BMW 1 Series key fob battery
1 of the 6 model years listed for the BMW 1 Series have a proven battery. The most common answer is Rechargeable. Rows below run oldest to newest; a year can appear twice when the car came with more than one kind of key.
- 2008-2012Key-head remote
Not confirmed yet
- 2008-2011Smart key
Not confirmed yet
- 2012-2013Smart key
Not confirmed yet
- 2013Key-head remote
Rechargeable
Owner's manual: manualslib.com (checked Nov 1, 2026)
Manual text: “Use the remote control on an extended trip to recharge the battery”
Changing the battery
Key with remote in the head
- This type has the buttons built into the key head. The cell is inside that head, between two clipped halves.
- Find the seam around the head. Twist a coin or small flat screwdriver in the notch at the blade end or side until the halves part.
- Replace the cell with the same face showing, and make sure the rubber keypad sits flat before closing.
- Snap it closed and press each button. The car still starts with a dead remote battery on most of these keys, because the start chip needs no battery.
The owner's manual says this remote has a rechargeable cell. It charges while the key is in the ignition or the car is driven. There is no coin cell to buy; if it no longer holds a charge, a dealer replaces the remote.
Keep spare coin cells away from small children. A swallowed coin cell can burn the throat within hours; if it happens, go to an emergency room at once.