If your car has a smart key fob (proximity key), the battery will eventually need replacement. Here are some tips to help this go as smoothly as possible.
A smart key fob will last half as long as a regular fob with a key(two to three years versus four to six). Smart key fobs have a shorter battery life because the smart fob has a receiver and must communicate with the car more often, especially when it’s inside or near the car. You’ll start to notice the battery is dying when the transmitter starts losing range, and you need to be closer to the car for the fob to allow you to unlock or start it. Many cars have a key fob which will display an LED light if any of the buttons are pressed, so if you don’t see this light, it’s often an indicator of a dead battery or other issue with the fob. Some cars may also display a “key fob battery low” warning on the display. You can use a voltmeter to check the fob’s battery if it’s already out. The necessary voltage will be indicated on the side, and if the voltmeter displays any number less than the required voltage, the battery will need to be replaced.
Generally, you should be able to start the car even with a low fob battery because the security chip inside the fob will work even without a battery. However, if the battery is critically low you will likely need to stand very close to the car or insert the fob into a specific slot to start the engine. The fob may also have a conventional key (like that you would use to unlock a door) that can open the driver’s door if the fob battery is dead or the car’s main battery isn’t working. In most instances, a smart key fob’s batteries cannot be recharged once they’re dead and will need replacement.
Once you’ve determined that the battery needs to be changed, the actual process of changing it is not difficult. Directions for your specific vehicle model should be inside the owner’s manual. You will need a small flat or Phillips head screwdriver and of course, a new battery. Again, your car owner’s manual will tell you what type of battery to get. The most common types are CR2025 and CR2032. These can be purchased from auto auto-prats or Walmart shops. Use caution when unscrewing the fob, as the small plastic parts are delicate and can break easily. Additionally, be sure to align the new battery with the fob’s positive terminal or it will not work. If you have any questions, you can contact your vehicle’s dealership. Even if they have to do it for you, a fob battery replacement should be cheap.
Replacing the batteries for a car’s key fob is a fairly simple and straightforward process. By following the advice in this article, you should be able to have your car’s key fob working in little time.
in Naples FL and Car key / smart auto key replacement?
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