How to Start a BMW When the Key Fob Battery Dies?
3 Answers
BMW key fob battery dead starting solution: 1. Press the button to extract the key; 2. Locate the small hole under the exterior door handle of the car and insert the key into it; 3. Lift the key upwards to remove the cover, revealing the keyhole; 4. Insert the key into the keyhole and turn counterclockwise to unlock the door; 5. Find a key icon below the right side of the steering wheel in the driver's compartment, place the key against this icon, then press the start button to start the car. BMW is a German luxury automobile brand with vehicle series including i, X, Z, and pure numeric models (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 series), along with the M series which are enhanced versions based on these models. The company headquarters is located in Munich, Bavaria, Germany.
My BMW key has run out of battery several times, and each time it's been quite a hassle. At first, I found that the car door wouldn't open, which was really frustrating, but don't panic. There's a small button on the side of the BMW key—press it to pop out the mechanical key. Use this to pry open the small cover on the door lock. Once inside, avoid randomly pressing the start button. The car might not detect the key, so look for the spot inside the car with a key symbol—usually under the steering column or near the central cup holder—and press the key firmly against it to try starting the engine. Once it starts, drive immediately to replace the battery. Changing it is easy: use a thin tool to pry open the key's back cover and replace it with a CR2032 coin battery. It's a good idea to carry a spare key with you or keep one at home just in case. I've made it a habit to check the key's battery every six months by shining a phone light on the key button. If the light appears dim or there's no response, replace the battery right away to avoid getting stranded.
I've experienced a dead key fob before—just as I was rushing to a meeting, the car wouldn't unlock, which was super awkward. Thankfully, BMW's thoughtful design came to the rescue: first, use the side button to pop out the mechanical key and open the door. Once inside, not being able to start the car is common, but BMW has an emergency start spot—just press the key against the steering column or the center console cup holder, and the car will start. Avoid forcing multiple attempts, as this can wear out the car's sensors. Next, check the key fob's light; if it's dim, replace the battery (model CR2032, available at hardware stores)—it takes just two minutes to pop open the back cover. If you don't have a spare battery on hand, use the backup key or call for assistance. I recommend car owners learn some basic DIY skills, like checking battery voltage with simple tools, to minimize hassle. During regular maintenance, remind the shop to check the key fob.