Batteries on newer diamond keys do not last forever

[bmw540san]

While there is info out there that batteries rarely go bad on newer style keys, mine is kaput.

I carefully cut my original 12 year old key and measured the voltage:
2.9 V, 2.6 under load.

New one that I got is 3.2 V as it's suppose to be.

Friend of mine who is extremely skilled electrician will solder it for me tomorrow and I'll report if that fixes the remote function issue.

Forgot to mention that the other key that I lost worked perfectly and this key simply won't resync after numerous tries which eliminates the potential problem with EWS that sometime causes remote not working.

Also, it's worth mentioning that unlike some you tube videos that use box knife to open the key which can damage the circuit board due to force and pressure, I've used fine tooth small Craftsman (made in Germany of all places) saw and carefully sawed in increments which produced completely undamaged key.

http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j...85970519,d.cWc

[upallnight]

Japanese woodworkers has the best saw for fine work.

[Alex35X]

These are the correct batteries, and this is the same listing from which I bought them with no problem.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Recha...890632831.html

Did you install rechargeable batteries?

[bmw540san]

Originally Posted by Alex35X

These are the correct batteries, and this is the same listing from which I bought them with no problem.

Rechargeable Battery for BMW Remote Key 2pcs-in Alarm Systems & Security from Automobiles & Motorcycles on Aliexpress.com | Alibaba Group

Did you install rechargeable batteries?

I got mine here which is identical to old one. I'll have my friend solder it today and report if that has fixed the issue.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[crystalworks]

Mouser has them for 4.89/ea. That's where I'll be getting mine.

Edit: Looks like the ones from Mouser don't have the leads bent for you. Not a big deal for me, but might be for someone... thought I'd mention it.

[Alex35X]

Originally Posted by bmw540san

I got mine here which is identical to old one. I'll have my friend solder it today and report if that has fixed the issue.
Amazon.com: Panasonic VL2020 - Rechargeable Battery - Bmw E46 E60 E92 3 328 330 X5 VL 2020: Automotive

These are not identical to the old one. I also ordered these in addition to the ones I ordered from Alibaba. Like mentioned, the leads are not in the right place. You can modify it and do additional soldering, but why not just get the one that is already correct - make the job easier/better. It does take a couple weeks to get the ones from alibaba.

If you read the reviews on amazon, lots of people will mention this as well.

[romeokc10]

Originally Posted by Alex35X

These are not identical to the old one. I also ordered these in addition to the ones I ordered from Alibaba. Like mentioned, the leads are not in the right place. You can modify it and do additional soldering, but why not just get the one that is already correct - make the job easier/better. It does take a couple weeks to get the ones from alibaba.

If you read the reviews on amazon, lots of people will mention this as well.

If you really, really, really, want to do it the easy way, just send it to Scott at bmwgm5.com and he'll replace the battery for you and check the circuit board for only $50.

[Alex35X]

Originally Posted by romeokc10

If you really, really, really, want to do it the easy way, just send it to Scott at bmwgm5.com and he'll replace the battery for you and check the circuit board for only $50.

But then you don't get that sweet sweet satisfaction from doing it yourself!

[bmw540san]

Originally Posted by Alex35X

These are not identical to the old one. I also ordered these in addition to the ones I ordered from Alibaba. Like mentioned, the leads are not in the right place. You can modify it and do additional soldering, but why not just get the one that is already correct - make the job easier/better. It does take a couple weeks to get the ones from alibaba.

If you read the reviews on amazon, lots of people will mention this as well.

You're right but it is Panasonic and the same voltage. Bent leads are not big deal as I have the friend that's more than capable to solder it safely.

[bmw540san]

Originally Posted by romeokc10

If you really, really, really, want to do it the easy way, just send it to Scott at bmwgm5.com and he'll replace the battery for you and check the circuit board for only $50.

As much as I hear this guy is honest and fair priced, he said it himself: he can never guarantee work 100% as he doesn't have the car there to test it. Therefore, I'm doing it myself and I have very knowledgeable and skilled electronics guru friend to help me.