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Replacing the Key Battery

Model: BMW Serie 3 E46 - Years 1998-2006
Part: Key

The key remote battery is not designed to be opened. In case of a failure in the key's electronics, or simply the internal battery, the only solution proposed by the manufacturer is to replace the key, at a cost of hundreds of dollars.

In this video, see how a user manages to open their vehicle's key by cutting around the plastic with a utility knife (and injuring a finger in the process).

Once opened, it is very easy to replace the faulty battery with a new one, available on the market for just a few dollars. Finally, you will need to solder the two parts back together.

Updated on 1 February 2026 by ScegliAuto

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