Replacing the battery in your BMW key is a simple and straightforward process that can be done in just a few minutes. If you’re experiencing issues with your key, such as it not working or the range being reduced, it’s likely that the battery needs to be replaced. In this article, we’ll provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to replace the battery in your BMW key, along with some tips and troubleshooting advice.
To begin, you’ll need to gather a few tools. You’ll need a small Phillips head screwdriver, a new CR2032 battery, and a clean cloth. Once you have your tools assembled, you can follow these steps: 1) Locate the small screw on the back of your key and remove it. 2) Carefully pry open the back of the key using the screwdriver. 3) Remove the old battery and insert the new one, making sure that the positive (+) side of the battery is facing up. 4) Close the back of the key and tighten the screw. 5) Test the key to make sure it’s working properly.
If you’re having trouble replacing the battery in your BMW key, there are a few things you can try. First, make sure that you’re using the correct type of battery. The CR2032 battery is the most common type of battery used in BMW keys. If you’re still having problems, you can try cleaning the battery contacts with a clean cloth. If that doesn’t work, you may need to take your key to a locksmith or BMW dealer to have it repaired.
Identifying the Battery Type
A BMW key utilizes a battery to power its electronic components. Replacing a BMW key battery is a simple and affordable task. The first step is identifying the battery type used in a particular BMW key. There are three common types of batteries used in BMW keys: CR2032, CR2025, and CR1620.
To determine the battery type, follow these steps:
- Locate the small, circular battery compartment on the back or side of the key fob.
- Use a small flat-head screwdriver or a key to gently pry open the compartment.
- Remove the old battery and inspect it. The battery type will be printed on the battery’s surface.
- Compare the battery type to the table below to determine the correct replacement battery:
| BMW Key Type | Battery Type |
|---|---|
| Standard Key Fob | CR2032 |
| Comfort Access Key Fob | CR2025 |
| Display Key Fob | CR1620 |
Gathering Essential Tools
Replacing the battery in your BMW key is a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few minutes. Before you begin, you will need to gather the following tools:
Phillips head screwdriver
A small Phillips head screwdriver is required to remove the screws that hold the key together. If you do not have a Phillips head screwdriver, you can purchase one at any hardware store.
Flathead screwdriver
A small flathead screwdriver can be used to pry open the key housing. Be careful not to damage the key housing when using a flathead screwdriver.
New battery
You will need a new CR2032 battery to replace the old battery in your key. CR2032 batteries are available at most hardware stores and online retailers.
Once you have gathered all of the necessary tools, you can begin the process of replacing the battery in your BMW key.
Replacement Battery Specifications
| Battery Type | Voltage | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| CR2032 | 3V | 230mAh |
Locating the Key Battery Housing
Identifying the battery housing on your BMW key is crucial before proceeding with the replacement process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you locate the battery housing:
- Identify the Release Button: Most BMW keys feature a small button or lever on the back or side of the key fob. Locate this release button and press it.
- Separate the Key Blade: Once the release button is pressed, the key blade (the metal part that fits into the ignition) will detach from the key fob.
- Find the Key Fob Cover: The key fob cover typically consists of two plastic pieces that are held together by screws or clips. Carefully locate and remove these screws or clips to separate the two halves of the key fob cover.
Once you have separated the key fob cover, you will have access to the battery housing. It is typically a small, rectangular or circular compartment that houses the battery. The battery may be secured by a small latch or clip, so gently pry it out of its housing using a thin tool or your fingernail.
| BMW Key Model | Battery Housing Location |
|---|---|
| 3 Series (2006-2012) | Inside the key fob cover, beneath the circuit board |
| 5 Series (2003-2010) | Inside the key fob cover, on the side opposite the key blade |
| X5 (2000-2006) | Inside the key fob cover, beneath a small cover secured by a screw |
Prying Open the Housing
To replace the BMW key battery, you’ll need to first pry open the housing. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Tools Required
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Small flat-head screwdriver | To pry open the housing |
Steps
- Locate the small notch on the back of the key housing.
- Insert the screwdriver into the notch and gently pry open the housing.
- Be careful not to damage the key housing or its components.
- Once the housing is open, locate the battery. It will usually be a small, round CR2032 battery. Carefully remove the old battery using a pair of tweezers or your fingers.
- Place the new battery into the housing, making sure that the positive (+) side faces up.
- Close the housing by snapping it back into place.
- Test the key to make sure it’s working properly.
Removing the Old Battery
1. Insert the key into the ignition, but do not turn it on.
2. Press the button on the back of the key to release the mechanical key.
3. Pull out the mechanical key.
4 Flip the key over and locate the key battery door.
5. Use a small flathead screwdriver to carefully pry open the key battery door, paying attention not to damage the door or the key itself. Note that some key battery doors may be latched – simply use your fingernail or a small tool to unlatch it.
6. Remove the old battery from its compartment.
| Battery Type | BMW Models |
|---|---|
| CR2025 | Older BMW models |
| CR2032 | Newer BMW models |
Inserting the New Battery
1. Orient the battery correctly within the key, ensuring the positive (+) side faces upwards. The positive side typically features a raised or protruding contact point.
2. Carefully insert the new battery into the designated slot. Apply gentle pressure to ensure it seats securely, but avoid excessive force that could damage the battery or key.
3. Check the polarity of the battery in relation to the key’s contacts. Ensure the positive (+) terminal on the battery aligns with the corresponding positive contact in the key.
4. Double-check the battery’s orientation and polarity to prevent any potential issues.
5. Replace the key’s back cover or housing by aligning it correctly and applying firm but gentle pressure until it snaps securely into place.
6. Verify Battery Life: After inserting the new battery, test the key’s functionality by pressing buttons and performing locking/unlocking operations. Observe if the key operates as expected and the battery life indicator on the dashboard displays a sufficient level. If the key still malfunctions or the battery indicator remains low, consider replacing the battery with a fresh one or consulting a professional for further troubleshooting.
Closing the Housing Securely
Once the battery has been replaced, it’s time to close the housing securely. This is done by following these 7 steps:
- Align the housing pieces so that the key blade is facing up.
- Press the housing pieces together firmly until they snap into place.
- Check to make sure that the housing is closed securely by pressing on it gently.
- Push the key into the fob to test it.
- If the key works, then the housing is closed securely.
- If the key does not work, then repeat steps 1-3 until the housing is closed securely.
- Once the housing is closed securely, the key can be used as normal.
Tips for Replacing the Battery
- Make sure that you have the correct battery for your BMW key.
- Replace the battery as soon as possible after it starts to die.
- Be careful not to damage the key or the housing when replacing the battery.
- If you are not comfortable replacing the battery yourself, you can take your key to a locksmith or BMW dealership.
Table of BMW Key Battery Replacements
| BMW Model | Key Battery |
|---|---|
| 3 Series | CR2032 |
| 5 Series | CR2025 |
| 7 Series | CR2016 |
| X Series | CR2025 |
| Z Series | CR2025 |
Verifying Battery Function
Before replacing the battery, it’s crucial to verify that the malfunction is indeed due to a depleted battery. Here are some steps to do this:
1. Check the Battery Indicator
Some BMW models have a battery indicator on the dashboard. If the indicator is illuminated, it’s a clear sign that the battery is low and needs to be replaced.
2. Test the Key Fob
Try using the key fob to unlock and lock the car. If the buttons are unresponsive or the range is reduced, it suggests a battery issue.
3. Examine the Key Fob
Inspect the key fob for any signs of damage, such as cracks or visible corrosion on the battery terminals. If any damage is observed, it’s best to replace the key fob instead of just the battery.
4. Use a Voltmeter
For a more precise measurement, use a voltmeter to check the battery voltage. A healthy battery should measure around 3 volts or higher. Batteries with a voltage below 2.8 volts are considered depleted and need replacement.
5. Tap the Battery Gently
Gently tap the battery with a small object. If the battery is loose within the key fob, it may not be making proper contact and causing intermittent issues.
6. Check for Debris
Inspect the battery terminals for any debris or corrosion. Clean the terminals with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol if necessary.
7. Try a Spare Key
If available, try using a spare key fob to confirm if the issue is with the key fob or the car’s receiver. If the spare key works normally, it’s likely a battery issue.
8. Troubleshooting Additional Issues
In some cases, even after replacing the battery, the key fob may still not function properly. Here are some additional troubleshooting steps:
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Key fob not responding | Weak battery or battery not making proper contact | Ensure the battery is inserted correctly and replace if necessary |
| Intermittent key fob operation | Loose battery or faulty key fob | Tighten or replace the battery. If the issue persists, consider replacing the key fob |
| Shortened key fob range | Weak battery or interference from other electronic devices | Replace the battery and move away from potential sources of interference |
Replacing the Smart Key Battery
1. Locate the small button located at the top of the key.
2. Press the button and slide the key blade out.
3. Use a flathead screwdriver to pry open the battery cover on the back of the key.
4. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new CR2032 battery.
5. Close the battery cover and slide the key blade back into place.
Replacing the Key Blade (Optional)
1. Use a flathead screwdriver to remove the two screws located on the back of the key.
2. Separate the two halves of the key and remove the old key blade.
3. Insert the new key blade into the key housing.
4. Reassemble the key and tighten the two screws.
Programming the New Key
1. Insert the new key into the ignition and turn it to the “On” position.
2. Remove the key and then reinsert it within 10 seconds.
3. Turn the key to the “On” position again.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 two more times.
5. Your new key should now be programmed.
| Battery Type | CR2032 |
|---|---|
| Location | Back of the key |
| Replacement Interval | Every 2-3 years |
How to Replace the Battery in a BMW Key
Replacing the battery in a BMW key is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes with minimal tools. Follow these steps to replace the battery in your BMW key:
- Hold the key with the buttons facing you.
- Locate the small notch near the top of the key.
- Insert a small screwdriver or key into the notch and gently pry the two halves of the key apart.
- Locate the battery inside the key.
- Use a small screwdriver or key to pry the battery out of its slot.
- Insert the new battery into the slot, making sure that the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals are aligned correctly.
- Snap the two halves of the key back together.
- Test the key to make sure it is working properly.
- Avoid exposing the key to extreme temperatures.
- Do not use the key as a keychain.
- If you are not using the key, store it in a cool, dry place.
- Do not press the buttons on the key unnecessarily.
- Clean the key regularly with a soft, dry cloth.
- Replace the battery in the key every two to three years.
- If the battery in the key dies, you can still use the key to unlock the car door manually.
- To manually unlock the car door, insert the key into the lock and turn it to the left.
- Once the car door is unlocked, you can open the door by pulling on the handle.
- If you have any questions about replacing the battery in your BMW key, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or contact a BMW dealership.
Tips for Extended Battery Life
How To Replace Bmw Key Battery
Replacing the battery in your BMW key is a simple process that can be done in a few minutes. Here are the steps:
1. Locate the small release button on the back of the key. Press and hold the button while pulling the key apart.
2. Once the key is apart, you will see the battery. Use a small screwdriver or your fingernail to pry the battery out of its compartment.
3. Insert the new battery into the compartment, making sure that the positive (+) terminal of the battery is facing up.
4. Snap the key back together and test it to make sure it is working properly.
