Z4 Keyfob Rechargeable Battery Query

[Ell201275]

I need to replace the rechargeable battery in my spare keyfob as it goes dead after not being used for a week.

I was hoping it was just a case of replacing the actual battery, but after speaking to my local main dealer, they say I need a new £175.00 keyfob (matched to my chassis number) as the battery is soldered to the circuitboard inside the keyfob & can't be changed on it's own.

Is this true & is there a cheaper way to solve this issue without losing any keyfob functionality?

Thanks in advance.

 

[colb]

Dealer is wrong, the fob has to be cut open to replace the battery, you should find a battery on ebay if you want to diy and yes it has to be soldered onto the board. You can also send your key away to a few places that will refurb the key for you.
https://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2380057.m570.l1313&_nkw=BMW+Z4+Key+battery&_sacat=0
Just make sure you get the correct battery, probably need to cut the fob open to see what you have in yoursn first.
Google search should find companies who refurb keys.

 

[Pondrew]

There is more info on the thread linked below
https://z4-forum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1888844#p1888844

 

[mcbutler]

Its worth simply ringing around local key cutting shops. many of them supply fobs already fitted with batteries, they just cut the blade to match your key then pop out to your car and code it to your vehicle.
Try the 'cobblers and keys' dealers, you might have a local shop (for local people lol)....
I got a key for my transit for £100 that was a LOT more expensive at delaers and 'specialist' refurbishers...

 

[Ell201275]

Thanks for all the info.

In the end, I found this company on ebay that I've made an offer of £25 (including the cost of the battery & postage) which they've accepted.

It seems to look ok & they say the right things.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/391912433089?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649

Hopefully they'll do a good job!

 

[Ell201275]

Just a quick update:

I received my key back today with it's new rechargeable battery.
I'm impressed with the speedy turnaround of 5 days (including the weekend & bank holidays) & the key works perfectly so far.

I didn't have to reset it or reconnect it to my car as I thought I'd have to.

I'm going to not use it for a couple of months & see if it retains it's charge as it should do.