How to Start Your 2018 Audi with a Dead Key Fob

Picture this: you’re rushing to work, late for an important meeting, and you go to start your 2018 Audi… only to realize your key fob is dead. It’s a frustrating situation that many Audi owners have experienced. But don’t panic! There are ways to get your Audi started even with a dead key fob.

This guide will walk you through several methods to outsmart a dead battery and get your Audi back on the road. Let’s dive in!

Common Reasons for a Dead Key Fob Battery

Before we jump into the solutions, it’s helpful to understand why your key fob battery might have died. Here are a few common culprits:

Battery Age: Like all batteries, key fob batteries have a limited lifespan. Most last between 3 to 5 years, but this can vary depending on usage and environmental factors.
Frequent Use: The more you use your key fob, the faster the battery drains.
Extreme Temperatures: Exposure to very hot or cold temperatures can shorten battery life.

How to Identify a Dead Key Fob

Sometimes, the issue isn’t a dead key fob battery but rather a different problem. Here are a few signs to help you determine if your key fob battery is the issue:

No Response: Your car doesn’t lock, unlock, or start when you press the buttons on your key fob.
Intermittent Functionality: Your key fob only works sporadically or requires you to be very close to the car.
Warning Messages: Your Audi’s dashboard may display a warning message indicating a low key fob battery.

Starting Your 2018 Audi with a Dead Key Fob

Here are a few tried and true methods to get your Audi started:

1. Using the Physical Key

Most Audi key fobs have a hidden physical key inside. To reveal it, look for a small release button or switch on your key fob. Once you’ve released the physical key, you can use it to:

Unlock Your Car: Insert the key into the driver’s side door lock to manually unlock your vehicle.
Start Your Engine: Locate the designated key fob slot, usually hidden behind a panel or cover near the steering wheel. Hold your dead key fob near this slot while pressing the start button.

2. Jump-Starting Your Key Fob

Believe it or not, you can jump-start your key fob in some cases! If you have a spare car battery or a portable jump-starter pack, here’s how to do it:

Open Your Key Fob: Carefully pry open your key fob casing. You might need a small screwdriver for this step.
Identify the Battery Terminals: Inside, you’ll see a small circular battery. Note the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals.
Connect the Jump Starter: Using jumper cables or the appropriate connectors, briefly touch the positive terminal of your car battery (or jump-starter pack) to the positive terminal of your key fob battery. Do the same for the negative terminals.
Try Starting Your Car: Once you’ve given your key fob battery a quick boost, try starting your Audi again.

Note: This method may not work for all 2018 Audi models and key fob types.

3. Contacting Audi Roadside Assistance

If the previous methods fail or you’re uncomfortable attempting them, don’t hesitate to call Audi Roadside Assistance. They have the tools and expertise to assist you in getting your car started and can even replace your key fob battery if needed.

Preventing Future Dead Key Fob Situations

No one enjoys being stranded with a dead key fob. Here are some proactive steps to avoid finding yourself in this situation again:

Replace Your Key Fob Battery Regularly: Don’t wait for your key fob battery to die completely. It’s a good idea to replace it every 3 to 4 years.
Keep a Spare Key Fob Handy: Having a spare key fob, readily available, can save you time and hassle if your primary one dies.
Pay Attention to Warning Signs: Be mindful of any warning messages on your dashboard or unusual behavior from your key fob, as these could indicate a dying battery.

Get Expert Help with Your Audi Key Fob

Need further assistance with your Audi Key Fob? Don’t let a dead battery leave you stranded.

Contact us today via WhatsApp: +1(641)206-8880 or Email: [email protected]. Our team of Audi experts is available 24/7 to provide immediate support and answer any questions you may have.