In this guide, you will find instructions on how to change the key fob battery on multiple BMW keys. Scroll down to find the instructions for your BMW key.
Smart Key Battery Replacement
What you will need
This battery is a larger compared to a CR2032 battery.
Procedure
You will need to remove the metal blade key from the fob. The metal key can be used as a pry tool to open the key fob.
- Turn the BMW remote over. Look at the back of your BMW key. The BMW key battery is located under the back cover.
- Remove the battery cover.
- Remove the old battery. Simply lift the battery out-of-place to remove it.
- Install the new BMW key battery. Place the new BMW key battery in the place of the old battery. Do not force the battery in place. Only apply gentle pressure to the battery.
- Close the remote. Snap the cover back on the remote.
Comfort Access BMW Key Battery Replacement
This key is used in many BMW models including 1, 3, 5, 7, X3, X5, X6 Series.
What you will need
Procedure
If your key looks like this but the case won't open you may have the non-comfort access version which has a built-in rechargeable battery. For the rechargable BMW key see notes in the next section.
- Remove the valet key from the BMW key fob. This is the metal key blade that can be used in case of emergency to open your car door or trunk. To remove the valet key, you will need to press the small tab in the keyfob then pull the valet key.
- After you remove the valet key you will notice a small access port on the keyfob. Use the valet key or the flat screwdriver to remove the key battery cover.
- Once you remove the battery cover, you will see the battery. Remove the dead battery and install the new one. Press the battery cover on the key with your fingers. Reinsert the valet key.
Non Comfort Access Key Battery Replacement
BMW key that has the side indent has a rechargeable battery. It wasn't designed to be serviced that's why you can't open the case. This battery gets charged when it is inserted in the ignition.
If you are only taking short trips, you are not allowing enough time for the key to charge. Take at least a two hour or a longer trip to recharge this BMW key.
If the battery has completely died which is typical on a 10 year car, you can open the case but it will require cutting the plastic part of the key. You can replace the built-in battery with a new rechargeable 2032 battery.
Proccede with caution.
Diamond Key Battery Replacement
The battery in this key is not designed to be replaced. Yet, it is possible to replace the battery in this key by cutting the case and soldering a new battery. This procedure is not recommended by the manufacturer.
What you'll need
- VL2020 3 volt battery
- Sharp knife
- Soldering Iron
- Glue
Procedure
- Start cutting the key shell. It is easier to start at the back of the key. Very carefully cut around the perimeter of the key. Be extremely careful and avoid cutting yourself. Be careful that the knife doesn't slide. Do not cut too deep into the case or you risk damaging the circuit board.
- Once the key fob is exposed you will notice the battery soldered to the circuit board. Use a soldering iron to remove the battery. You could also use pliers or razor blade to cut the terminals that are soldered to the battery. This is not recommended.
- Solder the new battery in place. Always pay close attention to the orientation of the old battery. Verify that the positive and negative are oriented the correct way.
- Carefully put the key back together. Use your favorite glue to glue and seal the key case.
- Follow the re-initiate instructions below to program your BMW remote.
- Congratulations! You're done.
Applications
This guide covers all BMW keys and thus all models.
Show
2000-2010 E46 2000“2004E65/66/67/68 2002“2008 E85/E86 Z4 roadster/coupe 2002“2008 Z4 E83 X3 crossover SUV 2003“2010 X3 E60 5 series 2003“2010 E63/E64 convertible 2003“2011 E61 5 series 2004“2011 E70 X5 SUV 2006“2013 E71 X6 2008“2014 E81/E87 1 series 2004“2011 E82/E88 1 series 2007“2011 E90/E91/E92/E93 3 series 2005“2011 E84 X1 SUV 2009“present F01/F02/F03/F04 7 series 2008-2015 E89 Z4 roadster 2009“2016 F10 5 series 2009“present F11 5 series 2009“present F07 5 series 2009“present 2010-Present F12/F13 6 series 2011“present F20/F21 1 series 2011“present F25 X3 SUV 2011“present F30/F31 3 series 2012“present F34 3 series 2013“present F32/F33 4 series 2013“present F15 X5 SUV 2013“present F16 X6 SUV 2014“present i3 compact electric 2013“present F26 X4 crossover SUV 2014“present i8 electric 2014“present G11/G12 7 series 2015“present G30 5 series 2016“present
This guide covers all BMW key fobs including, comfort access key, smart BMW fob, and the rechargeable BMW key fobs.
FAQ
Do I need to program the key fob remote after I change the battery?
No. Most BMW key fobs will work after you replace the battery. No programming needed. The only exception is the rechargeable key and the instructions on how to program that key is included below.
HOW PROGRAM BMW REMOTE ( RE-INITIATE)
Follow these instructions to re-initiate the key to your BMW. You will need to follow these steps quickly. If you fail to program the key the first time, try again this time complete the steps faster.
- Insert the key into the ignition. Turn it to position II. All the dash lights should turn on, but don't' start the car. Only keep the key in position II for one second then remove the key.
- Next, press and hold the UNLOCK button. While you hold down the unlock button press the LOCK button 3 times. All the locks cycle through locking and unlocking on their own.
- Then turn key to position II then off again to finalize the programming.
What about rechargeable BMW keys?
Some BMW keys have rechargeable batteries that get charged via induction when inserted into the ignition. The rechargeable battery inside the BMW key will eventually stop holding a charge. Common problem if the key is over ten years old.
The BMW dealers will not service these keys. For example the diamond BMW key. That doesn't mean that you can't service these keys yourself. We will show you how to replace the battery even in the diamond BMW key fob. Don't rush and buy a new key. New BMW keys cost between $350 - $600 USD. You can save hundreds by replacing the BMW key fob battery yourself.
What battery do I need for my BMW Key?
BMW uses several battery types in their keyless remote. The most common battery types used in BMW keys are CR2032, 2025, 2020 and 2450.
My BMW key battery dead, what should I do?
Has the BMW key fob stopped locking and unlocking the doors? Maybe the key range is not very good. Or you may have a warning symbol on your dashboard. You will get a warning on your instrument cluster saying remote control battery discharged. To fix these problems you will need to replace the dead key fob battery. Once the BMW key fob battery dies, the keyless entry remote will stop working. While you won't be able to lock/unlock the key with the remote. At least you will still be able to start your BMW. Make sure to use a new lithium battery as those last much longer. Follow this how to replace BMW key fob battery guide.
Can you change BMW 1 3 5 6 7 Series key fob battery yourself?
Yes. Follow the instructions in this page to learn how to change the key battery on any BMW keyless remote.
What battery size do BMW cars use?
The most common battery sizes for BMW key fobs are 2020 and 2025.
Where can I find instructions on how to change BMW key battery myself.
Follow this tutorial which shows you how to change the battery on any BMW remote.
Can I change the rechargeable battery on a BMW remote?
Yes. You will need to cut the BMW key open. Then use a soldering iron to remove the old battery.
Changed BMW key battery, but it still doesn't work.
It is possible that your BMW is damaged. It may be necessary to contact your BMW dealer and ask for advice on how to resolve your issues with a key.
Can I replace a rechargeable battery in my BMW Key Fob?
Some BMW models such and e and 5 series E46 and E39 use rechargeable batteries. These batteries last longer but they may eventually die. They can be replaced but require special batteries.
How do you know if you have BMW comfort access key fob?
You have a comfort access key if you do not have to insert the key to start the car. Your BMW is equipped with the Start/Stop button.
My BMW key fob has a poor lock / unlock range.
If you are experiencing problems with range the most likely cause is the battery in your key fob needs to be replaced.
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Thank you!
Visitor
Member since 2020-07i have bmw 550i 08. this video didnt cover my model
Visitor
Member since 2020-07Did you look at video #1. That's the key 550i usually have.
Visitor
Member since 2020-07My extra key fob will not start car.. The fob I normally use is locked in trunk.. If I change battery in extra fob will I Be able to access car immediately? 2007 335i
Visitor
Member since 2020-07Opening the fob can be downright dangerous if you use bare hands . Wear work gloves preferably made of leather so that whatever sharp instrument one uses doesn't slice open your hand or finger. The other important thing that author doesn't say is that not all replacement vl2020 s are the same. Pay close attention to the solder tabs. Many replacement which claim BMW replacement aren't I the correct position and therefore won't fit properly. Way too many DIY videos online that don't provide a lot of vital information.
MBFanatic
Member since 2017-08Yes just put new batteries in the key fob and it should unlock the door.
Visitor
Member since 2020-07Battery for the E90 is not a CR2032 rechargeable (which doesn't exist). It's a VL2020
Visitor
Member since 2020-07Yes the diamond key the battery isn't supposed to be replaced but is possible as mentioned above
Visitor
Member since 2020-07What if my key doesn't start the car but it unlocks the doors and it's not my battery or nothing wrong with the car
Visitor
Member since 2020-07I have 2013 535ix but I cannot open fob to change battery Do I have a rechargeable battery or am I missing something to access the battery Thanks
MBFanatic
Member since 2017-08It can be a bad key or an issue with the ignition module.
Visitor
Member since 2020-07Are you talking about keyfobs with those without rechargeable battery? For my E39, both key fobs are sealed and cannot get to the batter unless it is cut opened. By key fob's battery is rechargeable and it gets it's charge when in the ignition with the Bimmer running. I just called my local Bimmer dealer, they said they do not replace the rechargeable battery, they would just go ahead and order a new master key fob.
Visitor
Member since 2020-07Can I just go to the BMW dealer and have them replace the battery in the FOB and/or resolve whatever issue is causing the FOB dash message ?
BMWadict
Member since 2017-08I was getting replace remote battery on the dashbaord. Changed the key fob battery and the message is now gone.
Visitor
Member since 2020-07I replaced the old battery in the key fob and nothing is working. I have been locked out of the car for 2 weeks while waiting for the battery to arrive. The outside lock is broken. I initially called the triple A road service and the young man who came out tried to get into the car using a small airbag to create a space then he used a long rod to try and open the door by pushing the button on the center console and when that didn't work he tried prying the handle inside to open the door. He was unsuccessful and then told me that I had to tow my car to the dealer. It's a 2001 BMW 325ci. After talking with a mechanic ( not with the dealer) he told me that the car goes into some kind of lock down if you try to get in and are unsuccessful. I watched your video and have now replaced the battery for my key fob ( I was only given one key when I got this car from a private owner) the battery I received I believe is rechargeable and may need to be recoded following the instructions above. I can't get into the car to put the key in the ignition. Should I break the window and get into the car as it would be cheaper to replace the window than what the dealer wants to replace the lock and make a new key. I'm dumbfounded. Help me please. This is the first time I've owned a BMW.
Visitor
Member since 2020-07it's funny. Next time, just let them do it. If u order it online, it costs you 15 bucks/battery. Just take it to the leader for 50 bucks. You don't have to be like this... BMW made it so compliated bc they want to make money from people. That's why... if u drive a luxury car, u have to spend money. Can't be cheap and lock yourself. Time is money baby
Visitor
Member since 2020-072007 530i, can't key the key fob apart? Doesn't appear to have a battery cover. Gentlemen I bought the car from says it can't be changed, is this correct?
Visitor
Member since 2020-07after changing the batterys in both my fobs they work for a couple of days then stop and if i take battery out and put it back again wait for 10 mins it works again any idea of the course ?
Visitor
Member since 2020-07The dealer wanted $50 to replace the battery in my BMW key. Thanks for saving me money and a trip to the dealership.
Visitor
Member since 2020-07Thank you for putting all the videos in one page. This makes it easy to figure out how to change the battery on any BMW model keyfob.