What happens when your BMW key fob suddenly stops working after changing its battery? This is a common issue that many BMW owners face and can be quite frustrating.
But don’t worry, in this article we will explore why your BMW key fob may not be working after a battery change and what you can do to fix it. So, let’s dive in!
Common Reasons for BMW Key Fob Not Working After Battery Change
There are several reasons why your BMW key fob may stop working after changing its battery. These include:
- Weak or dead battery
- Incorrect battery replacement
- Key fob programming issues
- Mechanical or electrical faults
- Water damage
- Physical damage
- Software issues
- Key fob syncing issues
Weak or dead battery
One of the most common reasons for a BMW key fob to stop working after a battery change is due to a weak or dead battery.
Reasons: Just like any other battery-powered device, the key fob’s battery can lose its charge over time. If the battery level was already low and you changed it without realizing it, your key fob may not have enough power to function properly.
In some cases, even a new battery could be faulty or expired, causing similar issues.
Solutions: To fix this issue, try replacing the battery with a new one from a reputable brand. Make sure to check the expiration date and properly insert it into your key fob.
If the issue persists, you may need to reprogram your key fob or get it checked for any potential mechanical or electrical faults.
Incorrect battery replacement
Another common reason for a BMW key fob to not work after changing the battery is due to incorrect replacement. It’s important to use the right battery type and size for your key fob model.
Using the wrong battery can cause damage to your key fob and prevent it from functioning properly.
Reasons: Some key fob models may require a specific battery type, such as a CR2032 lithium coin cell battery. Using a different battery with the same size and voltage may not work properly.
Additionally, inserting the battery in the wrong direction or not securing it properly can also lead to issues.
Solutions: To avoid this problem, refer to your owner’s manual or consult a BMW dealership for the correct battery type and replacement instructions. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and securely insert the battery into your key fob.
Key fob programming issues
In some cases, changing the key fob battery may cause it to lose its programming. This means that the key fob is no longer synced with your BMW’s security system and will not work until it is reprogrammed.
Reasons: Programming can be lost due to various reasons, such as a dead battery, electrical issues, or even if the key fob is left near a strong magnetic field. It’s also possible for the programming to get disrupted while changing the battery if certain steps are not followed correctly.
Solutions: To reprogram your key fob, you will need to follow specific instructions provided by BMW or take it to a dealership. In some cases, you may need to replace the key fob if programming cannot be restored.
To reprogram your BMW key fob, follow these steps:
- First, make sure your key fob has a fresh battery and is inserted correctly.
- Sit in the driver’s seat with all doors closed and insert the key into the ignition but do not start the engine.
- Turn the key to position 1 (ACC) and then back to off within 5 seconds.
- Press and hold the unlock button on the key fob while simultaneously pressing the BMW logo button three times.
- Release both buttons and wait for the doors to automatically lock and unlock, indicating that the programming was successful.
- If this does not work, repeat steps 3-5 within 30 seconds.
- Turn off the ignition and test your key fob to see if it is now working.
Mechanical or electrical faults
If the above steps do not work, there may be a mechanical or electrical issue with your key fob.
Mechanical or electrical faults refer to any issues with the physical components or wiring of the key fob that may hinder its functionality.
Reasons: This could include damaged buttons, loose connections, or other internal malfunctions.
Solutions: In these cases, it is best to take your key fob to a professional for repair or replacement. So, if the above steps do not work, it is recommended to take your key fob to a BMW dealership or certified mechanic for further diagnosis and repair.
Attempting to fix these issues on your own may cause further damage and could potentially void any existing warranties.
Water damage
Another common issue with a malfunctioning key fob is water damage, which can occur if the fob is submerged in water or exposed to high levels of moisture.
Solutions: If you suspect your key fob has been damaged by water, it is important to act quickly. Remove the battery and use a hair dryer on the lowest heat setting to dry out any moisture.
You can also place the key fob in a bowl of rice, which will help absorb any remaining moisture. If these methods do not work, it is best to seek professional assistance for repair or replacement.
Physical damage
Accidents happen, and your key fob may become damaged due to drops or other impacts.
Solutions: If your key fob has physical damage such as a cracked casing or broken buttons, it is best to have it repaired or replaced by a professional.
Attempting to fix these issues on your own may cause further damage and could potentially void any existing warranties.
In some cases, a simple replacement of the battery may also solve any issues caused by physical damage.
Software issues
Sometimes, the problem with a key fob not working after a battery change may be due to software issues.
Solutions: If your car has been reprogrammed or had its electrical system reset, your key fob may need to be re-synced with the vehicle.
This can usually be done by following specific instructions in your owner’s manual or by contacting your dealership for assistance.
In some cases, a software update may also be necessary to resolve any issues with the key fob.
How do I reset my BMW key fob after replacing the battery?
Instructions for resetting your key fob may vary depending on the model and year of your BMW. It is best to consult your owner’s manual or contact your dealership for specific instructions.
Alternatively, you can follow the below instructions to reset your BMW key fob after replacing the battery, follow these steps:
- Locate the “lock” and “unlock” buttons on your key fob. These are typically located near the top of the fob.
- Press and hold down both buttons simultaneously for about 5 seconds, until the lights on the key fob start flashing.
- Release both buttons and wait for a few seconds.
- Press and hold down the “unlock” button while simultaneously pressing and releasing the “lock” button three times.
- Release the “unlock” button and wait for a few seconds. You should hear a beep or see a message on your vehicle’s dashboard indicating that the key fob has been successfully reset.
- Test your key fob by locking and unlocking your vehicle’s doors with it.
How do I resync my BMW key fob?
To resync your BMW key fob, follow these steps:
- Stand near your vehicle and have the key fob with you.
- Open the driver’s side door and sit in the driver’s seat.
- Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the “On” position without starting the car.
- Press and hold down the “lock” and “unlock” buttons on the key fob simultaneously for about 5 seconds, until the lights start flashing.
- Release both buttons and wait for a few seconds.
- Press and hold down the “unlock” button while simultaneously pressing and releasing the “lock” button three times.
- Release the “unlock” button and wait for a few seconds. You should hear a beep or see a message on your vehicle’s dashboard indicating that the key fob has been successfully resynced.
- Test your key fob by locking and unlocking your vehicle’s doors with it.
If these steps do not work, you may need to contact your local BMW dealership for further assistance. They will be able to provide specific instructions for your particular BMW model.
FAQs
Why is my BMW key fob not working with a new battery?
If your BMW key fob is not working after a battery change, there could be several reasons for this issue. One possible reason is that the new battery may not have been installed correctly.
Ensure that the positive and negative sides of the battery are properly aligned with the contacts inside the key fob.
Another reason could be that the key fob needs to be reset or resynced with your vehicle. This can happen if the key fob battery dies completely and is replaced, or if there was a power outage while the key fob was near your vehicle.
If neither of these reasons seems to be the issue, there may be a problem with the key fob itself. It could have been damaged or malfunctioned due to wear and tear over time. In this case, it may need to be replaced entirely.