BMW Key Fob Battery Dead, Spare Key or Keys Locked in the Car?

BMW cars in Singapore

BMW is a common sight in Singapore, from 3 Series and 5 Series sedans to X1, X3 and X5 SUVs, owned by families and companies alike. We work on BMW models including the 1 Series, 3 Series, 5 Series, X1, X3, X5 and iX.

A typical BMW call

This is the kind of BMW call we often get: At a petrol station, a 3 Series owner puts the key on the passenger seat while checking the tyres. Comfort Access locks the car when the doors close. The key is visible through the window but out of reach. We open it without damage and suggest a spare key kept at home.

What's different about BMW keys

Comfort Access unlocks the car when you touch the handle and locks it when you walk away. Some newer models also support a digital key on your phone. Both still depend on a working key or phone battery, so a physical spare matters. BMWs use remote keys and, on many models, Comfort Access, which unlocks the car when you touch the handle. Some newer models use a display key. Most BMW keys hold a small emergency key blade.

BMW key fob battery dead? How to get in and start

1. Get in: Press the release on the fob and slide out the emergency key. The driver's door lock is often under a small cover at the end of the handle.
2. Start the car: Hold the key against the marked area on the steering column, or place it in the marked spot in the centre console or cup holder on newer models, then press the start button.

Details vary by year, so check your manual. Still stuck? Call us. Key locked inside instead? See keys locked in the car.

BMW key fob battery replacement

Most BMW fobs take a 3V coin cell (often CR2032 or CR2025): copy the type printed on the old one and fit the new cell the same way up. Not working after the swap? See key fob not working after a battery change; if the backup start above works, the BMW fob itself is fine.

BMW spare key

Down to one BMW key? We clone BMW remote key fobs from a working key, after checking your NRIC against the log card. We don't clone smart (keyless) keys. Cloning costs S$100–S$1,000 depending on the car, so WhatsApp 9224 9224 the model, year and a key photo to confirm first.

Tips for BMW owners

• Find the emergency key blade in your fob now; on many models it's released by a small button on the side.
• If the remote stops working, try holding the key against the marked spot on the steering column to start the car (check your manual).
• Keep a spare fob, because a BMW key from the dealer can take a while.

Independent locksmith, not affiliated with BMW. All prices.

Related: Mercedes-Benz · Audi · Porsche · spare key fob cloning · all car brands