Is your 2011 Bmw 328i Key Fob acting up, especially when the temperature drops? Experiencing issues like your key fob failing to lock or unlock your car in cold weather, or noticing your BMW forgetting personalized settings like radio presets after starting? You might be facing a common problem: a dying key fob battery. Fortunately, replacing it is a straightforward DIY task you can tackle at home.
This guide will walk you through replacing the battery in your 2011 BMW 328i key fob, saving you a trip to the dealership and the associated costs. Before we begin, you’ll need to purchase a replacement VL2020 battery, ensuring you note the terminal orientation for correct installation. You can find these batteries online from retailers like eBay.
- Carefully Open the Key Fob: The 2011 BMW 328i key fob is sealed with glue, so you’ll need to carefully cut it open. Using a sharp X-acto knife, gently score along the seam of the fob. Work slowly and avoid cutting too deep to prevent damage to the internal circuit board (PCB). Patience is key here.
- Desolder the Old Battery: Once open, you’ll see the battery on the PCB. To remove it, use a non-metallic tool like a credit card to gently apply pressure to the battery. Then, using a soldering iron, desolder the corner terminal of the battery first. This is crucial because the middle terminal has a longer lead, making the corner terminal easier to access initially.
- Solder in the New VL2020 Battery: Place the new VL2020 battery into the designated holes on the PCB. Hold the PCB by its edges and gently press the battery down to ensure it’s properly seated. Apply heat with your soldering iron to the middle terminal first, then the corner terminal. The battery terminals should push through the existing solder and settle into place.
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Test and Reassemble: Before permanently sealing the 2011 BMW 328i key fob, dry fit the PCB back into the housing and test the key to ensure it’s working correctly. If everything functions as expected, you’ve successfully replaced the battery!
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Glue the Key Fob Housing Shut: You have a couple of options for reassembling your 2011 BMW 328i key fob. You can purchase a new replacement housing for a fresh look, or 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 glue to the edges and carefully press the two halves of the fob together until the glue sets.
Congratulations, you’ve successfully replaced the battery in your 2011 BMW 328i key fob! Enjoy the restored functionality and the satisfaction of a job well done.
