Replacing your Porsche Key Fob Battery might seem like a straightforward task, but sometimes it can lead to unexpected problems. If you’ve recently changed your Porsche key fob battery and are experiencing issues, you’re not alone. Many Porsche owners encounter situations where their key fob blinks but refuses to operate the car’s functions after a battery replacement. Let’s explore some common issues and troubleshooting steps to get your Porsche key fob working again.
One of the most frequent complaints after a Porsche key fob battery replacement is that the LED indicator on the fob blinks, often brightly, indicating power, yet the car doors won’t lock or unlock remotely. You might find that, just like in the original post, your car starts and runs perfectly fine when using the key, but the remote functions are completely unresponsive. This can be frustrating, especially when you rely on the convenience of your key fob daily.
So, what could be causing this problem with your porsche key fob battery replacement? Here are a few potential culprits and solutions to consider:
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Battery Contact Issues: Sometimes, the new battery isn’t making proper contact with the terminals inside the key fob. As mentioned in the original post, gently lifting the metal prongs that contact the negative side of the battery can sometimes resolve this. Ensure the CR2032 battery is correctly seated and that the contacts are clean and making firm contact.
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Key Fob Reprogramming: In some cases, after a battery change, your Porsche key fob might need to be resynchronized or reprogrammed with the vehicle. While the original post mentions trying a resynchronization method (turning the ignition to ‘run’ and pressing the lock button), it’s not always effective for all models. Consult your Porsche owner’s manual for specific key fob reprogramming instructions for your model year. Often, this process involves a series of steps performed inside the car. Searching online for “porsche key fob programming” along with your specific model and year can also yield helpful tutorials.
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Incorrect Battery Type: While most Porsche key fobs use a CR2032 3V lithium battery, it’s always worth double-checking that you’ve used the correct battery type. Using an incorrect battery, even if it fits, could lead to malfunction.
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Internal Key Fob Damage: Although less common, it’s possible that during the battery replacement process, some delicate internal components of the key fob could have been inadvertently damaged. If you observed any loose parts or damage when disassembling and reassembling the fob, this could be the source of the problem.
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The “Mysterious Green Tube”: The original post mentions a small green tube inside the key fob. This is likely a small glass capsule containing a ferrite core, part of the key fob’s immobilizer system or RFID component. While it’s unlikely to be directly related to battery issues, ensure it is correctly placed if it was removed. It’s best to handle all internal components with care.
If you’ve tried these basic troubleshooting steps and your porsche key fob battery issue persists, it might be necessary to seek professional help. A Porsche dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith specializing in European vehicles will have the diagnostic tools and expertise to further troubleshoot and potentially reprogram your key fob. They can determine if there are more complex issues or if the key fob itself needs replacement.
While the original poster was intrigued by the feature of opening and closing windows by holding the key in the door lock, focusing on resolving the key fob battery issue is the priority. By systematically checking the battery contacts, considering reprogramming, and ensuring the correct battery type, you can often resolve common Porsche key fob problems after a battery change and regain full remote functionality. If all else fails, professional assistance is readily available to get you back on the road with a fully functional key fob.
