In this guide, we show you how to manually start a BMW that has a dead key fob. If the batteries in your BMW remote have died, you will not be able to start the car or unlock the doors using the keyless feature. Can't start BMW with key; BMW key battery dead can't start the car; Comfort Access key does not work; How to Manually Start. Jul 13, 2015 This is a DIY guide to replacing BMW (E90 E91 E92 E93) Key battery in one minute. If your key fob has died and the key doesn't open doors remotely, the reason is 99% the battery. Keyless Remote and Key Programming Available for the following BMW models. Click below to select your model. I didn't know there were different types of key fobs like that! I've got comfort access, so the fob stays in my pocket all the time. I just put a new battery in the fob. The car told me the batter was low! Gotta love those control indicators. Comfort access is absolutely great. You can have your nav package. Supreme Locksmith will come to your location, and will cut a new key from scratch right there. We can also program a remote or make any fob or keyless entry remote. We Can also also erase the old key and prevent it from being able to start the car in case your old key fell to the wrong hands.
- How To Program Bmw Key Fob E90
- Bmw Remote Key Battery Replacement
- How To Program A Bmw E90 Key Fob
- 2015 Bmw Key Fob Battery
The German car giant loves its key fobs to start its cars. It’s been doing keyless start and entry for 20+ years. BMW key fob batteries need replacement every 3-5 years depending on usage. I got 5 years from my first battery for my X3 before needing to replace it.
Sedan Models
SUV / X-Series Models
Key Fob Remotes
BMW has made about 10 different types of key fobs over the years. Find videos on how to change the battery for each on the individual car page, or below the table.
- U Shaped Key
- Diamond Shape Key – Battery: VL2020
- Rectangular Shape Key (comfort access) – Battery: CR2032
- Rectangular Shape Key (non-comfort access) – Battery: VL2020
- Trapezoid Shape Key – Battery: CR2450
- Sleek Slant Shaped Key – Battery: CR2032
- T Shape Key (comfort access) – Battery: CR2032
- T Shape Key (non-comfort access) – Battery: VL2020
- i Key
- Display Key
I created a guide to show how to change the battery in BMW comfort access key remotes vs non-comfort access fobs.
| Picture | Key | Years | Buy Battery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diamond Shape Key | 90-early 2000s | VL2020 | |
| Rectangular Shape Key (Comfort Access) | 2000s | CR2032 | |
| Rectangular Shape Key (Non-Comfort Access) | 2000s | VL2020 | |
| Trapezoid Shape Key | 2011-2017 | CR2450 | |
| Sleek Slant Shaped Key | 2017-Present | CR2032 | |
| T Shape Key (Comfort Access) | 2002-2008 | CR2032 | |
| T Shape Key (Non-Comfort Access) | 2002-2008 | VL2020 | |
| U Shaped Key | early 90s | ||
| i Key | 2013-Present | ||
| Display Key | 2016-Present |
How to change the battery in the diamond shaped BMW key fob
Watch this video on YouTube Keyecu VL2020 Remote Key Rechargeable Battery for BMW E46 E60 E92 3 328 330 X5 (90 degree Leg)
- Battery Model: VL2020
- Please compare the leg position carefully,this battery is 90 degrees leg
- it is a Rechargeable battery
How to change the battery in the Rectangular Shape Key (comfort access) BMW key fob
How To Program Bmw Key Fob E90
Watch this video on YouTube Keyecu VL2020 Remote Key Rechargeable Battery for BMW E46 E60 E92 3 328 330 X5 (90 degree Leg) - Battery Model: VL2020
- Please compare the leg position carefully,this battery is 90 degrees leg
- it is a Rechargeable battery
How to change the battery in the Rectangular Shape Key (non-comfort access) BMW key fob
Watch this video on YouTube AmazonBasics CR2032 3 Volt Lithium Coin Cell Battery - 4-Pack
- 4-pack of lithium coin cell batteries; CR2032 cell size
- 8-year leak-free shelf life, ideal for watches, calculators, key fobs, Apple TV remotes, and other small electronics
- Replacement for BR2032, DL2032, and ECR2032
How to change the battery in the Trapezoid Shape BMW Key Fob
Watch this video on YouTubeSale Energizer Lithium Coin Blister Pack Watch/Electronic Batteries, 1 Count (Pack of 2)
- Pack of 2 batteries
- Lithium coin batteries for watches and electronic devices
- Has a power of 3 volts
How to change the battery in the Sleek Slant Shaped Key BMW key fob
This BMW Key Fob and Battery were popular in 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 F-Series Models like the 3, 5, 7 series and the X3.
Battery: CR2032
Watch this video on YouTube AmazonBasics CR2032 3 Volt Lithium Coin Cell Battery - 4-Pack
- 4-pack of lithium coin cell batteries; CR2032 cell size
- 8-year leak-free shelf life, ideal for watches, calculators, key fobs, Apple TV remotes, and other small electronics
- Replacement for BR2032, DL2032, and ECR2032
How to change the battery in the T Shape Key (comfort access) BMW key fob
Watch this video on YouTube Keyecu VL2020 Remote Key Rechargeable Battery for BMW E46 E60 E92 3 328 330 X5 (90 degree Leg)
- Battery Model: VL2020
- Please compare the leg position carefully,this battery is 90 degrees leg
- it is a Rechargeable battery
How to change the battery in the T Shape Key (non-comfort access) BMW key fob
Watch this video on YouTube AmazonBasics CR2032 3 Volt Lithium Coin Cell Battery - 4-Pack
- 4-pack of lithium coin cell batteries; CR2032 cell size
- 8-year leak-free shelf life, ideal for watches, calculators, key fobs, Apple TV remotes, and other small electronics
- Replacement for BR2032, DL2032, and ECR2032
Frequently Asked Questions
What battery goes in BMW key?The battery for your key depends on the key fob. But the most common BMW key batteries are 3v coin batteries like the: CR2032, CR2450 and the rechargeable VL2020.
How much does it cost to replace a BMW car key?BMW car keys must be programmed, this is usually done at a BMW dealership. When I lost a key, it cost roughly $400 to have the dealership program a new key. I had to give them a copy of my drivers license and registration as well. Not cheap.
How do I charge my BMW key?If you have a key fob with a rechargeable battery, the VL2020, your key will charge when it is placed into the ignition of your BMW vehicle. The VL2020 can eventually go bad, and to replace it you’ll need a soldering kit. Check out one of our videos to see how to replace a rechargeable key battery.
How do you change the battery in a 2011 BMW key fob?The year isn’t so much as important the type of BMW key fob type. Different vehicles and even the same model will often use multiple or different fob types. See our table above with pictures of every fob type. It’s likely for 2011 you have a CR 2450, but double check above.
In the good old days when your BMW battery died one could go to the local auto shop, pick up a new one, replace it at home and get back on the road. Unfortunately, with the late model BMW's battery replacement is not as simple yesteryears. The new batteries need to be replaced by a dealer or qualified Euro specialist with the right tools to either register or program the car to your new battery. Failure to do so can result in overcharging of your new battery or even electrical malfunction.
What model BMW’s need to have their batteries reprogrammed or registered?
- 2002 and newer 7-Series E65/E66 chassis
- 2003 and newer 6-Series E63/E64 chassis
- 2004 and newer 5-Series E60/E61 chassis
- 2005 and newer X5 E53 chassis with N62 engine
- 2006 and newer 3-Series E90/E91/E92/E93 chassis
- 2007 and newer X5 E70 chassis
- 2008 and newer X6 E71 chassis
Why do new model BMW’s need battery programming and old ones do not?
The newer BMW models listed above are significantly more advanced electronically than models from the 1990s and older. All of the advancement is ultimately pushed forward in the name of improving gas mileage. The newer models are equipped with IBS or Intelligent Battery Sensors. The IBS system is attached to the negative battery terminal and contains micro processors which measure and monitor voltage, current, charge and discharge as well as temperature of the battery.
How does the IBS system help improve fuel efficiency?
The IBS system is used primarily for the start stop function which eliminates the burning of fuel while at complete stop, also reducing CO2 emissions. The IBS system continually analyzes the charge of the battery system and intelligently charges it only when needed. When the battery is sufficiently charged, the motor does not need to spin the alternator thus improving efficiency of the engine and gaining more miles per gallon.
What does registering the new BMW battery do?
As your battery ages and loses charging capacity, the car adjusts how much it needs to recharge it to operate at an optimal level. The older the battery the more charge is required. Putting a new battery in your BMW and registering your battery tells your car that a new battery is installed. As a result, the car will not overcharge the new battery thinking the old one is still in there. Registering the battery also resets battery statistics based off your old batteries temperatures and behaviors wiping the slate clean.
What does programming the BMW battery do / What is the purpose of registering a BMW battery?
If you are swapping out your BMW battery for a new one with different amperage and or voltage specs, the car needs to be told this so it can adjust for the new battery settings and not damage your car’s fragile electrical system. As a result, reprogramming will need to be done.
What if I skip programming or registering my new battery / Is registering a BMW battery necessary?
Bmw Remote Key Battery Replacement
Skipping this step WILL shorten the life of the battery as well as potentially damage your vehicles electrical system. The new battery will become overcharged as the car still thinks the old battery is installed. This can potentially cause damage to the car’s alternator. Your car may also throw off warning lights as indicators of these issues.
Who can register or program a BMW battery?
How To Program A Bmw E90 Key Fob
Any BMW dealership will be able to program or register your new BMW battery as well as authorized BMW shops. Special software and plugs are required to perform this process and is best left to the hands of professionals. Luckily, the process is straight forward and a routine job for these shops. As a result, the cost isn’t outrageous and you get the peace of mind knowing your car is serviced and as BMW designed it to be.
Why does BMW have to do this and be a huge pain?
BMW is not the only manufacturer doing this. With the stricter emission standards set by the government it is only a matter of time before all car manufacturers will eventually go to this new intelligent battery system. With hybrid and full electric cars becoming more popular the electronic systems are becoming so advanced the maintenance can only be done by qualified technicians with specialized tools.
Where can I learn more BMW fun facts
Learn more interesting facts about your BMW by clicking HERE