Experiencing issues with your 2019 Lincoln Nautilus key fob? A common culprit, especially after a few years of use, is a depleted battery. Like any electronic device, the key fob relies on a small battery to operate its remote functions – locking and unlocking your doors, remote start, and panic alarm. When this battery starts to weaken, you might notice decreased range or inconsistent responses when pressing buttons. Fortunately, replacing the key fob battery in your 2019 Lincoln Nautilus is a straightforward process you can easily handle yourself, saving you time and a trip to the dealership.
Understanding Your Lincoln Nautilus Key Fob Battery
The key fob for your 2019 Lincoln Nautilus uses a CR2025 type battery. This is a common 3V lithium coin cell battery, readily available at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers. Knowing the correct battery type is the first step in ensuring a smooth replacement. These batteries are known for their longevity, but factors like usage frequency, temperature extremes, and even the fob’s storage conditions can affect their lifespan.
A fresh CR2025 battery typically outputs around 3.3V. As the battery discharges with use, this voltage gradually decreases. While a battery might still function at around 3.0V, you may start experiencing performance issues. According to some sources, a voltage reading of around 2.9V at normal room temperature indicates that the battery is nearing the end of its life and replacement is imminent. Keeping an eye on these voltage indicators, if you have a multimeter, can be a proactive way to avoid key fob failure.
Step-by-Step Battery Replacement for Your 2019 Lincoln Nautilus Key Fob
Replacing the battery in your 2019 Lincoln Nautilus key fob is a simple DIY task that requires minimal tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
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Gather Your Tools and Battery: You’ll need a small flathead screwdriver or a similar thin tool to gently pry open the key fob. Make sure you have a fresh CR2025 battery ready.
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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 will insert your flathead screwdriver.
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Carefully Pry Open the Fob: Insert the tip of your screwdriver into the notch and gently twist. The key fob case is designed to snap open, so apply steady, gentle pressure until the two halves of the fob separate. Avoid using excessive force, which could damage the plastic casing.
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Remove the Old Battery: Once the fob is open, you’ll see the battery compartment. The CR2025 battery is usually held in place by small clips. Note the orientation of the battery (positive side up or down) before removing it. You can use your fingertip or the edge of the screwdriver to carefully pry out the old battery.
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Insert the New Battery: Install the new CR2025 battery, making sure to match the correct orientation as the old battery. The positive (+) side of the battery should usually face upwards, but double-check the markings in the battery compartment if you are unsure.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob case and press them firmly together until they snap back into place. Ensure that the case is fully closed and secure.
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Test Your Key Fob: Once reassembled, test all the buttons on your key fob to ensure they are working correctly. Lock and unlock your doors, try the remote start, and check the panic button to confirm the new battery is functioning as expected.
Alt text: Close-up of a 2019 Lincoln Nautilus key fob being opened to show the battery compartment during a battery replacement process, highlighting the CR2025 battery.
Tips for Extending Your Key Fob Battery Life
While CR2025 batteries are designed to last, there are a few things you can do to potentially extend the life of your 2019 Lincoln Nautilus key fob battery:
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Avoid Excessive Button Presses: Accidental or prolonged button presses, especially when the fob is in your pocket or bag, can drain the battery. Be mindful of where you store your keys and avoid putting pressure on the buttons unnecessarily.
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Store Your Key Fob Properly: Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can negatively impact battery life. Avoid leaving your key fob in direct sunlight or freezing conditions for extended periods.
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Check for Button Issues: Ensure that none of the buttons are stuck or continuously pressed. If a button is jammed, it could constantly send signals and drain the battery prematurely.
Conclusion
Replacing the battery in your 2019 Lincoln Nautilus key fob is a simple and cost-effective maintenance task. By following these steps, you can quickly restore full functionality to your key fob and avoid the inconvenience of a dead battery. Regularly checking your key fob’s responsiveness and being aware of the typical battery lifespan can help you proactively address battery replacement and ensure you’re never caught off guard by a non-functioning key fob.
