BMW Key Fob Repair Service

Instructions for sending key fobs in for repair
Last updated July 17, 2025

This is not a key fob battery replacement service. This is a key fob repair service. Most non-working remote fobs that come in for repair have batteries that are not bad, but, have other problems. If the problem is the battery then it will be replaced. If the battery shows signs of being weak or has problems charging then it will be replaced. These conditions are rare. I do not replace batteries just because you want it replaced.

What can you fix? I mainly fix BMW diamond shaped key fobs where the remote function has stopped working, but, still starts the car. Before sending in any key make sure it needs repair. Try syncing the key to the car first, key sync procedure. If key sync does not work or it works, but, soon stops working and needs to be sync'd again it probably needs to be repaired. I also repair keys that won't start allow engine cranking. I do not do cosmetic repairs. If the round BMW logo is missing I will not replace it, but, you can buy new ones from BMW. For diamond shaped remotes used with E38, E39, E46, E52, E53 the part number is 66122155753. For the rectangular remotes with hidden key blade for E60, E61, E63, E64, E82, E88, E90, E91 and others, the part number is 66122155754. They should cost about $10. The -753 part is 11mm is diameter with a adhesive flat back and clear domed rubber front. The -754 part is just a pieces of stamped aluminum with a slightly concave back and painted front.

How long does it take? It usually take about 5-7 days.

How much? For keys that have not been cut open, repair is $60 including return shipping within the US or $70 including return shipping outside the US. For keys that have been cut open and the original battery has been modified, add $25. For keys that have been cut open and the original battery has not been modified in any way, add $15. Why the extra fee? Well because I get a lot of keys that are messed up and fixing the damage takes more time than repairing the key in the first place. I have taken pictures of some of the damage I have found in customers keys and have posted them here on my key fob wall of shame.

How to pay If you are within the US, payment can be made via money order, Zelle, Venmo, cashier's check or cash. If you are an auto shop I will accept a company checks made out to Scott Johnson. For Zelle use email p9019@yahoo.com, for Venmo my ID is @Scott-Johnson-1241 and 310-283-4273 for verification if it asks for my phone#.

What to send Send just the remote. If the key blade is removeable, please take it out and keep it. Please remove any key chains, rings or covers. For repair all key chains, rings and covers need to be removed and will most likely get misplaced and lost.

How to send it Do not send it in a standard letter envelope. It will get chewed up in the automated letter sorting equipment and the key will most likely get lost. Send it in a padded envelope or small box. I use what's called a size #00 (6"x10") bubble mailer. They have similar ones at the post office for $1.29 and shipping will be about $5 for Ground Advantage. For about $10 you can send it Priority Mail Small Flat Rate Box and use the free box that the post office supplies. Do not send signature required.

Important information that you must read Do not send signature required. Inside the package include a note with the address you want it mailed back to. If you want tracking information, include your email address and write it neatly! If there is no note I will take the address off the check. Many times I have had packages returned to me weeks later because the address on the check was no good. Cross it out if it's no longer valid. Do not assume that since you called or emailed that I remember you. You are not the only person I get things for repair from. Also let me know what the problem is, for example: doesn't start the engine, no lock/unlock/trunk release, won't sync, works for a while and then stops working again. You don't have to write much, just a few words is fine.

Where to send it
Send your key to:
Scott Johnson
25238 Denny Road
Torrance, CA 90505
U.S.A.

If you have any other questions shoot me an email at scott@bmwgm5.com or call me at 310-283-4273 (DO NOT text me), if I don't answer then send me an email.I'm in California so please don't call me before 9am pacific time.

Want it repaired right away?
I can also repair keys if you bring them to me in person. I'm a Los Angeles suburb called Torrance. Most keys are repaired in about 40 minutes, but, some take longer if the problem is hard to find. Pricing higher though, $75 for keys that have not been cut open, $15 extra if the key has been cut open and $25 extra if the key has been cut open and the original battery has been tampered, modified or ruined. Most keys I get in for repair do not need the battery replaced as the problem is NOT the battery. This is not a key fob battery replacement service! This is a key fob repair service, not a battery replacement service. If the battery is the cause of the problem then it will be replaced.