Experiencing issues with your 2020 Lincoln Aviator, such as radio presets resetting, or a black screen requiring a system reboot? You’re not alone. These kinds of electrical quirks can be frustrating and are often linked to battery problems. While your initial thought might jump to the car’s main battery, don’t overlook the small battery nestled within your key fob. This guide will walk you through replacing your Lincoln Aviator key fob battery and explore related troubleshooting steps.
Is Your Key Fob Battery the Culprit? Recognizing the Symptoms
Before diving into a replacement, it’s important to identify if your key fob battery is actually the source of your troubles. While a dead key fob battery primarily affects remote functionalities like locking/unlocking doors from a distance or remote start, in some modern vehicles, a low key fob battery can contribute to more subtle electronic issues.
Here are common symptoms indicating it might be time for a new key fob battery:
- Reduced Range: You need to be closer to your Aviator than usual for the key fob to work.
- Intermittent Functionality: The buttons on your key fob work sometimes, but not consistently.
- Dashboard Warning Light/Message: Some Lincoln models display a warning message on the dashboard indicating a low key fob battery.
- No Response: The key fob completely fails to lock/unlock doors or trigger remote start.
However, if you’re experiencing issues like radio presets resetting, system reboots, or a black screen as described in the original post, the problem is more likely related to the car’s main battery, not just the key fob.
Step-by-Step Guide: Replacing Your 2020 Lincoln Aviator Key Fob Battery
Replacing the key fob battery in your 2020 Lincoln Aviator is a straightforward process you can do yourself. Here’s how:
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Identify Your Key Fob Type: Lincoln Aviator key fobs can vary slightly in design. However, the battery replacement process is generally similar across models. You’ll typically have a standard key fob with physical buttons.
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Gather Your Tools and Battery:
- You’ll need a small flathead screwdriver or a similar thin tool to pry open the key fob.
- Purchase a new CR2450 3V lithium battery. This is the standard battery type for most modern Lincoln key fobs. You can find these at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers.
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Locate the Notch to Open the Fob: Examine your key fob closely. You should find a small notch or seam, usually on the side or bottom of the fob. This is where you’ll insert your flathead screwdriver.
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Carefully Pry Open the Fob: Gently insert the flathead screwdriver into the notch and twist or pry carefully to separate the two halves of the key fob. Avoid using excessive force, as you could damage the casing.
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Remove the Old Battery: Once the fob is open, you’ll see the battery. Note the orientation of the battery (positive side up or down) before removing it. You may be able to gently pry it out with your fingertip, or you can use the flathead screwdriver if needed, being careful not to damage the battery contacts.
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Insert the New Battery: Install the new CR2450 battery, ensuring it’s in the correct orientation (matching how the old battery was placed).
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob back together until they are securely closed. You should hear a click or feel them snap into place.
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Test Your Key Fob: Test the buttons on your key fob to ensure they are now working correctly.
Example of a typical Lincoln key fob. Note: Your specific key fob may vary slightly.
Troubleshooting Beyond the Key Fob Battery: Addressing Vehicle Electrical Issues
If replacing your key fob battery doesn’t resolve the electrical issues you’re experiencing (like radio presets resetting or system glitches), the problem likely lies with your 2020 Lincoln Aviator’s main vehicle battery.
Here’s why a weak vehicle battery can cause these problems and how to address it:
- Modern Vehicles and Battery Sensitivity: Modern cars like the Lincoln Aviator are heavily reliant on complex electronics and computer systems. These systems are very sensitive to voltage fluctuations. A weak or failing battery, even if it seems to start the car okay, can cause a cascade of electrical problems.
- Symptoms of a Weak Vehicle Battery: Beyond starting issues, a weak battery can manifest in various ways:
- Radio and Infotainment System Glitches: Forgetting presets, black screens, slow response times.
- Warning Lights: Erratic or unexplained warning lights on the dashboard.
- Transmission Issues: In some cases, a low voltage can even affect transmission shifting.
- Engine Performance Problems: Rough idling or hesitation.
Steps to Diagnose and Resolve Vehicle Battery Issues:
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Battery Voltage Check (Initial Check, But Not Definitive): As the original poster mentioned, a simple voltage check at AutoZone showed 12.2V, which seems “okay” at first glance. However, resting voltage alone isn’t a reliable indicator of battery health under load.
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Professional Battery Load Test (Crucial): A load test is essential to accurately assess your vehicle battery’s health. This test simulates the battery working under stress and reveals its ability to hold a charge and deliver sufficient power. As the original reply correctly pointed out, a proper load test takes time and is far more informative than a simple voltage reading.
- Where to Get a Load Test:
- Lincoln Dealership: Dealerships often offer free battery load tests and have the expertise to diagnose Lincoln vehicles. Check for coupons on the Lincoln owner website or your local dealer’s website.
- Reputable Auto Repair Shop: Many independent auto repair shops have battery testing equipment.
- Auto Parts Stores (with Caution): While some auto parts stores offer “free battery tests,” ensure they perform a proper load test, not just a quick voltage check.
- Where to Get a Load Test:
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Battery Replacement (If Necessary): If the load test indicates your battery is weak or failing, replacement is recommended. Modern car batteries typically last 3-5 years, and a 2020 Aviator might be due for a new battery, especially if it’s the original factory battery.
- Motorcraft Batteries: Lincoln (and Ford) often use Motorcraft batteries. Check for discount coupons on the Ford or Lincoln owner websites or dealer websites for Motorcraft batteries.
- Battery Group Size: Ensure you replace your battery with the correct group size specified for your 2020 Lincoln Aviator. Consult your owner’s manual or a battery size guide at an auto parts store.
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Check for Parasitic Drain (Less Likely, But Possible): In rare cases, a parasitic drain (something in the car constantly drawing power even when it’s off) can cause battery issues. If you replace the battery and problems persist, a mechanic can check for parasitic drain.
Conclusion: Prioritize the Vehicle Battery for Electrical Issues
While key fob battery replacement is a simple maintenance task, for electrical problems like radio resets and system glitches in your 2020 Lincoln Aviator, focus on your vehicle’s main battery first. Get a professional battery load test to accurately assess its health and replace it if needed. This is the most likely solution and a proactive step to prevent further electrical gremlins. Replacing your key fob battery is a good maintenance step to ensure reliable remote access to your vehicle, but it’s unlikely to be the fix for more significant electrical concerns.
