BMW key fob not working after battery change – have you experienced it?
While BMW vehicles are known to be among the most impressive and advanced in technology, they are not without issues.
This Bavarian brand is still one of the most desirable manufacturers even if it has poor reliability in most cases.
Several drivers have reported challenges with the vehicle, one of which is the key fob not working after a battery change.
The key fob on your BMW is a small remote control that allows you to control the entry into your vehicle. It also has some additional features that allow you to operate your vehicle remotely.
BMW Key Fob Not Working After Battery Change
Sometimes it’s necessary to change the battery in your key fob when it malfunctions. But it can be frustrating to discover that the fob fails to work even after the battery change. Possible causes for this issue can be defective batteries, loose key buttons, electrical issues on the car, or problems with synchronization and connection terminals.
You will need to diagnose and fix the problem if you wish to have your vehicle functioning normally again. Here are some possible causes for the BMW key fob not working after a battery change.
- Poor Quality Batteries
There are cases where the new batteries are defective. This can be frustrating, especially when the batteries are brand-new. Check to see if your key fob is receiving power from batteries. This may be verified using the common multimeter.
- Loose Buttons
The key fob may malfunction due to loose buttons. The rubber used to make the buttons on your BMW key fob is prone to deterioration over time. Your key fob may have some loose or shaky buttons, and some that need a firm push to activate.
In this case, you need to either have the entire key fob replaced or have the buttons changed by an authorised dealer. Another possibility is that there’s dirt lodged in between the buttons. Try using a brush to remove it.
- Electrical Issues
An electrical problem with your car may be the root of the problem rather than your key fob.
In the event that a wire is damaged, the door panel has been altered, or a wiring connection has been tampered with, the key fob may not trigger the door [1].
This problem is typically related to other problems and poor key fob functionality. You should have an electrician take a look and recommend a solution.
- Problem with the connector terminal
Your BMW key fob’s battery connecting terminal could be damaged, which might explain why it’s not working after a battery change. You have to disassemble the remote and look inside the terminal to make sure. Look for evidence of corrosion or loose terminals, then replace or rectify them. The loose terminal might need to be soldered in place.
- Problem with Sync
For security reasons, your BMW key fob has been programmed to only sync with your car. It’s possible that changing the battery will cause the fob to lose synchronization and stop working [2].
All additional remotes will likewise completely stop functioning in such a scenario. You need to reconfigure the key fob on your BMW to fix this issue.
Fixing Key Fob On Your BMW
- Replace loose or damaged buttons
If there are problems with the buttons on your BMW fob, it might not work. Its buttons might come free or break over time. You can use common tools to self-fix buttons that become stuck or refuse to push.
Start by taking apart the fob’s shell and take out the buttons. Once the buttons have been thoroughly cleaned, reassemble the keychain. You might be unable to fully press the buttons on your key fob due to some dust and filth.
- Replace or recharge the battery.
The most likely cause of your BMW key fob not functioning is a dead battery. As soon as its range starts to decline, you will notice signs showing that its battery is running low.
You must swap out the old battery for a new one that is compatible with your key fob and meets the requirements for voltage, size, and specs. Make sure the new battery is facing the correct way as well.
- Reprogram the key fob.
If you believe your key fob and your automobile aren’t syncing properly, you can also reconfigure it. To learn how to reprogram your car, see the owner’s manual or make use of an OBDII scanner. Visit your dealer so that they can perform the reprogramming if you are unsure about how to do it yourself.
- Examine the battery connector terminals and fix any issues you find.
If the battery connector terminals are destroyed, your fob will not operate again, even if the battery is operating. By disassembling the remote to view its internal components, you can verify this for yourself.
Soldering can be used to reattach damaged or loose connector terminals to their original positions. If you are not sure how to accomplish this, get expert assistance.
- Steer clear of any potential signal interference.
Signal interference may cause the connection between your vehicle and your BMW key fob to break. Your key fob should resume functioning as soon as you exit the area that is interfering.
Satellite systems, electrical items, transmitters, and inclement weather can all interfere with signals. You should anticipate the chance of a fob malfunctioning if you are inside these parameters.
Note: Storing the key fob near or inside the vehicle can accelerate key fob battery draining, because of it’s persistant signal communication.
Related: BMW Display Screen Problems
Final Word
The BMW key fob not working after a battery change is a problem that can be easily solved by careful inspection and diagnosis. In most cases problems with key fobs are easy to fix.
However, you can engage the services of a technician if you are not confident of tackling the problem yourself. It is crucial to have the issue fixed early to avoid further complications.
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