Understanding Your BMW X5 Key Fob
Replacing the battery in your BMW X5 key fob can seem daunting, but with the right tools and guidance, it’s a straightforward process. First, it’s essential to identify whether you have a Comfort Access key or a Non-Comfort Access key.
Comfort Access keys allow you to unlock the car by simply grabbing the handle without pressing any buttons. If your key fob has a square outline on the back, it is a Comfort Access key. For those, you would need a CR2032 battery.
This guide focuses on the Non-Comfort Access key, which uses a rechargeable VL2020 battery. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of replacing this battery.
- Battery Model: VL2020
- Please compare the leg position carefully,this battery is 90 degrees leg
- it is a Rechargeable battery
Tools You Will Need
Before starting, gather the necessary tools. You will need a box cutter or utility knife, a flat-head screwdriver, a soldering iron, a desoldering vacuum, tweezers, and a new VL2020 battery.
Having all these tools at hand will make the process smoother and faster.
Step-by-Step Battery Replacement
Let’s break down the battery replacement process into manageable steps.
Step 1: Opening the Key Fob
Begin by removing the valet key from the key fob. This will give you better access to the top part of the fob. Use a box cutter or utility knife to score around the edge of the key fob, cutting it in half lengthwise.
Take your time with this step, as it requires precision. You may need to cut fairly deep, and it might take some time. Once you’ve scored around the edges, use a flat-head screwdriver to pry the middle section apart.
Step 2: Accessing the Internal Components
Once the key fob is open, you will see the internal components. Carefully pull out the circuit board to access the rechargeable VL2020 battery.
The battery is soldered to the circuit board at two points. You will need to desolder these points to remove the old battery.
Step 3: Desoldering the Old Battery
Heat up your soldering iron and use it to melt the solder at the two points where the battery is attached. Use a desoldering vacuum to suck up the melted solder.
This step may require some patience. Ensure that you have removed enough solder to free the battery’s legs from the circuit board.
Step 4: Installing the New Battery
With the old battery removed, it’s time to install the new VL2020 battery. Make sure the legs of the new battery are offset at 90 degrees, as required for this key fob model.
Place the new battery’s legs into the corresponding spots on the circuit board. Ensure that the legs are correctly aligned before proceeding to the next step.
Step 5: Soldering the New Battery
Now, solder the new battery’s legs to the circuit board. Heat up the soldering iron and touch it to the solder, ensuring a secure connection.
Once both points are soldered, double-check that the battery is securely attached to the circuit board.
Step 6: Reassembling the Key Fob
With the new battery in place, it’s time to reassemble the key fob. Place the circuit board back into the key fob, ensuring that the buttons align correctly.
Since the key fob won’t clip back together easily after being scored, apply some super glue around the edges to secure it. Finally, reinsert the valet key, and you’re done!
- Plastic, Metal
- Imported
- IN THE BOX: 4-pack of CR2032 3 volt lithium coin cell batteries; replacement for BR2032, DL2032, and ECR2032
Additional Resources
If you need further assistance, there are additional resources available. For a video guide on replacing a Comfort Access key battery, you can watch this YouTube tutorial.
FAQ
What if I have a Comfort Access key?
If you have a Comfort Access key, you will need a CR2032 battery instead of the VL2020. The replacement process is different. For a detailed guide, watch this YouTube video.
Do I need any special tools to replace the battery?
Yes, you will need a box cutter or utility knife, a flat-head screwdriver, a soldering iron, a desoldering vacuum, tweezers, and a new VL2020 battery. These tools will help you complete the replacement process efficiently.
Can I use a different battery other than VL2020?
No, it is recommended to use the VL2020 battery as it is specifically designed for the Non-Comfort Access key fob for BMW X5 models from 2006-2013.
How long does the replacement process take?
The entire process can take around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your familiarity with the tools and the steps involved. Take your time to ensure each step is done correctly.
What should I do if my key fob still doesn’t work after replacing the battery?
If your key fob doesn’t work after replacing the battery, double-check the soldering points to ensure they are secure. If the problem persists, there might be an issue with the circuit board, and you may need professional assistance.
I’ve never soldered before. Is it difficult?
Soldering might seem intimidating, but with a bit of practice, it becomes manageable.
- Soldering Iron Support Station: Standard dual spring soldering iron holder with sponge is a very useful tool when the soldering iron work.It has a secure base and it is more safer than any other thin soldering stand.The maximum extent to avoid the user was burned and damaged.
- Soldering Iron Unique Features: Superior professional soldering iron has 5 multiple tips replacement, Heat and impact resistant design of screw thread so the iron head is not easy to drop.Adjustable Temperature from 200℃-450℃.Heat up fast and work great.
- Solder Sucker Desoldering Pump: Rugged metal construction,the desoldering pump is high pressure vacuum tube with aluminum body frame, which allows easy one-handed use, best for removing solder from PCB through hole solder joints.
By following these steps, you can successfully replace the battery in your BMW X5 key fob, ensuring it continues to function correctly. Happy driving!