UpFix Electronics Repair News and Tech

How to Replace a Soldered Key Fob Battery on a BMW 2008 528i (E60/E90/E87)

Written by Christian Austin | Nov 20, 2025 8:03:15 PM

If you drive an older BMW model such as the 2008 528i (E60), or similar keys in the E87 and E90 family, you may eventually face one of the most common frustrations among BMW owners: the rechargeable key fob battery stops holding a charge, yet it is not a simple pop-out consumer battery.

Earlier BMW E-Series keys use a battery that is physically soldered to the circuit board. That means the job requires careful desoldering, precision tools, proper orientation, and attention to small components that can easily be damaged.

This guide walks through the full process demonstrated by Ernest from UpFix, explaining in detail how these batteries are attached, how to remove them, and how to install the correct 3V rechargeable cell with factory-style tabs.