BMW Keys Fob information

Got a key fob that doesn't work? Send it in for checkout and repair BMW Key Fob Repair

Before buying a new or contacting me regarding key repair read this web page to try and narrow down the source of the problem-> click here

The top left key is the old rubber button key. It has three buttons and a red LED that blinks when a button is pressed. This key has a user replaceable CR2016 lithium battery. It was phased out during the 2000 model year and replaced with the bottom left key also called the diamond shaped key.

The new key also had three buttons, but, the LED did not carry over. This key is permanently sealed and contains a VL2020 rechargeable battery. Supposedly the battery should last the life of the car. The battery is recharge when in the ignition via the EWS ring antenna. If you need one of these batteries I have them available, but, it's a bitch to get open and a lot of times it's not even a battery problem. Sometimes the switches go bad, sometimes it's a tiny crack in one of the solder joints. Consider using my BMW Key Fob Repair service. I will fully check out the key replace battery or switches if necessary, repair cracked solder joints, etc.

Recharging the battery in the new key fob. If not used the key will be discharged in approximately 18 months. It requires approximately 30 hours to fully charge a completely discharged battery. The remote can be operated 15 times after being charged for 30 minutes. Charging only occurs when the ignition is in the Accessory or On positions. It does not charge in the Off position.

I now stock the VL2020 rechargeable battery used in the BMW key fobs from about 2000 on. The batteries are $10 each plus $3 shipping within the US or $5. I have never found a dead battery in the key however. If you replace it, the key most likely will not work.

Some people believe that when you order a new BMW key that it gets cut and sent from Germany. That's not true. At least not true if you order the key in the US. Keys ordered in the US come from BMW Key Center in Tennesse and arrive at your dealership for pickup in about 2 business days.

The key part numbers below are for the E46. Other models may have other part numbers, but, the prices should be the same.

Service Key	General Key Illuminated	Spare Key	Master Key from 09/99	Master Key up to 09/99

Service key - No remote, works in the door and ignition only. Also known as the valey key.

General key - No remote, but, works in all key holes (door, ignition, glove box and trunk) - Discontinued

Spare key - No remote, but,works in all key holes (door, ignition, glove box and trunk)

Master Key from 09/1999 (diamond) - Wireless remote, works in all keys holes (door, ignition, glove box and trunk)

Master Key up to 09/1999 (rubber button) - Wireless remote, works in all keys holes (door, ignition, glove box and trunk)

Prices are from ECStuning.com as of 2012/01/20.
Master keys are for 315MHz RF keys used in the US and some other areas of the world.

Key Resyncing procedure.

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