1. How to Change a BMW Key Fob Battery

Changing the battery in your BMW key fob is a simple process that can be completed in just a few minutes. If your key fob is no longer working, or if the range is decreased, it may be time to replace the battery.

First, you’ll need a new battery. The type of battery you need will depend on the model of your BMW. You can check your owner’s manual or online to find the correct battery type. Once you have the new battery, follow these steps to replace the old one:

1. Locate the key fob’s battery compartment. This is usually located on the back of the fob.
2. Use a small screwdriver or other tool to pry open the battery compartment.
3. Remove the old battery and insert the new battery. Make sure that the positive and negative terminals are aligned correctly.
4. Close the battery compartment and test the key fob to make sure it’s working properly.

Identifying the Correct Key Fob Battery for Your BMW Model

The key fob battery is a small, but crucial component that powers your BMW’s keyless entry and ignition systems. Identifying the correct replacement battery for your specific BMW model is essential to ensure proper operation. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you determine the exact battery type you need:

BMW Key Fob Battery Types

BMW Model	Key Fob Battery Type
BMW 1 Series (E81, E82, E87, E88)	CR2032
BMW 3 Series (E90, E91, E92, E93)	CR2025
BMW 5 Series (E60, E61)	CR2025
BMW 7 Series (E65, E66, E67, E68)	CR2450
BMW X5 (E53)	CR2032
BMW X6 (E71)	CR2025

To determine the battery type for your BMW fob, you can consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual, refer to the table above, or visit a BMW dealership or authorized service center. It’s important to use the correct battery type as incorrect batteries may not provide sufficient power or may damage the key fob.

Once you have identified the correct key fob battery, you can proceed with the replacement process. Follow the instructions in the next section to safely and effectively replace the battery in your BMW key fob.

Gathering Necessary Tools and Safety Precautions

Necessary Tools:

* New CR2025 or CR2032 battery (check your key fob’s user manual for the specific type)
* Small screwdriver (Phillips head or flathead)
* Optional: Gloves (to prevent fingerprints on the battery)

Safety Precautions:

* Avoid getting the battery in contact with moisture or dirt.
* Do not use a sharp object to pry open the key fob, as this may damage the case or internal components.
* Handle the battery carefully, as it can be easily damaged.
* If the battery leaks or becomes damaged, do not touch it and dispose of it properly.
* Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a reliable automotive technical resource for specific instructions and safety guidelines.

Locating and Accessing the Key Fob Battery Compartment

Finding the hidden battery compartment is a crucial step. Most BMW key fobs feature a physical key hidden inside. To locate it, press the small button on the back or side of the fob, slide the exposed key out, and flip the metal key over. Alternatively, some models may require you to look for a tiny notch or indentation along the perimeter of the fob. Insert the metal key into this notch and gently pry the fob apart. Once the fob is open, you’ll reveal the battery compartment.

Battery Compartment Table

| BMW Key Fob Models | Battery Type |
|—|—|
| E39, E46, E53, E60, E65, E66, E67, E87, E90, E91, E92, E93 | CR2032 |
| F10, F20, F30, F32, F33, F34, F36, F45, F48, F87 | CR2450 |
| G20, G21, G22, G23, G30, G31, G32, G38 | CR2025 |

Carefully Removing the Old Battery

Locate the battery compartment

The battery compartment is typically located inside the key fob. You can usually find it by looking for a small, round or rectangular cover that can be pryed open or unscrewed.

Pry open the battery compartment

Use a small screwdriver or a key to gently pry open the battery cover. Be careful not to damage the cover or the key fob.

Remove the old battery

Once you have opened the battery compartment, you will need to remove the old battery. Be careful not to touch the metal contacts on the battery with your fingers, as this can damage the battery.

Disconnect the battery terminal

Some key fobs have a battery terminal that needs to be disconnected before you can remove the battery. To disconnect the battery terminal, use a small screwdriver or a key to gently pry the terminal away from the battery.

Replace the old battery with a new one

Insert the new battery into the battery compartment. Make sure that the positive terminal (+) on the battery is facing the positive terminal (+) in the compartment.

Reconnect the battery terminal

If your key fob has a battery terminal, reconnect the terminal to the battery.

Close the battery compartment

Close the battery compartment cover and make sure that it is securely closed.

Inserting the New Battery with Proper Polarity

Replacing the BMW key fob battery is a simple task that can be completed in a matter of minutes. Once you have gathered the necessary tools and materials, follow these steps to insert the new battery with proper polarity:

1. Insert the key into the fob opening. There will be a keyhole on the side of the fob. Insert the key into the keyhole and turn it counterclockwise to release the battery housing.

2. Open the battery housing. Once the battery housing is released, pull it open to reveal the battery compartment.

3. Locate the old battery. The old battery will be held in place by a metal clip. Use a small screwdriver or your fingernail to pry the clip away from the battery.

4. Remove the old battery. Once the clip is removed, the battery can be easily lifted out of the battery compartment.

5. Insert the new battery. The new battery must be inserted with the positive (+) side facing up. The positive terminal on the battery will be marked with a plus sign (+), and the negative terminal will be marked with a minus sign (-). If the battery is not inserted with the correct polarity, it will not work.

Model	Battery
E38, E39, E46, E53, E60, E61, E63, E64, E65, E66, E67, E70, E71, E84, E87, E88, E89, E90, E91, E92, E93	CR2032
F01, F02, F03, F04, F06, F07, F10, F11, F12, F13, F18, F20, F21, F22, F23, F25, F26, F30, F31, F32, F33, F34, F35, F36, F48, F49	CR2025
G01, G02, G05, G06, G07, G11, G12, G14, G20, G21, G22, G23, G29, G30, G31, G32, G38	CR2032
i3, i8	CR2025

6. Close the battery housing. Once the new battery is inserted, close the battery housing and press down until it snaps into place.

7. Turn the key clockwise to lock the battery housing.

Your BMW key fob battery has now been replaced. Test the key fob to make sure that it is working properly.

Reassembling and Closing the Battery Compartment

Once the new battery is in place, it’s time to reassemble the battery compartment and close it securely. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide:

1. Align the Battery Cover:

Position the battery cover over the compartment, aligning the grooves and tabs on the cover with their corresponding slots on the compartment.

2. Lock the Battery Cover:

Apply gentle pressure to the battery cover until you hear a click, indicating that it has locked into place. Ensure the cover is flush with the housing.

3. Realign the Emergency Key:

Locate the emergency key hole on the battery compartment. Insert the emergency key and align it with the keyhole groove.

4. Pull Out the Emergency Key:

Once the emergency key is aligned, pull it out. This will release the locking mechanism and allow you to remove the key fob from the cover.

5. Test the Key Fob:

Before closing the cover completely, test the key fob buttons to ensure they are working properly. Press each button multiple times to verify functionality.

6. Close the Battery Cover:

Once you have verified that the key fob is functioning correctly, close the battery cover completely. Apply pressure until you hear a secure click, ensuring the cover is fully engaged.

**Additional Tips:**

If you encounter any resistance or difficulty while reassembling the battery compartment, do not force it. Align the components carefully and apply gentle pressure.
If the key fob is still not working after replacing the battery, consider checking for other potential issues, such as a faulty button or an electrical problem.

Testing the Key Fob’s Functionality

Before proceeding with the battery replacement, it is crucial to ensure that the key fob’s malfunction is indeed caused by a depleted battery. Here’s how to test its functionality:

1. Observe the LED Lights

Press any button on the key fob and observe the LED lights. If they fail to illuminate or flicker weakly, it may indicate a low battery level.

2. Check the Range

Stand away from your BMW at a distance of approximately 10 meters. Press the unlock button and try to unlock the vehicle remotely. If the vehicle fails to respond, it could be a sign of a weak battery.

3. Test the Remote Trunk Release

If your key fob has a dedicated trunk release button, press it and observe if the trunk unlocks remotely. Failure to open the trunk may indicate a battery issue.

4. Inspect the Physical Condition

Examine the key fob for any visible damage, such as dents or cracks. These could hinder the battery’s performance or prevent it from making proper contact.

5. Use a Diagnostic Tool

Certain BMW models may support a key fob diagnostic function. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine if this feature is available. If so, use the diagnostic tool to check the key fob’s status and battery level.

6. Reset the Key Fob

In some cases, a simple reset of the key fob may resolve functionality issues. Refer to your BMW’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on resetting the key fob.

7. Conduct a More Thorough Test

If the above tests yield inconclusive results, consider conducting a more thorough test. Visit an authorized BMW dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith. They have specialized equipment that can accurately diagnose key fob functionality and battery health.

Troubleshooting Common Key Fob Battery Issues

Key Fob Not Working

Check the battery first. Replace it if necessary. If the battery is new, try cleaning the contact points on the fob and in the car. You can also try resetting the fob by following the instructions in your car’s owner’s manual.

Key Fob Intermittently Working

This could be a sign of a weak battery. Try replacing the battery with a new one. If the problem persists, there may be an issue with the fob’s electronics. You may need to have it repaired or replaced.

Key Fob Range Reduced

This could be due to a number of factors, including:

Cause	Solution
Weak battery	Replace the battery with a new one.
Interference from other electronic devices	Move the fob away from other electronic devices, such as cell phones or laptops.
Damaged antenna	If the antenna is damaged, you will need to have it repaired or replaced.

Key Fob Buttons Not Working

This could be a sign of a problem with the fob’s electronics. You may need to have it repaired or replaced.

How to Change a BMW Key Fob Battery

Replacing your BMW key fob battery is a simple task that anyone can do at home. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

You’ll need a small Phillips-head screwdriver and a new CR2032 battery.

Step 2: Remove the Key Blade

Use the screwdriver to remove the two screws holding the key blade in place. Pull the blade straight out.

Step 3: Open the Key Fob

Insert the screwdriver into the notch on the side of the key fob and gently pry it open.

Step 4: Locate the Battery

The battery is usually held in place by a metal clip or tape. Remove the battery

Step 5: Insert the New Battery

Insert the new battery with the positive side facing up. Make sure it fits snugly in the compartment.

Step 6: Close the Key Fob

Snap the key fob back together and replace the screws.

Step 7: Test the Key Fob

Press a button on the key fob to make sure it’s working properly.

Additional Tips for Maximizing Key Fob Battery Life

Here are some tips to help extend the life of your key fob battery:

Avoid Extreme Temperatures

Extreme heat or cold can damage the battery. Store your key fob in a cool, dry place.

Don’t Press Buttons Unnecessarily

Only press the buttons on your key fob when you need to. Pressing them too often can drain the battery.

Keep the Key Fob Away from Metal Objects

Storing your key fob near metal objects, such as coins or keys, can cause the battery to drain.

Replace the Battery Regularly

Even if your key fob is still working, it’s a good idea to replace the battery every 6 months to 1 year to prevent it from dying unexpectedly.

Use a CR2032 Battery

Make sure to use a CR2032 battery when replacing the battery in your key fob. Other types of batteries may not fit or work properly.

Troubleshooting:

Problem	Solution
Key fob not working	Replace the battery.
Battery draining quickly	Check for extreme temperatures or metal objects near the key fob.
Cannot open the key fob	Use the screwdriver to gently pry the fob open.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

To change the battery in your BMW key fob, you will need the following tools and materials:

A flathead screwdriver
A new CR2032 battery
A soft cloth or paper towel

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to change the battery in your BMW key fob:

Locate the release button.

On most BMW key fobs, the release button is located on the back of the fob. It is usually a small, recessed button that you can press with the tip of a pen or a small object.

Press the release button and pull the key fob apart.

Once you have located the release button, press it and pull the key fob apart. The fob should come apart easily into two pieces.

Remove the old battery.

Once you have separated the key fob, you will see the old battery. Use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry the old battery out of its compartment.

Insert the new battery.

Take the new CR2032 battery and insert it into the compartment. Make sure that the positive (+) side of the battery is facing up.

Snap the key fob back together.

Once you have inserted the new battery, snap the key fob back together. Make sure that the two pieces fit together snugly.

Test the key fob.

Once you have snapped the key fob back together, test it to make sure that it is working properly. Press the buttons on the fob and see if the lights come on or if the car responds.

Dispose of the old battery safely.

Once you have changed the battery, dispose of the old battery safely. Do not throw the old battery in the trash, as it can leak and cause damage.

Clean the key fob.

While you have the key fob apart, take a moment to clean it. Use a soft cloth or paper towel to wipe away any dirt or debris.

Apply silicone lubricant to the battery contacts.

To help prevent the battery from corroding and to ensure that the key fob continues to work properly, apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the battery contacts.

10.

Store the key fob in a cool, dry place.

When you are not using the key fob, store it in a cool, dry place. This will help to extend the life of the battery.

When to Seek Professional Assistance

In most cases, you can change the battery in your BMW key fob yourself. However, there are some cases in which you may need to seek professional assistance. These cases include:

If you are not comfortable working with small electronics.
If you cannot get the key fob apart.
If you cannot get the old battery out of the compartment.
If you cannot insert the new battery correctly.
If the key fob does not work properly after you have changed the battery.
If you have any other problems changing the battery in your BMW key fob.

If you encounter any of these problems, you should take your car to a qualified mechanic or locksmith. They will be able to safely and properly change the battery in your key fob.

How To Change A Bmw Key Fob Battery

The battery in your BMW key fob is responsible for powering the various electronic functions of the fob, including the buttons, the display, and the wireless transmitter. Over time, the battery will eventually lose its power and need to be replaced. Here are the steps on how to change a BMW key fob battery:

Gather your materials. You will need a new CR2032 battery and a small screwdriver.
Locate the battery compartment. The battery compartment is usually located on the back of the key fob. There may be a small screw or latch that you need to remove to open the compartment.
Remove the old battery. Once you have opened the battery compartment, you will see the old battery. Use the screwdriver to carefully pry the battery out of the compartment.
Insert the new battery. Take the new battery and insert it into the compartment with the positive side facing up.
Close the battery compartment. Once you have inserted the new battery, close the battery compartment and tighten the screw or latch.
Test the key fob. Once you have replaced the battery, test the key fob to make sure that it is working properly. Press the buttons and make sure that the display is working.