ApexSpeed

Hi all, recently bought a 2006 E61 that has very few things that need tending to. One of them though was the dead battery in the key fob. Went through the typical fixes including buying a new Panasonic battery on eBay, cutting the key open, soldering in a new batt and sealing it back up.

Problem is, the battery was sent with no charge in it. I can't test it, can't do anything with it until it charges... in the car. The battery reseller claims its to sell perfect batteries, but it's a flawed concept. The battery is supposed to require 8-12 hours to fully charge. I should cross the 8-hour mark for seat time in the car sometime in June, most likely.

Does anyone know any other more efficient means to charge the fob battery without it sitting in a car for 8 hours?

jtbgonesailing

On my 05, with your diamond keys, I use my Braun OralB electric toothbrush charging base to top off both keys every 6 months. Will have owned the car 12 years come April and have had no problems using this process. Just place key where the back of the key is laying against the center post on the charging stand overnight. Have heard this method will work on the SonicCare brushes also, but have no first hand experience.

Good luck....

ApexSpeed

That's awesome! Exactly what I was looking for. Very much appreciated!


doug

jtbgonesailing

Neglected to mention... After a couple hours on the OralB charger, the diamond key case will feel warm to the touch. A good sign that it is taking a charge....

ApexSpeed

Great tip. I'm going to try it this evening and report back. I'm hoping I don't have to reprogram the key from being dead so long.

Boost7

excellent jtbgonesailing - I just did the battery replacement in my key recently, but ordered it from Amazon. I guess I lucked out, everything worked as normal or even better now. I have much better range after the battery replacement.