Follow along with the video below to see how to install our site as a web app on your home screen.
Note: This feature may not be available in some browsers.
Normal
The physical key does not require power. Every year since 2015 except for 2020 and 2024, I have stored our i3's for 3 to 9 months each time while we traveled internationally. I always disconnect the negative 12V battery cable emulating your "no 12V power" scenario. I don't close the frunk completely so that I can open it when I return without having to use its emergency opening cable. The final steps are carefully open the unlocked driver's door because its window won't drop without power, lock the passenger door from inside the car, exit the car and carefully close the driver's door, and then use the physical key to lock the driver's door. Upon return, I have always been able to unlock the driver's door with the physical key.As much as you don't want me to change your scenario, your scenario is unrealistic. If you lose the physical key, entering a powerless i3 would be difficult without breaking a window. If this is a concern, attach a 12V battery charging harness to the 12V terminals in the motor compartment below the cargo area floor. Secure the end of this charging harness somewhere underneath the car within easy reach from the back of the car. You could then attach a 12V battery or charger to the charging harness which should bring an i3 back to life so that you could enter it with a fob.
The physical key does not require power. Every year since 2015 except for 2020 and 2024, I have stored our i3's for 3 to 9 months each time while we traveled internationally. I always disconnect the negative 12V battery cable emulating your "no 12V power" scenario. I don't close the frunk completely so that I can open it when I return without having to use its emergency opening cable. The final steps are carefully open the unlocked driver's door because its window won't drop without power, lock the passenger door from inside the car, exit the car and carefully close the driver's door, and then use the physical key to lock the driver's door. Upon return, I have always been able to unlock the driver's door with the physical key.
As much as you don't want me to change your scenario, your scenario is unrealistic. If you lose the physical key, entering a powerless i3 would be difficult without breaking a window. If this is a concern, attach a 12V battery charging harness to the 12V terminals in the motor compartment below the cargo area floor. Secure the end of this charging harness somewhere underneath the car within easy reach from the back of the car. You could then attach a 12V battery or charger to the charging harness which should bring an i3 back to life so that you could enter it with a fob.
