Keyless Remote - Intermittent Failure
 

The keyless remote for my '03 X5 has progressively stopped working. At first, it was sporadic... Now, it basically doesn't work. (The other key -- which my wife keeps -- stopped working about a year ago...)

I'm assuming the battery is dead. I went to BMW Parts, and they said these older keys can't have their batteries replaced.

Any suggestions?

I noticed they sell this model key, un-cut, on eBay for around $50... But then it will need to be cut and programmed (not sure how much of a "gouge" that will be from a BMW service dept). Not worth it to me to spend $200+ to fix this... Just looking for any ideas.

Thanks!
SM :thumbup:

BTW, I first used the "Search" function ("key", "remote", etc.) but didn't find this particular situation covered. If there is a thread on this topic, please be so kind as to post the link.

I'm new here -- but not to forums in general, so I know how members can get annoyed by redundant threads.

Thanks again.

Had the same proBlem 2 days ago. New key from dealer 170 - so I cut opened the old key, put a new 2025 battery from RadioShack, come crazy glue and :thumbup: my remote works again.

You do realize that the battery in the key is being recharged while you're driving? The CR2025 is not a rechargeable battery, so if it explodes...well you know. The correct battery is a CR2032 rechargeable battery, you can get them on ebay for $7. To the thread starter, do a more thorough search, there is thread with pics that shows you how to cut open the key and replace the battery.

Here's the link.

replacing battery in key fob.... - E46Fanatics

Thanks -- very much appreciated. :thumbup:

I just ordered a little "set-up" for this DIY, total just shy of $25:

- A soldering iron kit w/ solder
- An exacto knife kit
- 2 x CR2032 rechargeable batteries from eBay. These are what I got, hope it's correct:

2 NEW LIR2032 CR2032 RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES LITHIUM-ION | eBay

After reading that thread link, it seems like about 50% of the members screwed it up for some reason. Apparently, it's not as easy as it seems.

One trap is cutting open the key -- a bunch of people cut into the circuit board by mistake (this is why I got an exacto knife kit... want to do this very carefully with the right blade).

Another is getting the battery situated correctly and soldering it back on in the exact right spot, so that the connectivity works.

And the last thing seems to be re-programming... if both my keys are "dead" can I even re-program? Seem like there was lots of confusion about this...

Anyway, thanks again. I'll post up how this goes.

Yes you can reprogram the key even if you only have one, look at the top of the web page under the How To tab.