Is your BMW X1 key fob starting to act up? A common culprit is a low battery. While a seemingly small issue, a dead key fob battery can be a major inconvenience. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about your Bmw X1 Key Fob Battery, from identifying the right type to replacing it yourself, saving you time and money compared to dealership service.
Identifying the Correct Battery for Your BMW X1 Key Fob
The first step is ensuring you have the correct replacement battery. For most BMW X1 models, especially the E84 generation (like the 2013 and 2014 models mentioned in forums), the key fob typically uses a VL2020 rechargeable battery.
It’s crucial to confirm this for your specific key fob before opening it up. While online retailers like Amazon and eBay might not always list “E84” explicitly as compatible, the VL2020 is generally the standard for BMW key fobs of this era. To be absolutely sure, you can:
- Check your BMW owner’s manual: This is the most reliable source for your vehicle’s specific requirements.
- Visually inspect your key fob (if comfortable): Some key fobs might have a small access panel for battery replacement, or you may be able to carefully pry it open to see the battery type without fully disassembling it. Exercise extreme caution if attempting this to avoid damaging the fob.
- Consult a BMW parts specialist: Providing your VIN to a BMW parts department can quickly confirm the correct battery for your key fob.
Using the wrong battery type can lead to improper charging, key fob malfunction, or even damage. Therefore, taking a moment to verify compatibility is a worthwhile precaution.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your BMW X1 Key Fob Battery
Once you have the correct VL2020 battery, you can proceed with the replacement. Here’s a general DIY guide, though slight variations might exist depending on your exact key fob model:
- Gather your tools: You’ll typically need a small Phillips head screwdriver and potentially a thin plastic pry tool (like a guitar pick or plastic spudger) to gently open the key fob casing.
- Locate the battery compartment: Examine your key fob for screws or seams that indicate where it opens. Some fobs have a small screw on the back, while others might snap together and require gentle prying.
- Open the key fob casing: Carefully unscrew any screws and then use your pry tool to gently separate the two halves of the key fob. Work slowly and patiently to avoid breaking any plastic clips.
- Identify the battery: Once open, you’ll see the battery. Note its orientation (positive and negative sides).
- Remove the old battery: The battery might be held in place by small clips or pressure. Gently remove the old VL2020 battery.
- Insert the new battery: Place the new VL2020 battery in the same orientation as the old one. Ensure it’s securely seated.
- Reassemble the key fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob back together, or replace and tighten any screws. Ensure the casing is fully closed and secure.
Troubleshooting After BMW X1 Key Fob Battery Replacement
After replacing the battery, your BMW X1 key fob should ideally function perfectly. However, you might encounter some issues, as highlighted in the original forum post where the user experienced problems with the lock/unlock buttons after battery replacement. Here are some troubleshooting steps:
- Check battery contacts: Ensure the battery contacts inside the key fob are clean and making good contact with the new battery. Sometimes, slight corrosion or dirt can interfere with the connection.
- Resynchronize the key fob: In some cases, after a battery change, the key fob might need to be resynchronized with the car. Refer to your BMW owner’s manual for specific key synchronization procedures. This usually involves a sequence of button presses and ignition actions performed inside the vehicle.
- Inspect the button contacts: As suggested in the forum, check the physical buttons on the key fob and their contact points on the circuit board. Dirt or debris can prevent the buttons from working even with a new battery. Try cleaning these contacts gently with compressed air or a soft brush.
- Consider key fob damage: If the buttons still don’t work after these steps, there’s a possibility of internal damage to the key fob itself, unrelated to the battery. In this scenario, you might need to consider professional key fob repair or replacement.
Conclusion
Replacing your BMW X1 key fob battery is generally a straightforward DIY task that can save you money and hassle. By identifying the correct VL2020 battery and following these steps, you can often resolve key fob issues quickly. However, if problems persist after battery replacement, further troubleshooting or professional assistance might be necessary to ensure your key fob functions correctly. Remember to always prioritize the correct battery type and handle your key fob with care during the replacement process.
