How to replace battery key fob on bmw

[@FieldyMate]

It's induction charging, that's what the coil is.

[@slavric]

Hi. The battery inside is chargeable and is charged via induction process similar to charging the latest smartphones. The energy transferred to the second coil is so minimal, that there is no way, that the key could heat up and/or explode just from that. The circuit inside actually has rectifier bridge for this purpose. I own E39/2000 and still original keys and E46/2004 also the same, all working perfectly. The reason for my searching similar videos was, that one of the keys for E46 fell to the ground and stopped cranking the engine. It was locking and unlocking normally. The problem was in a receiver coil (big copper coil inside) and replacing it solved the issue. I actually pulled it from Nissan key ;) Hope this helps anyone.

[@bimmermerchant]

Big help. Thanks for sharing.

[@jmas2190]

having problems starting car i had battery checked it is good fuses and starter car wont start it opens and locks doors and everything else works but key doesn't start car nowplease let me know anything about key

[@saibojassey6923]

in English version please if it's possible

[@elcompanachillo2006]

J Mas looks like the chip inside the key may be damaged and it wont send the signal to the car letting the car know that the key has been inserted.

[@davisvarin8000]

I have the factory x5 getting started video and it's a walkthrough of the vehicles features. The key DOES indeed charge while in the ignition and they stress to cycle through all your keys to keep them charged

[@bimmermerchant]

Thanks for sharing that information.

[@emmanuelsilvano5191]

Definitely electromagnetic /inductive charging using the coil. Same principle as the primary coil inducing voltage onto the secondary coil without any physical connection between the two. Also like wireless phone chargers today, it should have those coils inside as well. Thanks for posting mate, good stuff to see the insides

[@bimmermerchant]

Thank you for the great feedback. Subscribe to our channel if you haven't yet for more videos . And share with others our channel if you think they will benefit from it.

[@magdashoshan1743]

ضض

[@corporalflores]

Well the guy meant well and was trying to be helpful. Thank you.

[@c32c7]

by opening up the ring and showing all those copper wires wrapped like that it shows that it is completely possible for it to charge the battery. by sending electricity through those copper wiring it creates an electromagnetic field which transfers energy. this is called inductive charging or wireless charging.

[@kaido2537]

its a immobilizer ring you dummy :), there is no charging!!

[@damojan]

@@kaido2537 it is both you dummy!! When the EWS sees the correct key signal via the induction coil functioning as a receiver, the EWS then sends current out to the coil for inducton charging. My 2001 Subaru uses the same coin cell battery in its FOB and I have to replace it every 5 years. Never changed a battery in my 2002 e46 key. No charging??

[@cambelldosantos2148]

I PUT NEW BATTERY AND SOLDER THE NEW BATTERY IN WORKING AGAIN 👍👍

[@slysparkane808]

I recently read that the FOB battery is just for the locking buttons, but the security transponder in your key is powered separately, charged by the induction coil which you displayed. similar to the function of most RF credit cards and key systems. That might be the confusion. However, the actual replacement battery listed by BMW (at least for my car) is a VL2020. which is a rechargeable battery. and My friend's is a LIR2032. which is also rechargeable.

[@Robinbr2]

It's inductive charging, there is also a coil inside the key. The large coil you showed is the primary, current flowing through this induces a charge in the secondary coil within the key this charges the battery.

[@iphonedoc]

No there is not a coil in the key. There is a squiggly line on circuit board which is obviously the receiver for the energy from the 'Ring Antenna' this guy exposed.

[@TheGSXRninja]

The BMW owner's manual clearly reads that the rechargeable battery in the key is charged while in the ignition. And also states that it is recommended to use backup key once a month to maintain key battery. Your "feeling" that is doesn't has no merit.

[@muhammadmustafa9622]

The Manual Rules

[@maddrop]

Yes, it´s rechargeable and that´s a fact ;)

[@bimmermerchant]

+maddrop Thanks for that fact.

[@Allin7days]

First, as many people pointed out below, the ring wire will charge your key fob wirelessly, but in much less current compared to the smartphone charging wirelessly. The latest phones can charge as much as 2-3 Amps (10-15 watts). Your phone can blow up if a non-rechargeable battery is used. The reason your key fob won't is due to an extremely low recharging current (non-zero % chance though). It'll shorten the life of the non-rechargeable battery you're using and you'll have to replace it a lot (significantly) sooner compared to a rechargeable one. Blow up? Less likely, However, you'll have to split open your key a lot more. The bottom line is... use a rechargeable battery.

[@AndytheMachine]

The key definitely changes in the ignition... it's called induction charging

[@bimmermerchant]

Thank you for your feedback.

[@robertking8585]

3 years ago my FOB On my 2001 E39 stopped working. Typical Bimmer problem, the diamond key stopped remoting, I could start the car with the remote key but I couldn’t lock or unlock doors or trunk. So… I cut it open found inside a rechargeable EL2020-3v factory battery. Ask yourself why would BMW put in an expensive EL2020 induction battery if they didn’t design the car to recharge the FOB? Duh…. Bought one for the inflated price of $7 on ebay. Put it in, hit the clicker, it worked…. for 3 days, back to square one. Took it out, performed a voltage reading, the 3v original charge had fallen to 2.9v. What’s the problem, I assumed it wasn’t charging right? NOPE. So I got another one, same thing. Hmmmm. What’s the deal here. I understand induction charging so why isn’t my battery recharging? That’s a fair assessment, off to the stealer dealer. They gave me a bunch of BS about donating $175 for a key and $50 to reprogram the new key because I ruined my old key by cutting it open, I’m screwed, because I cut the key open according to the stealer BS. I didn’t buy it, I knew they were full of shovel ready BS. So I went to the drug store got a 2016 duracell, perfect fit, closed her up, no over-heating no charging issues, been working for almost 3,½ years. I doubt an induction current would cause a non rechargeable battery a problem. Maybe my charging system doesn’t work, do you think I care? I got a lot of time on that cheapo 2016 non-chargeable. Go figure

[@bimmermerchant]

+Robert King Thanks for your input. Much appreciated

[@nwabuezeozuzu6370]

This will be an option if the LIR2025 replacement battery I installed does not work.

[@stephenc2738]

The wire coil attached to the two leads coming from the BMW Key ring, is likely for an induction charging system. This is similar to the same wire coil one finds on a small appliance like an electric toothbrush recharging station. While this could cause an issue with a lithium ion, non-rechargeable battery, it would have to be tested and proven. Considering the age of one's BMW when the original Key Fob battery dies, replacing the rechargeable battery in the Key Fob with a non-rechargeable battery, it is likely to last longer than the remaining, useful life of the car.

[@DJNik1998]

It's Induction charging...

[@ktm640lc4BGD]

ever heard of a guy called nikola tesla and his gadget called transformer? that coil is used only couple of seconds as a key code receiver to read the chip until you start the car and after that you can remove the pcb with a chip and the car will continue to run. try it. that means after you start the car same coil can be used as a primary transformer coil for battery charging. just read the bmw manual.. it is all in there.. they say if you do not use a key for a several months and it stops unlocking the car, just start driving a car with that key and it will recharge. because you dont understand something you say it is not true? wow! please tell us in which garage are you working in so people can avoid it.

[@sambking]

The guy was simply looking for an explanation and some help understanding how it could work. If you say the explanation is in BMW's manual how about posting a link to a pdf of the manual page you claim it is on? It's so easy to be a douchebag. Anyone can do it...as you so aptly demonstrated.

[@ktm640lc4BGD]

how to reply when a moron calls you a douchebag? have you ever had a bmw? i have no idea if there is a pdf... i have a manual in my glove compartment which i read when i bought the car. search for your online version your self.

[@louisluigi]

The manual says indeed the battery in your key is recharged when driving. page 26 dn1.bmwsections.com/dl.php?linklokauth=ZG9jcy92ZWgvbWFuLzIwMDRfbWFudWFsXzVfc2VyaWVzLnppcCwxNDcwMDg0MDMzLDIxMy45My4yMzQuMTM1LDMsMSxMTF8wLCw0MmFhZjNjYTVhNDczNzUwY2NjNGZkNTA0ZTUyMTY3Zg%3D%3D/2004_manual_5_series.zip

[@wasanoix]

Tesla ☺

[@bismarksimon5289]

this is crazy as hell and i apologize but i am seeking HELP!!! i watched and replaced my battery in my 2001 525i key fob and LEAVE it to me i promise i LOST the inside circuit board everything that was inside its just the casing and metal key... anyone know if i can either order a key off amazon or where ever and swap the insides into my key or put a toggle switch to start car i need a cheap fix???? i pais 5,000 for car and have had it about a year and 6 months out of the year its been broke down ive put over 5,000 into it and i am literally sick right now as its parked at work over a week just bought a thermostat and coolent tank..its waitinig to be installed NOW THIS WHYYYY?

[@jameshiggins7983]

That is a contactless induction charger. Most modern batteries will re charge even if not marked as re chargeable and your new battery is probably happily re charging lol

[@richardboyer1866]

I did a little search on differences of CR2020 BR2020 and VL2020 CR and BR are non rechargeable and VL is rechargeable,,so means the BMW system do recharge the battery,,,but as other comments below,,, you can still put in a non rechargeale battery,,,,just that you might have to replace more often,,,the CR2020 might have 7 hours of use,,,if you count the amount of time it takes to make a click on the key,,, you might have 50,400 clicks to go before it dies !!!

[@RamsesTheFourth]

If your math is true. Then its possible that they maybe use rechargeable battery, they maybe do not charge it. Because 50k of clicks is enough to for decades of usage.

[@studlydooright6515]

I owned a 2001 M5 that I recently gave to my son and was having an issue with my key fobs prior to giving him the car. I opened the key using a box cutter with a new blade and retrieved the battery number and search the web. Found that it is in fact a rechargeable battery and that I could purchase it from Amazon which I did. So, that's just a little background so you won't think I'm b.s.ing here. The piece you showed with the 2 copper wires wrapped around inside the plastic is actually 1 copper wire and the ends terminate at the plug you showed. The wrapped wire is in fact what charges the battery in your fob. The wire is referred to as an induction coil and charges your fob battery as current passes through it. It is very similar to the way a Sonic Care toothbrush battery in the toothbrush handle is charged when you set it on its stand/base. Thank you for taking the time to read this and for taking the time to make and share your videos. I've watched/referred to more than one of them in the past. I'm still somewhat in mourning and missing my M as she was my baby for a number of years.

[@bimmermerchant]

Thank you for that valuable information.

[@suninlaw]

Thanks for posting, I was actually looking for confirmation of an induction charger. Not here to argue with you, but dude, that's an induction charger. Again, thanks for posting.

[@BaalZephonMusic]

there is a capacitor (battery) in the key and that is what powers the buttons for locking and unlocking, when you insert the key into the ignition there is a plastic ring peace that goes around where your key goes into your igntion, that is called the antenna ring, it reads your ews code ( anti theft code that allows you to start the car) and also charges up the capactor via magnetic inductance in your key, as long as the key is in the ignition and turned to position 2 it will be charging, so either put your key in and turn it on WITH A BATTERY CHARGER HOOKED UP TO YOUR CAR or drive it, however it does take a couple hours for the key to be fully recharged."

[@bimmermerchant]

+Baal-Zephon Thanks for your input

[@amydarocker9236]

I left many times my bmw e60 diamond key overnight in the ignition for charging and in the morning my key battery becomes fully charged. It does not take too much battery from your car to charge the key.

[@mariomakinas1772]

No continúe con la batería, se trata de una batería recargable y si no es recargable explotará con el tiempo, se trata de un solenoide de carga igual que el que usan los móviles para carga inalambrica.

[@bimmermerchant]

Gracias por ver nuestro Canal. Y por su informacion. Comparta nuestro canal con quien piense puede beneficiarse de el.

[@timmyguevara5651]

nice informative video btw, my two cents, for BMW owners with a dead rechargeable batt, your induction coil may not be working thats why you have a dead batt so its basically safe to put a non rechargeable battery in. and even if your induction coil still works there is no danger of overheating the non rechargeable battery because current is low it takes 30 hours for a full charge how is that going to cause any kind of heating maybe if you drive your car for 3 days straight, there is no scenario that could cause an explosion lol and there are diamond keys on internet without the receiving charging coil on the key and is loaded with a free non chargeable battery for 10 bucks even with switchable 315/433 MHz freq

[@bimmermerchant]

Good points timmy, thanks for sharing.

[@captainfallsalotatppic2508]

On the flip side, if the charging coils ARE working (more than likely the charge coils ARE working as NOT too many things would cause it not to charge) and you do install a non-rechargeable battery in the key fob than you'll be spending upwards of $300 for a key fob. Your Bimmer will not unlock/lock or roll down/up the windows with the press of the buttons of the key fob, lets see here, charging coil not charging the battery or that 10 year old rechargeable battery? I will say, "REPLACE THE BATTERY, IDIOT!!!)

[@MrCuckoobox]

From page 32 of my 2003 E39 (which uses the same style key) owner's manual, it states (there is an arrow at the start of the paragraph, left bottom) "There is an extended life battery in every master key that is charged automatically in the ignition lock as you drive."

[@dennisholmes2881]

aristotle101

[@MrCuckoobox]

Per the BMW Manual, the battery does get charged. Now putting a non-rechargable battery in place where it is being charged, I do not believe is a good idea. If, when, and how that battery will fail, will of course depend on the type of battery used to replace the old one, the frequency the key is used and how long it is being charged. I "recall" reading from a forum that failures occurred on long trips which would make sense because the battery probably got overcharged and over heated. If you just drive your BMW to the grocery store every other day ten minutes each way, you may never have a problem. If you are driving from NY to FL in a day, I would be concerned.

[@josemedeiros007]

I like your videos, but on this issue you are mistaken, newer style 2000 or newer BMW E39 keys are indeed charged through the coil winding using induction, however my previous 1998 BMW 528is had a remote with screws on the back, and I replaced the battery with a CR2032 battery when it was dead, and had the car over 10 years without any problems with the battery overcharging.

[@MrCuckoobox]

Thanks for your vids and wanting to get correct info out. As most BMW owners know BMWs are way over engineered. The fact that the key battery is charged in the ignition lock is just one example. I believe it is great that you are showing a way to repair the key when the battery fails and save some $$. But it is important to make sure you are putting the right replacement battery in the key. I would not want to be driving at highway speeds and have a key leak chemicals all over my lap or catch on fire or destroy my ignition lock.

[@malcgarda5042]

Hi - I have an X5 4.8is 2004... the diamond key definitely has a rechargeable. After 10 years or so mine lost range and then died... too many charge/discharge cycles I guess. I put a new rechargeable in and it worked fine again. I am en electronics engineer so thought I'd experiment. I tried a new but near flat battery... took the car on a long journey with work. At the end of the day the key worked at a good range. I tested the battery with a meter and it was fully charged back up at 3V with a reasonable current capacity....key worked at good long range... the charging must be electromagnetic (induction) from the collar on the ignition and current picked up via a small coil or similar in the key itself... it works - it charges.

[@bimmermerchant]

Thank you for input, much appreciated.

[@tsmgguy]

The VL2020 battery is rechargeable, and recharges when the key is in the ignition. My original key fob batteries have been fine since I bought the car new in 2001. If the batteries had to be periodically replaced, BMW would have made the fob easy to open. Recently, the second key fob's remote features stopped working. I opened up the fob case and found that the micro welds on one of the battery contacts had broken. I bent the contact a little so that it touched the battery, and again it's working. In 22 years, I've not needed to replace either battery. Five keys originally came with the car, BTW, including the two remote keys, a plastic wallet key, a valet key, and an all metal key that opens the trunk only.

[@daverobson9414]

I replaced the battery with a non rechargable in my '04 E60 in 2014. So it has now lasted 10 years. I need to replace it again. My other key is still working on the original battery. Are they really good for 20 years?

[@peterfield1449]

important facts: The original battery is rechargeable. The battery is charged by that coil. Replacing the battery with a non - rechargeable could cause an overheat problem. BUT it is very unlikely to do so it is more likely to just slightly degrade the battery. If you were BMW, would you not put this warning out there?

[@pauldpenta]

Didn't this guy just prove him self wrong? Lol. Why would Bmw wrap around all that copper wire just to send a signal to the car

[@jimmychandler2636]

Peter Field f

[@yol4203]

So as long as im driving the key will recharge , I just brought a used 530I and the battery is dead in the key, just got it 1 day ago ?

[@danl4222]

Certainly it is recharging. Two points though: 1.) Lithium ion batteries are re-chargeable. While the button Lion is not intended for this ... it will so long as the charge current is really low and slow ... which it certainly is in this induction arrangement. 2.) Even if it doesn't charge this li-ion will likely perform similarly to the vanadium pentoxide re-chargeable (even if it weren't receiving a trickle charge) simple because the battery capacity is high.

[@m3andygard]

Google the internal battery, its rechargeable!!! There is a coil in the key and the coil you show creates a magnetic link, exactly like most mobile phones can charge. I am an electronic engineer and i have stripped down that exact key from an E46 3 series to change the RECHARGEABLE battery. These batteries seem to last about 15-20 years before needing replacing. You can open the key with a stanley knife and solder a new 2 legged battery to the PCB. The battery must have 90° split legs, RFID info also uses the same link.

[@bimmermerchant]

Thank you for providing that information.

[@jmchavez001]

you're right @bimmermerchant i change my battery 3 years ago and my key still working fine !! i have no problem or anything related about heating battery

[@NilsJakobson]

just so you know, the RFID coil is also doing charging besides is primary function. when the FOB immoblizer is accepted by EWS it will switch to charging mode and FOB will charge if battery is low. according to your theory then original FOB batteries would not last so many years, but its very common that original FOB lasts 10-15 years and does not run flat, if car is driven regularry. do you really believe that tiny 3v battery would power remote for so many years? have you not heard of cases when FOB stops working just because it was not used for a long time but the other one that is used regularry runs for years? you dont need to be scientist to understand why.

[@bimmermerchant]

+Nils Jakobson Thanks for sharing that information

[@Raptorman5174]

I think your right because I once cut that same key open for my old 2000 323Ci and I put a rechargeable battery in there. It worked for about a week. The coil in the ignition is an antenna to pick up the signal from the chip in the key so in fact is part of your EWS system of the car. It even says EWS on the ring (duh) The car ignition does NOT charge the key. Good job on this video.

[@coddas87]

+Nick Torres my extra key didn't open any doors . drive some hours with it and now everything works . i think it recharge the batteries , if its the ring or not i can't tell but it did :D

[@R3CKL355_]

Nick Torres it says it charges the key in the vehicle manual. Have you ever heard of inductive charging? Its also applied to cell phones, watches, and even toothbrushes.

[@bunky060171]

physics. fact, not a "theory" ...That is an induction coil. Same principle as a cordless rechargeable toothbrush. Induced magnetic field around a core - be it ferrite, iron, or air. In this case the remote circuit board has coil around the edge by the key. Coil in switch induces field in coil on pcb = electrons being stockpiled in battery.

[@bimmermerchant]

Thanks for your input.

[@trumanwoll1]

The battery is definitively rechargeable. The trick to recharge it is to connect the car to a 2V charger, turn the key to on position, and leave it for as long as you care to. The is indeed a coil that charges it. One can now hit it from a few feet away. Thanks for the below article!

[@nzjemountfort]

I just did the replacement today with a CR2016 battery non-rechargable battery (because i didn't see this video), curious if I will have any issues. I have a suspicion nothing will happen. Induction charging uses magnetic waves to recharge compatible battery types, i'm not sure whether non-rechargable batteries will even interface with the induction charging. But if your key has blown up and taken out a few city blocks feel free to let me know!

[@homebiztek]

You are ultimately right because the induction coil will not charge a non-chargeable battery. I do agree that that voltage is probably too low to heat up the battery and cause any kind of damage But what happens after the battery dies. I did order a battery that is rechargeable and I will follow your post. I'm also going to order a new key from Bmw just to be on the safe side because I don't want to be stranded if the battery dies then the car won't start so that's about the only thing that kind of scares me about using your method but otherwise I think it's a soundman fit and it has been more than a year then I doubt that you'll ever have a problem.

[@bimmermerchant]

+Arnulfo Jimenez I feel that the copper coil in the ignition switch is used to send signal from chip found inside key fob to the ews module on the opposite side of steering column. Many people constantly refer to the toothbrush and now iphone wireless charging. They forget that this technology wasn't available 15 years ago. Also, you don't need to buy another key from the dealer because the battery will not affect being able to turn your car on if the key fob battery dies out. Save your money

[@homebiztek]

+bimmermerchant, thanks for your reply. I'm waiting for the battery to arrive in the mail. I'll perform the repair like you suggest. thanks for this video. They want 210 for a new key and I have to drive 1 hour to the nearest dealer to order the key in person. Battery will be here Saturday.

[@homebiztek]

+Arnulfo Jimenez Battery is installed. I had to do quite a bit of cutting to get into the key. I used super glue to bond the two pieces together and then used black super weatherstrip adhesive to seal it back up. A little sanding and a little Vaseline, the key looks new again. Thanks for posting your video. I saved $200. :)

[@bimmermerchant]

That's awesome.

[@chiggychiggy4996]

+Arnulfo Jimenez Hi Your car will still start even if you don't have a battery. I know because I haven't had a battery in my key for 2 weeks (waiting for a new battery). As long as you have the electronic circuit inside the key with the transponder then your car will still start, you just won't have remote lock/unlock.

[@fungames24]

Most battery chargers come with a warning that charging a non-rechargeable battery might cause it to explode. This is where people are getting their information from.

[@bimmermerchant]

Thanks MrCuckoobox for your input, very much appreciated. Again, your input is based on what the manual says and 'recall' reading. Anyone out there actually had a key fob catch on fire or leaked acid due to installing a non-rechargeable battery???? We want to hear from you.

[@Robinbr2]

aristotle101 Also notice (H) EWS pickup and battery charge coil!

[@ousmanesarr7287]

+bimmermerchant The diamond keyfob contain a rechargeable battery and are indeed recharged by the ews antenna by induction . same induction is use to activate the transponder also for the immobilizer. the old remote key just before end /99 year model generally used regular batteries and wasn't rechargeable. ( non diamond shaped remote key). officially trying to recharge a non rechargeable battery will make it overheat and damage the non rechargeable battery over time.i honestly have never tried it to see what happen. But the amount of current transmitted by this antenna is really not much too ....

[@cjawahir1]

this is 100% true , like most new smart phone use the same idea. need be be very close to the coil . if u notice inside the key there are two chips the very small one control the charging rate , the other one have the key data.

[@bimmermerchant]

Thanks for sharing that info Charitar.

[@cjawahir1]

Your welcome bro

[@chrisdaniel9652]

My key hasn't worked for ages. I had to disconnect the battery to do some work on the car . After reconnecting the battery the fob now works ! Try it ! Hopefully it will work for you

[@bimmermerchant]

Thanks for sharing that information with us Chris, hopefully this technique will help some people.

[@MFTrucker]

simple question, if the batteries should be change why the key cannot open easily ??? like in any other vehicle ???

[@skullicon6907]

Is magnetically charged but you meant well

[@twentyonefortytwo]

Just an idea but you could just get a remote start system with or without the alarm so you can use that fob to gain entry and start your BMW. Seems to be the cheapest, easiest way. You just have to donate one of your keys for the starter box or get the extra bypass so that you don't. Spend maybe the same $250 but you get remote start and keep your keys charged or not.

[@4577utube]

it can work with regular battery but its also true it need rechargeable battery because its too little current so you may able to use quite long time but it is design to work with rechargeable battery. you never know when you will get trouble with overheating netter

[@raymondchen6720]

One way you could’ve talked about was comfort access. They’re well known to not have a rechargeable key battery. You could’ve also said that was BMW really willing to have different wiring for a car that was essentially the same in every way but has one different feature in the same year,

[@spotink]

I check with the car manual on my 2002 E39, on page 32, it says that it charges the key while driving. You will find something more about key on page 34.

[@bimmermerchant]

Thanks for sharing.

[@stablemods9646]

It is rechargeable depending on model and what you showed in the video looks exactly like a wireless charger/chip detector and if you don't believe me look up the insides of a wireless phone charger.....just 2 wires wound up witch is also how a lot of electronics are made.

[@bimmermerchant]

Thank you for sharing

[@jessienavarro6737]

i own a 3 series with that same key i was loosing power with the controls as well and over time it just starting working again and later i found it does charge it but while driving so you should of just took a long drive but i don't think its bad to replace it for a non recharge your just gonna have to keep replacing it once it dies

[@davidparada6584]

I completely understand what you mean about the keys great job thanks....

[@bimmermerchant]

Thanks.

[@BraderMusiki]

The key is sending a signal tot the car, so that the car knows witch driver is driving. I have two keys of i put key one in THE car i can see my saved radio stations. With THE other key iT does THE same onley i have a morher radio setting saved on that key. So indeed THE key is sending signals to THE car. I have a E60 520i 2004

[@bimmermerchant]

+Brader Musiki Thanks for sharing that valuable information with us.

[@conundrum112]

I actually charge my spare key by placing it on my Braun rechargeable toothbrush base, it works same principle.

[@mrp8126]

How do you make the connection please?

[@conundrum112]

It works on magnetic inductance. There are two coils one in each unit so when you place one coil next to the other it transfers the energy through.

[@mrp8126]

@@conundrum112 So essentially I can simply just rest the key on it and it should charge ?

[@conundrum112]

Yep.

[@mrp8126]

@@conundrum112 ok I will try it and get back to you 👍

[@acidtablockshifty]

I have 2001 with oem key battery, its now 2020 so im pretty sure they charge, but the key is not working good now, im gonna change the battery soon, gm5 module is also failing, but the keys havent been strong for last 4 years

[@FlyHighWavesSounds]

The coil is induction charging. Magnetic field is transferred to the key and there is charging the battery. The problem with the non chargeable battery is that in time will leak and the electrolyte can corrode / destroy the board. Some batteries are dry but is like in the remote control when you left the batteries too long and leak. Non chargeable batteries they recharge as well a little but it will accelerate the damage. This people referred this when they said to change it. A lithium battery will last many years and thousands regarges. Why to not put one there other than the cost.....

[@VoltageGoat]

I find it funny that you admit that the stock battery is rechargable; however, you don't think the coil is charging the battery. You should question yourself just on that alone. Stock battery is either rechargable or it isn't. Isn't it obvious that the coil you show is what is charging the battery in the key? Yes, the coil is 125Kz. Not only does it charge the battery in the key, but via phase shift, the key is able to talk to the EWS. The EWS sends a handshake to the key and with phase shift keying, the key communicates with the EWS - It's a back and forth. The ONLY reason the battery is in the key is for the power requirements of the key to transmit the signal for the locks/trunk. The battery is NOT used to talk to the EWS to Transponder. In another way to think about it, you could remove the coil, cap, and small chip to allow for communication to the EWS leaving the 'remote' separate from the door locks. Re-charging a non-rechargable battery is bad. Will not likely get hot or explode, but it will leak the battery acid on the circuit board. You can see: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qpO3Y599e6d0l6M

[@elcompanachillo2006]

I think everyone forgot what this video is really about and focused more wether the coils charge or not. This video was intended to get opinions as to wether the none rechargeable battery will heat up and ruin the circuitry inside the fob key once inside the charging port??? I did read a comment from an individual stating that he replaced his battery with a none rechargeable battery and has been working perfectly fine for over 3 yrs. any more people with this experience would like to express their thoughts on it??? It seems like a rip off to go into a bmw dealer and have them make you buy and program a new key when all you need is a battery replacement.

[@bimmermerchant]

We couldn't have stated our point better, thanks gustavo.

[@johndaniel3474]

When your key is in the ignition it's charging while running key dead put battery on charger over night with key in ignition turn on not started if charger is bad get smart watch charger works every time

[@petarpetrovic8744]

The coil we see on this video can be used as the antena in this form and shape.Wireless charging needs much closer distance between the two,which was not the case here.Not to mention how unaccessible that technology was 10-15 years ago.However,it is still unclear,to me,why it uses the elecrical instalation wire onwards.The wire is thin,but for the electronic circuitry transmitions is too thick.

[@sholokov]

This distance is fine for Wireless charging. I have a charging plate installed under my table and phone is able to charge through the thickness of the wood. If asking why I did that. Aesthetic reasons.

[@dazaessox]

inductive charging same method which is used on say cooker hobs because its a sealed key this only reason why it was fitted

[@metrocinema07]

A VL2020 battery is a rechargeable battery, the coil induces the current for charging...

[@KrzysztofC-1]

One thing to consider: if this key fob has a charger built-in then it surely has over-charge protection, like any other battery charger, to protect the battery from being over charged. So when you replace rechargeable battery with a non rechargeable, it will be seen as a fully charged battery for quite some time. So my guess is - if there are going to be any problems with using non-rechargeable battery, they would happen after very long time when the battery is exhausted and the key would try to charge it. BUT induction charging is usually very very slow, so that small current sent to the non-rechargeable battery might do little to it, maybe it will get slightly warm, who knows. You could easily test it by cutting the key open again, then tape it over so it doesn't fall apart but is ready to be opened quickly, then opening they key right after very long multiple-hours long drive and see if the battery is warm or hot or just cold from the attempted charging. Simple. And every car/battery combination might be different. For example cheap battery might be less safe.

[@nonyabeezanus2723]

The factory battery is a rechargeable. The replacement battery costs $35-45. However, it is not always easy to find. I used a regular battery that cost under $5 over a year ago. No issues. No heating. Plus, I can replace it 7 times before the cost would equal using a rechargeable.

[@I4NI_]

Years later, how's that going

[@nonyabeezanus2723]

@@I4NI_ It worked great. After super gluing together I used super glue gel to even it out, sanded with very fine paper, and painted it for a seamless finish.

[@nwabuezeozuzu6370]

@@nonyabeezanus2723 how long does each battery last before you need to replace it? What is the range? What is the spec of the non-rechargeable battery you used?

[@sevati6167]

Correction! key fobs are charged while your key is in ignition actually by that coil of wires you are showing. Its called inductive power transfer. A transmitting coil, which is what you ar showing, will generate an electromagnetic field that induces current that is received by receiving coil (rechargeable battery). Just like your cell phone wireless charging pucks. Now, 👀 will it burn up your key chip? doubt it, its not receiving electromagnetic transmission so its not charging. The only thing, is that if you use non-rechargeable batteries you will have to replace them more often since you control several mechanism with Key its not just unlocking door now, this will use more power and is reason keys were sealed with rechargeable batteries. Yep, probably a little to late with info.

[@TheEcour]

Hi good video as fact are facts . I was told that if the key don't work just put it in to ignition turn 2 and leave it for half an hour the key should çharge . Is there any truth in this. Cheers

[@bimmermerchant]

Sharaq al-haque We haven't tried this theory but we encourage you to try it out and share with us your findings.

[@paularmstrong4649]

shadodame to clear a couple tings up , firstly the bmw manual wouldn't say that your key fob is charged while car is running unless it did and second the charging system is called an INDUCTION charging system , it works the same way as an electric toothbrush works , try to google it . i have not heard the fire theory but because the charging current is very slight to the battery in the keyfob and there is no direct connection to the battery of the car the only effect it will have on a non rechargeable battery is the battery wont last as long as it should and why if your going to go to the bother to change the battery would you not put in a rechargeable battery . i have just done it for my sisters car an all is good . look up Induction charging .

[@funtrainadventures]

thank you for your realistic real time info videos. They help so many of us who are the sheople doing DIY

[@bimmermerchant]

our pleasure. Thank you.

[@leathaface510]

When I did the same to my key fob by replacing it with a non rechargeable battery my battery did heat up just by having it place in the key fob. After that I didn't even bother on trying it on my car and just order a rechargeable one instead and didn't have the same same issue

[@ruffin401]

I'm sorry I don't even own a BMW (the wife does) but is this serious? A copper ring with two points of induction, housed in a plastic casing surrounding the key and you think its not charging? Two words dude - Ben Franklin. No insults intended but ppl may be following your lead. So what are the copper wires for then?

[@pauldpenta]

This guy literally took that car apart opened it up and seen all that copper wire there and he still thinks it's not charging anything. My mind is blown lol

[@Nik-by5mi]

+Todd Ruffin Two Words dude - Nikola Tesla. Tesla invented All induction devices, motors and antennas. Ben Franklin invented the lightning rod and static charged laden jar batteries.

[@nonmutualgroup]

Paul Penta lol

[@karlodrippin]

So guys for the older cars what do us owners have to do when the battery dies or the car doesn’t detect the key, all locks and lights have power but the engine doesn’t turn over

[@vedatmurseli9107]

Is your ignition locked too? Mine won't turn it stays in the first position and won't turn at all. The locks still work

[@karlodrippin]

@@vedatmurseli9107 nah your steering wheel is just locked… just turn the wheel in one direction until the key turns

[@kuthub]

bimmermerchant, you are right to question whether it charges as it would be expected never to need a battery replacement if it did. However, even rechargeable batteries have limited charge cycles. The antenna ring is used both as a receiver for the RFID chip and also as a resonant inductive charger. The same method by electric toothbrush and some smartphones. You can easily prove that the BMW key does charge in ignition by removing the battery from the fob, turn key to ignition position and measure the voltage you see at the - and + points where the battery goes on the fob with a multi-meter. You would see a voltage and that voltage would be received via induction. Take the key out of the ignition and carry out the same test and you will see no voltage. Perhaps you can do a video of this, will hopefully put an end to this discussion and the only video on youtube proving the fact (or theory for some) whether a BMW actually does charge whilst in ignition. These fobs can be charged in philips toothbrush chargers as the inductive resonance coincidentally matches but wont charge on mobile chargers such as QI as they resonate at different frequency.

[@bimmermerchant]

Thanks for that intelligent response

[@kalen7126]

kuthub I gotta try this.

[@strattelepbass]

In order to charge there must be an AC voltage on the coil by the ignition switch, then the voltage transferred to the coil inside the key must be rectified. Am I correct?

[@oscarromero4896]

It works on mine, I had have my car not been used for up to a month & my key fob doesn’t work on opening my car, once I run it it starts working again

[@philipschultz]

This works the same way as when you pay with a contactless debit card. The card reader sends out an induction field then the debit card boots up and with the power its just received it uses that to send its own induction field back to the card reader with your transaction number. All in all pretty clever.

[@bimmermerchant]

Thanks for your input.

[@jasonfontanoz]

Its magnetic induction charging.

[@bobinobobinobobino]

I don't understand electricity and charging either but I do know that when I set my Braun electric toothbrush down on the plastic covered charging post, the toothbrush (motor, battery, tooth tool) are energized to brush my teeth. This design has no points at which metal terminals from one connect to metal terminals of the other (like a wireless home phone). I believe its the same principle.

[@johnbrennan7175]

It was designed to be used with a rechargeable. So why change it when it will work out more expensive in the long run. Put a standard battery into a battery charger and it may charge the battery but it will shorten its service life considerably. That's if it doesn't explode first

[@bimmermerchant]

It won’t explode. It’s been years that this battery has been in used with no issues. We do agree though, install a rechargeable battery. At the time of this video, we didn’t want to order and wait for rechargeable battery, instead, we made a quick stop at Walgreens, got battery, installed it, glued cover and… our key fob was working.

[@jsm3876]

My key fob wasn't looking and unlocking so i first did the reset reprogram and worked, than again it didn't after a few days so tried the reprogramming again with no luck, so i went ahead and replaced the battery and still no luck, only my truck opens with it, Any suggestions ???

[@JJFLD]

Okay I too am confused because when I watched the E46 video handbook, BMW said that the key is recharged while it is inserted into the key cylinder but the key is just one thing of metal. Where is the other piece of metal to complete the circuit and that is what confuses me about these keys.

[@I4NI_]

You are wrong, the transponder charges, the rechargeable battery actually means rechargeable, you can even recharge it on a wireless charger. Try it.

[@matthewhernandez1012]

Ok i opened my key fob up and replaced the battery workrd great but i have a much bigger issue my key fob cracked open and now the guts of it went idk were im now stuck at my motel and idk what to do what is there i can do to bypass this thing please help me

[@AtomikHotRod]

Clearly says it recharges the key in the owners manual.

[@Ethenetguru1]

Magnetic induction dude ! some vehicles don't even have a battery in the key fob because the power is supplied by the process of magnetic induction to the chip in the key. Magnetic induction is also how a transformer works ! If you look at a standard 110 / 240volt to 12v transformer you will see it has two coils of wire ( each coil is a different specific number of turns depending on the desired current output) wrapped around steel formers, there is no physical contact between the two coils yet the whole thing manages to provide 12 volt output. You put current through one coil and it produces a magnetic field which induces a current in the second coil.Look it up, Magnetic induction.Yes it charges the battery in the key without a physical connection.

[@bimmermerchant]

Thanks for your input.

[@vloniello]

It is indeed an inductive charge just like cell phones. I charge my keys on a cellular inductive pad.

[@bimmermerchant]

Thanks for sharing.

[@bimmerDallasBikersUnitedDBUCan]

I have a station wagon, E46 I just bought been sitting for 9 months battery dead. I put a new battery the key fab only unlocks the hatch nothing else.... only drivers door opens with the key 🔑 and passenger window rolls down and up all doors are in dead mode any help please

[@NetworkJames]

That is a wireless recharging coil. The wireless transponder attn. is elsewhere in the car. Change your keyfob battery!!!

[@seanallen8946]

The loop of wire is the same process as the charging of your mobile phone on a wireless charger. This is the reason that the battery is soldered in your key and it's sealed up. Totally a rechargeable key.

[@trucksmashtv]

wow he is great at proving himself wrong

[@Lookitsendy]

Bro, that coil does charge the key be ayse when the ion wrap goings around that coil it create a manetic feild and the battery will get charge from it....

[@bimmermerchant]

Andy Ou Thanks

[@Lookitsendy]

*****​ like all battery, these battery loses charge after a long period of time

[@godgod12341234]

It says in my owners manual...2004 e53 x5 . That the key recharges while your runn8ng the car

[@3880511xxxx]

Even on the older key it recharges, I mean why would they put in a rechargable baterry if its not charging lol

[@zachariahnajm9924]

Those copper wires coiled around are for wireless charging

[@marcopineda1981]

So my issues is that sometimes my key will unlock and lock the car but will not start it? But when it remote doesn't work key function works fine

[@ЕмилСтоянов-ь4з]

My first battery was lived almost 18 years. But next batteries had live only few months.

[@davenguyen4404]

How did you open the diamond keys ? Are they sealed ?

[@bimmermerchant]

They are sealed. Take a sharp blade and cut middle.

[@reynaldomunoz655]

I have 2010 X3 my spare key fob stopped working. I was ready to replace the battery inside but I was told that the key fob can be charged once inside the ignition. After a week now the key fob starts locking and unlocked again

[@bimmermerchant]

Thanks for sharing.

[@darkoz1692]

The non-rechargeable won't heat or explode, it will just eventually go flat however, the BMW battery IS re-chargeable.

[@Robert.K]

Now that we know that this is induction charging. Could I theoretically charge my toothbrush using my E61? :D

[@JoeMama-gx5gw]

Yes you can!

[@ThePinkPanth3r]

I'm currently trying to bring a key back to life on my toothbrush charger. I tried my fancy wireless phone chargers but they don't react to the key. I'll update you soonish

[@forrestwoods3569]

@@ThePinkPanth3r updates

[@ThePinkPanth3r]

@@forrestwoods3569 didn't work lol