Have you ever experienced the frustration of a Chrysler 300C key fob that suddenly stops working after a battery replacement? It’s a common issue, and luckily, often easily resolved. This guide will walk you through the process of replacing your Chrysler 300C key fob battery and troubleshooting common problems, ensuring you’re not left locked out.
Replacing the battery in your Chrysler 300C key fob should be a straightforward task. Typically, these key fobs use CR2016 3V batteries. However, sometimes, even after a battery replacement, your key fob might refuse to cooperate. Let’s explore why this happens and how to get your key fob functioning again.
One of the first questions many Chrysler 300C owners ask is whether replacing the battery wipes the key fob’s memory. Generally, Chrysler 300C key fobs are designed with non-volatile memory, meaning they should retain their programming even when the battery is removed. However, issues can still arise.
Let’s delve into the steps for battery replacement and what to do if your Chrysler 300C key fob isn’t working afterwards.
Step-by-Step Chrysler 300c Key Fob Battery Replacement
While the exact method can slightly vary depending on your specific key fob style, here are general steps for replacing the battery:
- Identify Your Key Fob Type: Chrysler 300C models can have different key fob designs. Locate the small notch or seam on your key fob.
- Open the Key Fob Casing: Use a small flathead screwdriver or a coin to gently pry open the key fob casing at the notch. Be careful not to damage the plastic.
- Access the Battery Compartment: Once opened, you’ll see the battery compartment. Note the orientation of the old battery (positive and negative sides).
- Remove the Old Battery: Carefully remove the old CR2016 battery. You might need to gently push it from the side to loosen it.
- Insert the New Battery: Place the new CR2016 3V battery into the compartment, ensuring the correct polarity (usually positive side facing up).
- Close the Key Fob Casing: Snap the key fob casing back together until it’s securely closed.
Chrysler 300C Key Fob Battery Replacement
Image showing a Chrysler 300C key fob with its battery compartment open, ready for a battery replacement.
Troubleshooting: Key Fob Not Working After Battery Change
If you’ve replaced the battery and your Chrysler 300C key fob is still unresponsive, here are a few potential reasons and solutions:
- Incorrect Battery Installation: Double-check that you’ve installed the new CR2016 batteries correctly, paying attention to the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals. Incorrect polarity is a common mistake.
- Battery Voltage Issues: Even new batteries can sometimes be faulty. Use a multimeter to test the voltage of the new batteries to ensure they are providing the correct 3V.
- Key Fob Reprogramming Might Be Needed: In some cases, although rare for a simple battery change, your Chrysler 300C key fob might need to be reprogrammed to your vehicle. This is more likely if the battery was left out for an extended period, although generally, it shouldn’t cause memory loss.
Reprogramming Your Chrysler 300C Key Fob
For Chrysler 300C models equipped with an EVIC (Electronic Vehicle Information Center), you might be able to reprogram your key fob yourself. Here’s a general procedure based on user experiences:
- Enter the Vehicle and Turn Ignition to “ON”: Do not start the engine, just turn the ignition to the “ON” position.
- Navigate to EVIC Programming Menu: Use the steering wheel controls to navigate through your EVIC menu to find the “Program Remote” or “Train Remote” option. The exact menu names may vary slightly depending on the model year. Refer to your owner’s manual for precise instructions on accessing the EVIC programming menu.
- Follow EVIC Prompts: The EVIC will display instructions, usually prompting you to “Press Remote LOCK & UNLOCK Then Press UNLOCK”.
- Press and Hold Buttons on Key Fob: Simultaneously press and hold the “Lock” and “Unlock” buttons on your key fob for a few seconds, then press and hold the “Unlock” button as prompted by the EVIC.
- Listen for Chime: The vehicle should chime to indicate successful programming.
- Test the Key Fob: Try using your key fob to lock and unlock your Chrysler 300C.
Dealership Programming
If the EVIC programming method doesn’t work, or if your Chrysler 300C model doesn’t have EVIC programming capabilities, you might need to visit a Chrysler dealership or a qualified locksmith for key fob reprogramming. They have specialized tools to reprogram your key fob to your vehicle.
Preventative Tip: Quick Battery Change
One user in a forum suggested a helpful tip: when replacing the battery, try to do it quickly, ideally within 15 seconds. The idea is to minimize any potential discharge that might lead to memory issues, although this is not officially documented as a necessity for Chrysler 300C key fobs.
Conclusion
Replacing the battery in your Chrysler 300C key fob is usually a simple DIY task. By following the steps outlined and troubleshooting potential issues like battery polarity or voltage, you can often resolve the problem yourself. If reprogramming is needed, the EVIC method might work for some models, but dealership or locksmith programming might be necessary in certain situations. Keeping your key fob battery fresh ensures convenient access and security for your Chrysler 300C.
