Do keys have a replaceable battery?

[05ImolaRed]

I notice that 1 of my keys has a pretty short range comp to the other. Is there a way to replace battery w/in key? I dont have factory or aftermarket alarm.

I searched forum first w/o success

Thanks!
Chuck

[Johnmadd]

I notice that 1 of my keys has a pretty short range comp to the other. Is there a way to replace battery w/in key? I dont have factory or aftermarket alarm.

I searched forum first w/o success

Thanks!
Chuck

Good..?

I have to be almost touching my car when I hit the unlock or lock on my key

[HokieZHP]

I'm not 100% sure but I feel like it is not replaceable. Normally keys with replaceable batteries have a little slot in the case somewhere to put in a pry tool to open up the case. These key cases seem pretty well sealed up.

[Hermes]

mine is like that sometimes, the battery is NOT supposed to be replaceable - its supposed to charge while in the ignition. DW (a while ago) told me to try this but I just havent done it yet (from http://www.zhpmafia.com/forums/showt...Issues-DIY-s):


27. Key Re-Initialization

Get in and close all doors.
Turn on the ignition and turn off quickly. (No more than 5 seconds) to start the process. Next action must take place within 30 seconds.
Remove the 1st key.
Hold the key up near your left shoulder (this is so it is closer to the remote reciever antenna - someone else suggested this).
Hold down the unlock button (which is button 1 on my key) and press the lock button 3 times (center button on my key). Release the unlock button and the doors lock which confirms the operation.
Quickly repeat steps 4 & 5 for key #2 etc.
If it does not work, try doing the keys in opposite order. Key 2 then key1, vs 1 then 2.

Remember to alternate your keys from time to time so that you keep the batteries in both charged. Some have found success with placing the key into a rechargeable toothbrush charger overnight as well.

Another thing you can do is to replace the battery! It's not officially possible (or recommended) for the new key design (2000+) but it can be done.

[danewilson77]

1. Key re-initialization as my man said above.

If that doesn't work...

2. Change out the battery.....

http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=481585

If that doesn't work....

3. Buy a new key = $200ish....

[gr330zhp]

Our keys charge while they are in the ignition, so use it for a week or so. That's what I do, every couple weeks I switch keys. I have great range on both of my keys

[danewilson77]

Our keys charge while they are in the ignition, so use it for a week or so. That's what I do, every couple weeks I switch keys. I have great range on both of my keys

Correct. I guess I assumed he had been using it. Good backup Stathi.

[knevor]

I found this for a friend of mine who had bad keys. He said the service was great and much cheaper than a new key.
http://www.bmwgm5.com/default.htm

[danewilson77]

I found this for a friend of mine who had bad keys. He said the service was great and much cheaper than a new key.
http://www.bmwgm5.com/default.htm

It's my understanding that if one of his keys works great, then the GM5 is good.

[telijah]

Change out the battery.....

http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=481585

I recently did this, but didn't need a new battery. Split the key open and found the break in the connection from the battery to the board. A little solder job and my key works like new. I have about a 30-40 foot range with my key.