The remote keyless entry (RKE) system consists of a 3 button remote control transmitter and a receiver located on the instrument panel cluster. When you push any of the buttons on the transmitter, the remote control transmits a coded, ultra-high frequency signal to the receiver. This signal locks and unlocks the vehicle doors and releases the liftgate window (E54). The transmitter must be within 10 meters (33 ft) of the vehicle.

The transmitters are supplied in pairs with each vehicle. Each transmitter is hand-held, and attached to a key ring. Replacement transmitters are available, but each receiver will recognize only 2 transmitters. Therefore, if you replace the transmitters, you must match the replacement transmitters to a specific receiver. A 3 volt battery powers each transmitter. The transmitters are water resistant.

The RKE has no effect on the normal operation of the power door locks or the liftgate window release.