the range of the key. it worked fine for 7 months and now I'm here.

nlkccom · 05-23-2018, 07:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mdavis3

I took my 2017 540i to BMW services because I've been having issues with the comfort access and the key fob range. I'll share the end result first: The service advisor told me that my window tints MIGHT because be causing issues with the key connecting to the car. I wonder if anyone has had this issue before...

So when I try and use comfort access and my key is in my pocket, the door will not open. same with locking it by touching the side of the door handle.

OR when I am in the car it sometimes doesn't start while saying the key isn't found.

OR when I try and open the trunk I have to press the button several times until it opens.

...how can tints cause the key not to work while it is sitting on my lap... The service tech said we can't do anything further until you remove the tints which cost $400. So I'm under warranty and you are telling me because it might be the tints (which I've had for the last 7 months) I have to get it removed before you can do more tests. The tech was also rude and said BMW isn't going to give you a $400 brand new key if we can't reproduce the problem. After I mentioned how much the tints cost.

Oh I forgot to mention that I have another appointment with a different BMW tech in a different location. the tech said there is no way tints stop the car from starting or the range of the key. it worked fine for 7 months and now I'm here.

I can't imagine the tint will have an effect of the key fob range. I had mine tinted with 18 carbon, and the key fob works the same before and after the tint.

530iDriver · 05-23-2018, 07:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nlkccom

Quote:

Originally Posted by mdavis3

I took my 2017 540i to BMW services because I've been having issues with the comfort access and the key fob range. I'll share the end result first: The service advisor told me that my window tints MIGHT because be causing issues with the key connecting to the car. I wonder if anyone has had this issue before...

So when I try and use comfort access and my key is in my pocket, the door will not open. same with locking it by touching the side of the door handle.

OR when I am in the car it sometimes doesn't start while saying the key isn't found.

OR when I try and open the trunk I have to press the button several times until it opens.

...how can tints cause the key not to work while it is sitting on my lap... The service tech said we can't do anything further until you remove the tints which cost $400. So I'm under warranty and you are telling me because it might be the tints (which I've had for the last 7 months) I have to get it removed before you can do more tests. The tech was also rude and said BMW isn't going to give you a $400 brand new key if we can't reproduce the problem. After I mentioned how much the tints cost.

Oh I forgot to mention that I have another appointment with a different BMW tech in a different location. the tech said there is no way tints stop the car from starting or the range of the key. it worked fine for 7 months and now I'm here.

I can't imagine the tint will have an effect of the key fob range. I had mine tinted with 18 carbon, and the key fob works the same before and after the tint.

Quote:

Originally Posted by nlkccom

Quote:

Originally Posted by mdavis3

I took my 2017 540i to BMW services because I've been having issues with the comfort access and the key fob range. I'll share the end result first: The service advisor told me that my window tints MIGHT because be causing issues with the key connecting to the car. I wonder if anyone has had this issue before...

So when I try and use comfort access and my key is in my pocket, the door will not open. same with locking it by touching the side of the door handle.

OR when I am in the car it sometimes doesn't start while saying the key isn't found.

OR when I try and open the trunk I have to press the button several times until it opens.

...how can tints cause the key not to work while it is sitting on my lap... The service tech said we can't do anything further until you remove the tints which cost $400. So I'm under warranty and you are telling me because it might be the tints (which I've had for the last 7 months) I have to get it removed before you can do more tests. The tech was also rude and said BMW isn't going to give you a $400 brand new key if we can't reproduce the problem. After I mentioned how much the tints cost.

Oh I forgot to mention that I have another appointment with a different BMW tech in a different location. the tech said there is no way tints stop the car from starting or the range of the key. it worked fine for 7 months and now I'm here.

I can't imagine the tint will have an effect of the key fob range. I had mine tinted with 18 carbon, and the key fob works the same before and after the tint.

Yes that might be it, but not all tinting films are created equal. It seems our highly wired and complex vehicles rely on their sensors to have just the right amount of light/visibility so these features can work properly.

Interesting developments OP, please keep us posted and hopefully the issue can be easily sorted.

mdavis3 · 05-23-2018, 07:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 530iDriver

Quote:

Originally Posted by nlkccom

Quote:

Originally Posted by mdavis3

I took my 2017 540i to BMW services because I've been having issues with the comfort access and the key fob range. I'll share the end result first: The service advisor told me that my window tints MIGHT because be causing issues with the key connecting to the car. I wonder if anyone has had this issue before...

So when I try and use comfort access and my key is in my pocket, the door will not open. same with locking it by touching the side of the door handle.

OR when I am in the car it sometimes doesn't start while saying the key isn't found.

OR when I try and open the trunk I have to press the button several times until it opens.

...how can tints cause the key not to work while it is sitting on my lap... The service tech said we can't do anything further until you remove the tints which cost $400. So I'm under warranty and you are telling me because it might be the tints (which I've had for the last 7 months) I have to get it removed before you can do more tests. The tech was also rude and said BMW isn't going to give you a $400 brand new key if we can't reproduce the problem. After I mentioned how much the tints cost.

Oh I forgot to mention that I have another appointment with a different BMW tech in a different location. the tech said there is no way tints stop the car from starting or the range of the key. it worked fine for 7 months and now I'm here.

I can't imagine the tint will have an effect of the key fob range. I had mine tinted with 18 carbon, and the key fob works the same before and after the tint.

Quote:

Originally Posted by nlkccom

Quote:

Originally Posted by mdavis3

I took my 2017 540i to BMW services because I've been having issues with the comfort access and the key fob range. I'll share the end result first: The service advisor told me that my window tints MIGHT because be causing issues with the key connecting to the car. I wonder if anyone has had this issue before...

So when I try and use comfort access and my key is in my pocket, the door will not open. same with locking it by touching the side of the door handle.

OR when I am in the car it sometimes doesn't start while saying the key isn't found.

OR when I try and open the trunk I have to press the button several times until it opens.

...how can tints cause the key not to work while it is sitting on my lap... The service tech said we can't do anything further until you remove the tints which cost $400. So I'm under warranty and you are telling me because it might be the tints (which I've had for the last 7 months) I have to get it removed before you can do more tests. The tech was also rude and said BMW isn't going to give you a $400 brand new key if we can't reproduce the problem. After I mentioned how much the tints cost.

Oh I forgot to mention that I have another appointment with a different BMW tech in a different location. the tech said there is no way tints stop the car from starting or the range of the key. it worked fine for 7 months and now I'm here.

I can't imagine the tint will have an effect of the key fob range. I had mine tinted with 18 carbon, and the key fob works the same before and after the tint.

Yes that might be it, but not all tinting films are created equal. It seems our highly wired and complex vehicles rely on their sensors to have just the right amount of light/visibility so these features can work properly.

Interesting developments OP, please keep us posted and hopefully the issue can be easily sorted.

Quote:

Originally Posted by 530iDriver

Quote:

Originally Posted by nlkccom

Quote:

Originally Posted by mdavis3

I took my 2017 540i to BMW services because I've been having issues with the comfort access and the key fob range. I'll share the end result first: The service advisor told me that my window tints MIGHT because be causing issues with the key connecting to the car. I wonder if anyone has had this issue before...

So when I try and use comfort access and my key is in my pocket, the door will not open. same with locking it by touching the side of the door handle.

OR when I am in the car it sometimes doesn't start while saying the key isn't found.

OR when I try and open the trunk I have to press the button several times until it opens.

...how can tints cause the key not to work while it is sitting on my lap... The service tech said we can't do anything further until you remove the tints which cost $400. So I'm under warranty and you are telling me because it might be the tints (which I've had for the last 7 months) I have to get it removed before you can do more tests. The tech was also rude and said BMW isn't going to give you a $400 brand new key if we can't reproduce the problem. After I mentioned how much the tints cost.

Oh I forgot to mention that I have another appointment with a different BMW tech in a different location. the tech said there is no way tints stop the car from starting or the range of the key. it worked fine for 7 months and now I'm here.

I can't imagine the tint will have an effect of the key fob range. I had mine tinted with 18 carbon, and the key fob works the same before and after the tint.

Quote:

Originally Posted by nlkccom

Quote:

Originally Posted by mdavis3

I took my 2017 540i to BMW services because I've been having issues with the comfort access and the key fob range. I'll share the end result first: The service advisor told me that my window tints MIGHT because be causing issues with the key connecting to the car. I wonder if anyone has had this issue before...

So when I try and use comfort access and my key is in my pocket, the door will not open. same with locking it by touching the side of the door handle.

OR when I am in the car it sometimes doesn't start while saying the key isn't found.

OR when I try and open the trunk I have to press the button several times until it opens.

...how can tints cause the key not to work while it is sitting on my lap... The service tech said we can't do anything further until you remove the tints which cost $400. So I'm under warranty and you are telling me because it might be the tints (which I've had for the last 7 months) I have to get it removed before you can do more tests. The tech was also rude and said BMW isn't going to give you a $400 brand new key if we can't reproduce the problem. After I mentioned how much the tints cost.

Oh I forgot to mention that I have another appointment with a different BMW tech in a different location. the tech said there is no way tints stop the car from starting or the range of the key. it worked fine for 7 months and now I'm here.

I can't imagine the tint will have an effect of the key fob range. I had mine tinted with 18 carbon, and the key fob works the same before and after the tint.

Yes that might be it, but not all tinting films are created equal. It seems our highly wired and complex vehicles rely on their sensors to have just the right amount of light/visibility so these features can work properly.

Interesting developments OP, please keep us posted and hopefully the issue can be easily sorted.

It worked fine for 7 months. I can't trust that it's the issue. maybe my wife dropped my key or something. but will keep you all posted.

530iDriver · 05-23-2018, 07:55 PM

Question, do you experience the same issue with the spare key?

mdavis3 · 05-23-2018, 08:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 530iDriver

Question, do you experience the same issue with the spare key?

The spare key hasn't been working right ever since my wife dropped it. So I don't use that one often. It works but the range is bad, but it starts the car with no issue.

r33_RGSport · 05-23-2018, 08:28 PM

That is a BS answer.
This car is so complicated and have multiple sensors.

There is CA sensors by the trunk and sides of the car.
External antenna for keyfob receiver.
Internal sensors for Keyfob detection.

The tint may only reduce your Cellular reception and it may reduce the distance of Keyfob signal.
But, not when you are next to the car and touching the door handle or sitting inside the car trying to start the engine.

I hope another dealership has better answer and solution for you.

mdavis3 · 05-23-2018, 09:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by r33_RGSport

That is a BS answer.
This car is so complicated and have multiple sensors.

There is CA sensors by the trunk and sides of the car.
External antenna for keyfob receiver.
Internal sensors for Keyfob detection.

The tint may only reduce your Cellular reception and it may reduce the distance of Keyfob signal.
But, not when you are next to the car and touching the door handle or sitting inside the car trying to start the engine.

I hope another dealership has better answer and solution for you.

That is what I thought. And when I first got the vehicle tinted I used to unlock my car from my apartment and walk more than 100 feet and down to my basement parking spot. So I called BS as soon as he said that.

timmahh · 05-23-2018, 09:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by r33_RGSport

That is a BS answer.
This car is so complicated and have multiple sensors.

There is CA sensors by the trunk and sides of the car.
External antenna for keyfob receiver.
Internal sensors for Keyfob detection.

The tint may only reduce your Cellular reception and it may reduce the distance of Keyfob signal.
But, not when you are next to the car and touching the door handle or sitting inside the car trying to start the engine.

I hope another dealership has better answer and solution for you.

I dunno; this diagram seems to show there is only one external sensor and it’s if you have remote parking. Everything else looks within the vehicle cabin (even the “outside door sill” isn’t visibly mounted outside, so it’s behind some metal somewhere). I know certain tints can cause reception issues.

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/show...diagId=65_2644

The cellular antenna should be in the fin on the roof, with gps etc.

r33_RGSport · 05-23-2018, 10:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by timmahh

Quote:

Originally Posted by r33_RGSport

That is a BS answer.
This car is so complicated and have multiple sensors.

There is CA sensors by the trunk and sides of the car.
External antenna for keyfob receiver.
Internal sensors for Keyfob detection.

The tint may only reduce your Cellular reception and it may reduce the distance of Keyfob signal.
But, not when you are next to the car and touching the door handle or sitting inside the car trying to start the engine.

I hope another dealership has better answer and solution for you.

I dunno; this diagram seems to show there is only one external sensor and it’s if you have remote parking. Everything else looks within the vehicle cabin (even the “outside door sill” isn’t visibly mounted outside, so it’s behind some metal somewhere). I know certain tints can cause reception issues.

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/show...diagId=65_2644

The cellular antenna should be in the fin on the roof, with gps etc.

Based on the parts diagram, there are 3x sensors #1 and 2x sensors #2.

basementman · 05-23-2018, 11:03 PM

I was having similar issues with one of our two keys, although it would always start the car once inside. The dealer was able to test the transmitting power and range and it was determined the key was defective, even though it had been working fine for seven months. They replaced the key. We do not have tints.

mobilejo · 05-24-2018, 10:12 AM

Can't they just test with the windows down? Tints wouldn't be blocking anything that way...

SteveinArizona · 05-24-2018, 10:42 AM

sounds like BS BUT what type of tint did you use and what strength?

mdavis3 · 05-25-2018, 09:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteveinArizona

sounds like BS BUT what type of tint did you use and what strength?

I can't remember the exact tint that I used... It wasn't anything super fancy. But I know it was 30%.

mdavis3 · 05-25-2018, 09:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mobilejo

Can't they just test with the windows down? Tints wouldn't be blocking anything that way...

The tech said they couldn't reproduce the issue. So they didn't even need to test it with the windows down. I tried it and no difference.

ZigmundUK · 05-25-2018, 05:08 PM

Some of the doors are playing up when opening them etc now. Not too sure but will keep an eye on it over the next few days and report back... FYI we only have sun protection glass in the back so no tint issues.

Short540 · 05-26-2018, 07:50 AM

I had same problem with both of my keys. The range was terrible. It only worked standing a few feet away. Dealer replaced one key and it has worked ever since. He didn't replace the other key though. I guess they figured replacing one was enough. I believe my other key still acts up

crmgr · 05-29-2018, 01:22 PM

Same problem. Range is no where near comfort access in previous model years. Dealer ran system for faults and everything pointed to the driver's handle. New one ordered from Germany, same problems. Owners manual says you need to stand close to the door for comfort access. Was expecting more than 10 inches. May revisit for the FOBS next time I'm in for service.

timmahh · 05-29-2018, 03:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by crmgr

Same problem. Range is no where near comfort access in previous model years. Dealer ran system for faults and everything pointed to the driver's handle. New one ordered from Germany, same problems. Owners manual says you need to stand close to the door for comfort access. Was expecting more than 10 inches. May revisit for the FOBS next time I'm in for service.

FWIW.. I can unlock it (a bit concerning) 3 floors up from my car.. but I wouldn't consider that comfort access. One in the same I know, but I think of CA as the ability to unlock touch/etc on the door handles, something that would require me to be.. touching the car and not any distance away. Unlocking/locking from a distance I just think of ye old key fob functionality from 1995. Not sure if it's all the same antennas or not, would make sense that it is.

mdavis3 · 05-29-2018, 08:53 PM

So I have an appointment set up for next week to get my key "reprogrammed"... I'm interested to see how this goes because they last BMW shop said "Keys cannot be reprogrammed." I already got a better vibe from this BMW, the tech said it is unacceptable that the other tech said it was my tints. I'll have to update yall next week.

mdavis3 · 06-07-2018, 11:49 AM

UPDATE: My car is in the BMW shop and I just got a call from the tech saying that my tints could possibly be the issue because they can't reproduce the problem. So after having my car for 7 months all a sudden the key has come susceptible to the dark tint?! I'm confused. And they can't offer any other sort of tests or solutions that will fix the problem.

SteveinArizona · 06-07-2018, 02:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mdavis3

UPDATE: My car is in the BMW shop and I just got a call from the tech saying that my tints could possibly be the issue because they can't reproduce the problem. So after having my car for 7 months all a sudden the key has come susceptible to the dark tint?! I'm confused. And they can't offer any other sort of tests or solutions that will fix the problem.

I can see how that could possibly be an issue with opening the door but I don't see how a tint can impact on starting the car when you are inside. That sounds like total BS.

05-23-2018, 07:30 PM	#1
mdavis3 Private 13 Rep 50 Posts Drives: 540i MSport Join Date: Apr 2017 Location: Atlanta, GA iTrader: (0)	540i Comfort Access Issues I took my 2017 540i to BMW services because I've been having issues with the comfort access and the key fob range. I'll share the end result first: The service advisor told me that my window tints MIGHT because be causing issues with the key connecting to the car. I wonder if anyone has had this issue before... So when I try and use comfort access and my key is in my pocket, the door will not open. same with locking it by touching the side of the door handle. OR when I am in the car it sometimes doesn't start while saying the key isn't found. OR when I try and open the trunk I have to press the button several times until it opens. ...how can tints cause the key not to work while it is sitting on my lap... The service tech said we can't do anything further until you remove the tints which cost $400. So I'm under warranty and you are telling me because it might be the tints (which I've had for the last 7 months) I have to get it removed before you can do more tests. The tech was also rude and said BMW isn't going to give you a $400 brand new key if we can't reproduce the problem. After I mentioned how much the tints cost. Oh I forgot to mention that I have another appointment with a different BMW tech in a different location. the tech said there is no way tints stop the car from starting or the range of the key. it worked fine for 7 months and now I'm here.
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05-23-2018, 07:55 PM	#5
530iDriver Colonel 1708 Rep 2,539 Posts Drives: 2017 BMW 530i Join Date: May 2018 Location: Florida iTrader: (0)	Question, do you experience the same issue with the spare key? __________________ 2017 BMW 530i, Sport Line,Alpine White, Canberra Beige Sensatec, 19 inch V-Spoke wheels, basic plain Jane build with no options whatsoever..... "Less is more". Before: 2011 BMW 328i E90 sedan, Platinum Bronze Metallic, Dakota Brown leather, 17 inch wheels, 6-speed auto, N52 6 Cyl inline N/A goodness....
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05-23-2018, 08:28 PM	#7
r33_RGSport General 13127 Rep 18,795 Posts Drives: G09 XM, G05 X5 40, 991.2 T Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: So. Cal iTrader: (6)	That is a BS answer. This car is so complicated and have multiple sensors. There is CA sensors by the trunk and sides of the car. External antenna for keyfob receiver. Internal sensors for Keyfob detection. The tint may only reduce your Cellular reception and it may reduce the distance of Keyfob signal. But, not when you are next to the car and touching the door handle or sitting inside the car trying to start the engine. I hope another dealership has better answer and solution for you. __________________ Email:sales@rgsport.com \| IG:RGSport_USA \| Web:RGSportShop.com Memorial Day SALE!! 05/24 - 06/03 • Coupon Code: "MEMORIAL" MSS • iSweep • RaceChip • Sterckenn • AutoTecknic • Akrapovic • Vossen Wheels • Eventuri Active Autowerke • KW • H&R • Ohlins • Remus • and more...
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05-23-2018, 11:03 PM	#11
basementman New Member 23 Rep 10 Posts Drives: 2017 G30 540iXdrive Join Date: Apr 2017 Location: Chicago iTrader: (0)	I was having similar issues with one of our two keys, although it would always start the car once inside. The dealer was able to test the transmitting power and range and it was determined the key was defective, even though it had been working fine for seven months. They replaced the key. We do not have tints.
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05-24-2018, 10:12 AM	#12
mobilejo Colonel 1120 Rep 2,087 Posts Drives: G06 X6 40i Join Date: Apr 2012 Location: United Kingdom iTrader: (0)	Can't they just test with the windows down? Tints wouldn't be blocking anything that way...
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05-24-2018, 10:42 AM	#13
SteveinArizona Brigadier General 3088 Rep 4,210 Posts Drives: BMW 530e Join Date: Jul 2016 Location: Greater Phoenix iTrader: (0)	sounds like BS BUT what type of tint did you use and what strength?
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05-25-2018, 05:08 PM	#16
ZigmundUK Lieutenant Colonel 448 Rep 1,963 Posts Drives: I20 IX M60 Oxide Grey Join Date: Mar 2013 Location: NCL - UK iTrader: (0) Garage List 2008 E61 520d SE [0.00] 2017 G30 530d M-Spo ... [0.00]	Some of the doors are playing up when opening them etc now. Not too sure but will keep an eye on it over the next few days and report back... FYI we only have sun protection glass in the back so no tint issues. __________________ Running: G30 530d M Sport (B57) Mediterranean Blue Running: I20 IX M60 Oxide Grey Gone: F15 X5 40d M Sport (N57) Glacier Silver, E61 520d SE Auto (N47D20) Titanium Silver, F31 330d M Sport (N57D30A) Estoril Blue, E87 120d SE Auto (M47TU2D20) Sparkling Graphite
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05-26-2018, 07:50 AM	#17
Short540 Second Lieutenant 113 Rep 225 Posts Drives: X5 50i Join Date: Feb 2018 Location: New york iTrader: (1) Garage List 2019 BMW X50i [0.00]	Keys I had same problem with both of my keys. The range was terrible. It only worked standing a few feet away. Dealer replaced one key and it has worked ever since. He didn't replace the other key though. I guess they figured replacing one was enough. I believe my other key still acts up
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05-29-2018, 01:22 PM	#18
crmgr Private 6 Rep 85 Posts Drives: 2011 BMW 535XI M-Sport Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: Ohio iTrader: (0)	Same problem. Range is no where near comfort access in previous model years. Dealer ran system for faults and everything pointed to the driver's handle. New one ordered from Germany, same problems. Owners manual says you need to stand close to the door for comfort access. Was expecting more than 10 inches. May revisit for the FOBS next time I'm in for service.
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05-29-2018, 08:53 PM	#20
mdavis3 Private 13 Rep 50 Posts Drives: 540i MSport Join Date: Apr 2017 Location: Atlanta, GA iTrader: (0)	So I have an appointment set up for next week to get my key "reprogrammed"... I'm interested to see how this goes because they last BMW shop said "Keys cannot be reprogrammed." I already got a better vibe from this BMW, the tech said it is unacceptable that the other tech said it was my tints. I'll have to update yall next week.
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06-07-2018, 11:49 AM	#21
mdavis3 Private 13 Rep 50 Posts Drives: 540i MSport Join Date: Apr 2017 Location: Atlanta, GA iTrader: (0)	UPDATE: My car is in the BMW shop and I just got a call from the tech saying that my tints could possibly be the issue because they can't reproduce the problem. So after having my car for 7 months all a sudden the key has come susceptible to the dark tint?! I'm confused. And they can't offer any other sort of tests or solutions that will fix the problem.
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