Is your 2006 BMW key fob starting to act up, especially when the weather gets cold? You’re not alone. Many BMW owners experience issues with their key fobs in colder temperatures, often manifesting as unresponsiveness when trying to lock or unlock doors, or a loss of personalized settings when starting the car. This is frequently due to a weakened battery in your key fob. Before you rush to the dealership, you can actually replace the battery yourself! This guide will walk you through replacing the battery in your 2006 BMW key fob, saving you time and money.
Identifying the Correct Battery and Tools for Your BMW Key Fob
For your 2006 BMW key fob, you’ll need a VL2020 lithium-ion battery. It’s crucial to get the correct battery type to ensure proper function and longevity. You can find these batteries online from retailers like eBay or specialized battery stores.
[Refer to this eBay link for the correct battery: https://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-MINI-BMW-1-3-5-X1-X3-X5-X6-Z4-E38-E39-E46-M5-KEY-FOB-LI-ION-VL2020-BATTERY/322831172386?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649]
Besides the VL2020 battery, you’ll need a few common tools:
- Sharp X-Acto knife: For carefully opening the glued key fob casing.
- Non-metallic pry tool: A credit card or plastic pry tool will work to gently lift the battery.
- Soldering iron and solder: To desolder the old battery and solder in the new one.
Step-by-Step 2006 BMW Key Fob Battery Replacement Guide
Step 1: Carefully Opening the Key Fob
The BMW key fob for your 2006 model is sealed shut with glue. Take your sharp X-Acto knife and carefully start cutting along the seam of the key fob. It’s important to go slowly and apply gentle pressure. Do not cut too deep, as you risk damaging the circuit board (PCB) inside. Patience is key here. Work your way around the entire seam until you can gently pry the two halves of the fob apart.
Step 2: Desoldering the Old Battery
Once the fob is open, you’ll see the PCB with the battery. Use your non-metallic pry tool, like a credit card, to gently apply a small amount of upward pressure to the battery. Focus on the corner terminal first. Apply heat with your soldering iron to the corner terminal to melt the solder. Once the solder is molten, you should be able to lift that corner of the battery slightly. Repeat this process for the other terminal to fully remove the old VL2020 battery. Starting with the corner terminal is recommended because the middle terminal has a longer lead, making it harder to access initially.
Step 3: Soldering in the New VL2020 Battery
Place the new VL2020 battery into the battery holes on the PCB. Hold the PCB by its edges and gently press the battery down to ensure the terminals go through the holes. Now, apply heat with your soldering iron to the middle terminal first, then the corner terminal on the PCB. The heat will melt the existing solder, securing the new battery in place. Ensure the battery is sitting flush against the PCB.
Step 4: Testing and Reassembling Your Key Fob
Before sealing everything up, it’s crucial to test the key fob. Dry fit the PCB back into the key fob housing and test the lock, unlock, and start functions of your BMW. If everything works as expected, congratulations! You’ve successfully replaced your 2006 Bmw Key Fob Battery.
If it doesn’t work, double-check your soldering connections and battery orientation. If issues persist, you may need to seek professional help.
For reassembly, you have a couple of options. You can purchase a new key fob housing for a fresh look. Alternatively, you can simply glue the original housing back together. If you choose to glue it, use a gel-type cyanoacrylate glue sparingly to avoid it running and potentially gluing the PCB to the housing. Apply the glue to the edges of the housing and carefully press the two halves back together.
Conclusion
Replacing the 2006 BMW key fob battery is a straightforward DIY task that can resolve common key fob issues, especially in cold weather. By following these steps and using the correct VL2020 battery, you can restore your key fob’s functionality and avoid unnecessary dealership costs. Remember to work carefully, especially when opening the key fob and soldering the battery. Enjoy the convenience of a fully functional key fob once again!
