[newbmwuser]

The cars great, no regrets at all, but one thing bugs/puzzles me. The key seems to activate by proximity.

How does the key battery charge? Is there a key hole im not aware of?

Thanks

[J1n]

Hope this helps mate.

[SomeRandomer123]

I believe holding the back of the fob to the key icon on the steering column charges the battery, and the car will alert you to do this if necessary.

[wdlv]

Originally Posted by SomeRandomer123

I believe holding the back of the fob to the key icon on the steering column charges the battery, and the car will alert you to do this if necessary.

Can you clarify SomeRandomer123? I was wondering about the battery myself (even thought I'm sure it won't be an issue for some time).

I know on the e90, there was a key fob slot that would charge it, however, I was not aware of one on the f30, that would be news to me but excellent if true.

[newbmwuser]

haha as long as the battery is replaceable, im cool

my last mini's key battery was not replaceable, BMW asked $500 for a replacement

[claykin]

I don't see anywhere on the page you posted where it discusses charging. New key uses a Lithium coin cell, you simply replace it when depleted. If the remote battery is depleted, you hold the key next to designated location on steering column and it will wake the key electronics (even with a dead battery) enough to allow you to start the car. Does not charge the key, but allows the car to validate you have the correct key (even with a dead battery).

As far as the proximity is concerned, the electronics in the key sleep until they are woken by a special signal coming from your car. This is how they can preserve the battery to last for a couple years+.

[SomeRandomer123]

Originally Posted by wdlv

Can you clarify SomeRandomer123? I was wondering about the battery myself (even thought I'm sure it won't be an issue for some time).

I know on the e90, there was a key fob slot that would charge it, however, I was not aware of one on the f30, that would be news to me but excellent if true.

Yes you're right about the E90. And I'm pretty sure I'm right about the F30, but not certain. One thing I am sure is that even if the battery is dead, holding the fob to the key icon on the steering column will allow the car to recognise the key and engine start.

[theblackmamba]

My key doesn't seem to have a long proximity like I cant lock my car past 10 feet. Any thoughts on this?

[newbmwuser]

Originally Posted by thatswhatsh3said

My key doesn't seem to have a long proximity like I cant lock my car past 10 feet. Any thoughts on this?

My guess would be,
try with both keys (spare and original), try changing the battery and see if that helps, if not the dealer would probably be able to help