Replaceable batteries for BMW key fobs typically last for about two years. You’ll receive a warning if the battery voltage drops too low thanks to the BMW key fob battery monitoring system. Either an iDrive check control message or an instrument cluster warning is displayed.
Only two types of button cell batteries—CR2023 and CR2450—are used in all key fobs with replaceable batteries.
In this guide you’ll find out how to replace the battery in BMW key fobs used from the 2000 model year till today. The battery in a BMW Display Key can be changed similarly to how you would change the battery in a vintage cell phone.
Choose your key type to jump straight to section:
F and G Series
F Series
E Series
E Series
Replacing the F/G Series key fob battery
BATTERY TYPE ▷ CR2032
To replace the battery you don’t need any tools. Make sure to source the right battery before replacement. This remote key type uses the 3,2V button cell type CR2032 battery. The battery price is about $6 at the US BMW dealer parts department, and about €3.50 in EU. The BMW part number is 66 12 6 912 985.
CR2032 battery (10). BMW ETK parts catalog screenshot.
Step 1: Remove the integrated key from the key fob
Removing integrated key
Press the button, arrow 1, and pull out the integrated key, arrow 2.
Step 2: Remove the battery cover
Place the integrated key underneath the battery cover (arrow 1), and lift the cover with a lever movement of the integrated key (arrow 2).
Step 3: Replace the battery
Push the battery in the direction of the arrow using a battery cover edge and lift it out.
Insert a type CR 2032 battery with the positive side facing up.
Press the cover closed.
Push the integrated key into the vehicle key until the integrated key engages.
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Take old batteries to a collection station or have the dealer’s service center, or another capable service center, dispose of them.
Emergency start with empty key fob battery
Position the key fob at the marked position on the steering column. 2019 BMW 5 Series Owners Manual.
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It is not possible to switch on the drive-ready state if the vehicle key has not been detected.
Proceed as follows in this case:
Hold the back of the vehicle key against the marked area on the steering column. Pay attention to the display in the instrument cluster.
If the vehicle key is detected: Switch on the ignition within 10 seconds.
If the vehicle key is not recognized, slightly change the position of the vehicle key and repeat the procedure.
Note: you don’t need any tools to change the key battery! Instead of the screwdriver used in the video below, you can use the battery cover – just push the battery in the right direction as shown in Step 3.
Replacing the F Series key fob battery
BATTERY TYPE ▷ CR2450
Step 1: Remove the integrated key from the key fob
Removing integrated key
Press the button (arrow 1), and remove the key (arrow 2).
Step 2: Remove the battery cover
Place the integrated key underneath the battery compartment cover (arrow 1) and lift the cover with a lever movement of the integrated key.
Remove the battery cover (arrow 2).
Step 3: Replace the battery
Insert a type CR 2450 battery with the positive side facing up.
Press the cover closed.
Have old batteries disposed of by a dealer’s service center or another qualified service center or repair shop or take them to a collection point.
Take old batteries to a collection station or have the dealer’s service center, or another capable service center, dispose of them.
Emergency start with empty key fob battery
It is not possible to switch on the drive-ready state if the vehicle key has not been detected.
Position the key fob at the marked position on the steering column. 2016 BMW 3 Series Owners Manual.
Proceed as follows in this case:
Hold the back of the vehicle key against the marked area on the steering column. Pay attention to the display in the instrument cluster.
If the vehicle key is detected: Switch on the ignition within 10 seconds.
If the vehicle key is not recognized, slightly change the position of the vehicle key and repeat the procedure.
Replacing the E Series key fob battery
BATTERY TYPE ▷ CR2032 (Comfort Access) / VL2020 (Without Comfort Access)
BMW E Series models without the Comfort Access option use a lifetime battery that cannot be replaced. The battery should last about 10 years, and often more, depending on the number of charging cycles. When the battery dies, you should buy a new key fob. At least according to BMW themselves.
However, this rechargeable key battery can actually be replaced. During the production, BMW used a custom-made Panasonic VL2020 battery. You can source the battery on Amazon or eBay easily for about $10 to $20.
To replace the battery, you have to cut the key fob shell and solder the battery. Here’s a handy guide:
If, on the other hand, you have to replace the battery on a Comfort Access key fob, it’s very easy. The remote control for Comfort Access contains a battery that will need to be replaced from time to time.
Step 1: Remove the integrated key from the key fob
Removing integrated key
Integrated key
Press button 1 and pull out the key.
Take the integrated key out of the remote control.
Step 2: Remove the battery cover
Step 3: Replace the battery
Insert a new type CR2032 battery with the positive side facing upwards.
Press the cover closed.
Take old batteries to a collection station or have the dealer’s service center, or another capable service center, dispose of them.
Replacing the E Series Diamond key fob battery
BATTERY TYPE ▷ Panasonic VL2020
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of battery BMW key fob use?
All BMW F-Series use button cell type CR2450, while all other key fobs with replaceable batteries use CR2032.
How much BMW key fob battery cost?
At the BMW dealer, a CR2450 costs about $14, and at FCP Euro, a 2-pack is $5. A CR2032 costs approximately $6 at a BMW dealer and $4 at FCP Euro. You can use any brand as long as the battery type is right for your remote key.
Can I replace BMW key battery myself?
Yes, all BMW key fobs with replaceable batteries are designed so that battery can be changed by the owner. The process is described here and you can find it in your BMW’s owner manual or in iDrive IBA. However, some BMW key fob types used in E-Series without Comfort Acces use a lifetime battery that is not designed for replacement.
What happens if BMW key fob runs out of battery?
If your BMW key fob battery is empty you can still enter and start a car using integrated mechanical key and use a procedure for emergency start in case the key fob is not detected by the vehicle.
How often do I need to change BMW key battery?
BMW key fob batteries will usually last for about two years. The best practice is to replace the battery in both key fobs at each brake fluid service as a preventive measure, since the interval for both is 24 months.
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