Identifying Your Key Fob
Before diving into the battery replacement process, it’s crucial to identify whether your BMW X6 key fob has the Comfort Access feature. This feature allows you to unlock your car without pressing the button on the key fob. Simply grabbing the handle unlocks the car. If your key fob has this functionality, you have the Comfort Access version.
To identify this, look at the back of your key fob. If you see a small rectangular outline, it indicates a Comfort Access key fob. This blog will focus on the Non-Comfort Access key fob battery replacement process.
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Tools You’ll Need
- Box cutter or utility knife
- Small flathead screwdriver
- Soldering kit
- Super glue
- VL2020 rechargeable battery
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Removing the Valet Key
Start by removing the valet key from your key fob. This will make it easier to access and open the key fob. You can do this by sliding the small button on the side of the key fob and pulling out the valet key.
Opening the Key Fob
Next, use a box cutter or utility knife to score around the middle section of the key fob. There is a line that divides the fob into two parts, which are glued together. Carefully work through the glue and some of the plastic to create a gap. Once you have a small gap, use a small flathead screwdriver to pry the key fob apart slowly.
As you work your way around, the glue will start to break down, allowing you to open the key fob and access the circuit board.
Accessing the Battery
With the key fob open, you will see the circuit board and the battery. The battery you need to replace is a VL2020 rechargeable battery. These batteries recharge themselves but can die over time. If your key fob is not working, this could be the issue.
Desoldering the Old Battery
Flip the circuit board over to locate the solder points. These points connect the battery’s legs to the circuit board. You will need to desolder these points to remove the old battery. If you have never soldered before, don’t worry. It’s a straightforward process.
Heat the soldering iron and melt the solder on the points. Use a desoldering vacuum to suck up the melted solder. Repeat this process for both solder points until the old battery is free.
Preparing the New Battery
Before installing the new VL2020 battery, ensure its legs are at a 90-degree angle. Some VL2020 batteries have legs offset at 180 degrees, so be sure to get the correct one. Align the legs of the new battery with the solder points on the circuit board.
Soldering the New Battery
With the new battery in place, it’s time to solder it onto the circuit board. Take a small amount of solder and use the soldering iron to melt it onto the connection points. Ensure the solder forms a solid connection between the battery legs and the circuit board.
Repeat this process for both solder points. Once done, check that the battery is securely attached to the circuit board.
Reassembling the Key Fob
Now that the new battery is installed, it’s time to reassemble the key fob. Place the circuit board back into the key fob casing. Ensure the buttons are correctly aligned with their respective positions on the circuit board.
Apply super glue around the edges of the key fob casing to secure it back together. Press the two halves of the key fob together and hold them in place until the glue sets.
Finally, reinsert the valet key into the key fob. Your key fob should now be fully functional with the new battery.
Conclusion
Replacing the battery in a BMW X6 Non-Comfort Access key fob is a straightforward process. By following these steps and using the right tools, you can save time and money by doing it yourself. Remember to handle the circuit board and battery carefully to avoid any damage.
FAQ
How do I know if my key fob needs a new battery?
If your key fob is not working or has intermittent issues, it may need a new battery. Check if the buttons are responsive and if the car unlocks consistently.
What type of battery does the BMW X6 key fob use?
The Non-Comfort Access key fob uses a VL2020 rechargeable battery. Ensure you get one with legs at a 90-degree angle.
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Can I use any soldering kit?
Yes, any basic soldering kit should work. A $19 kit from Amazon is sufficient for this task.
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Is it safe to open the key fob myself?
Yes, as long as you handle the components carefully and follow the steps, it is safe to open and replace the battery yourself.
Do I need to reprogram the key fob after changing the battery?
No, replacing the battery does not require reprogramming the key fob. It should work as usual once the new battery is installed.