When you need BMW key fob battery replacement when the old one runs out of juice, it’s impossible to conveniently unlock your doors, lock up securely, and pop open the trunk. Thankfully, you can get it working right once again by replacing its battery with a new one. You just need a screwdriver and the correct battery.
What battery does the BMW key fob use?
Well, that depends on which BMW key fob you have. The smart key uses the CR2450, while the comfort access and sleek, slant-shaped fobs require the CR2032. The other key fob styles have non-replaceable batteries.
Where Can I Find a New Battery and What Will it Cost?
You can find the CR2450 and CR2032 3-volt batteries at your office supply store, hardware store, or other local retailer. Just look in the battery section near the other button batteries.
They’re widely available online as well. Target, Zoro, and Home Depot all carry the CR2450 battery in single packs. If you need the CR2032, you can look at Lowes, Best Buy, and even Petco.
If you have a diamond key fob or non-comfort access remote, you cannot easily replace the batteries. The non-comfort access model is rechargeable and should refill its battery while you drive. Once that battery wears out, you have to buy a new key fob.
The diamond key fob also requires replacement when the battery dies since it’s impossible to change without soldering the battery connections. Your local dealership can help you replace either of these key fobs, though they may need to order them if they’re not in stock.
How to Replace the BMW Key Fob Battery
When it comes to the BMW key fobs with replaceable batteries, the replacement process is quite similar for each one. Just follow these steps to get the job done.
1. Pull out the Metal Key
Before you can open the case to get to the battery inside, you must remove the metal key. Find the button near where that key flips out of the case. Then, press it down while gently pulling the key away from the case.
The entire key assembly should pull free with ease. If you feel any resistance, push down on the button more and try again.
2. Pop Open the Case
Look at the end of the case where the key was for a small open area along the seam. Put the tip of your flathead screwdriver into that opening and carefully pry upward.
The case should immediately come apart, revealing the battery inside. If not, reposition the screwdriver and repeat the process until the case opens.
3. Remove and Replace the Old Battery
With your screwdriver in hand, pry under the battery to slowly pull it out of the divot. Immediately throw the old battery in a garbage bin that kids and pets cannot access.
Put in the new battery and make sure it faces the same direction as the old one. The battery doesn’t click in place, so hold the remote steady while you reassemble the case.
4. Reassemble the Case and Test
Put the case back together by lining up both sides and squeezing them together. You should hear a light click when it seats back in place. Then, you can push the metal key section back into the rest of the case to complete the battery change process.
Once you have your key fob reassembled, head outside to your 2016 X6 or other BMW to see if it works. Make sure to hit each button and verify that the car unlocks, pops the trunk, and completes all the other expected tasks. If it doesn’t work right, plan to make a trip to the dealership to see if you need to replace the key fob outright.
