Problem:
One user attempted to add a key to a 2016 BMW X6 (F16) using an Autel IM608 with XP400 PRO and FEM/BDC platform.
He selected the “Smart” mode and followed the steps. After placing the original key in the test platform, the next instruction was to read it using XP400 programmer, but the reading process failed.
Since there was no option to retry reading the key, they restarted the whole process. Unfortunately, this caused the BDC module to stop working, and IM608 could no longer communicate with it.
Suggested Solution:
Avoid using Smart Mode for BMW FEM/BDC modules. Smart Mode only saves coding data—it does not backup the EEPROM data unless the module is on a bench. If critical data like BTLD or SWFL is missing, using Smart Mode can permanently damage the module.
Always use Manual Mode to read and save data, not Smart Mode.
If the EEPROM is corrupted, try these steps:
1.Write the original EEPROM data back to the module.
2.If the original data is unavailable, use EEPROM data from another BMW X6 of the same model year, or replace the BDC entirely.
3.After writing the EEPROM data, reconnect the BDC to the car, open Expert Mode in Autel, and run the BDC repair function. Make sure the car has external power support.
4.If repair fails, try a different compatible EEPROM dump and repeat the repair process.
5.Once repaired, restore the coding and proceed to add the key—using Expert Mode only.
Important Tip for Reading EEPROM:
Whether you read the EEPROM on-board or remove it to read with an adapter like Autel XP400, always:
- Read the data manually through system selection.
- Open the file and take photos of the first and last sections of data.
- Read the EEPROM again and compare the new file with the photos. If they match, the read was successful. If not, repeat until you get a consistent read.
- Only use a verified good file for writing to avoid corrupting the EEPROM.
