Replacing your Chrysler key fob battery should be a straightforward task, but sometimes it can lead to unexpected issues. If you’ve just changed your Chrysler key fob battery and find it’s no longer working, you’re not alone. This article will guide you through troubleshooting steps and explain how to reprogram your key fob, ensuring you regain access and control of your vehicle quickly.
Common Issues After Chrysler Key Fob Battery Replacement
Many Chrysler owners experience problems immediately after replacing their key fob battery. These issues can range from a completely unresponsive key fob to intermittent or reduced functionality. Understanding these common problems is the first step in finding a solution.
Key Fob Not Responding At All
The most frustrating issue is when your Chrysler key fob stops working entirely after a battery replacement. You might press the lock, unlock, or panic buttons, but your car doesn’t respond. This could stem from a few reasons, including incorrect battery installation or the need for reprogramming.
Key Fob Range Reduced
In some cases, the key fob might still work, but only when you’re very close to the vehicle. This reduced range can be inconvenient and suggests that while the battery replacement provided power, the key fob’s signal transmission might be weakened or needs recalibration.
Need for Reprogramming After Battery Change
A common misconception is that simply replacing the battery should restore your key fob to full functionality. However, certain Chrysler models may require reprogramming after a battery change. This is because the key fob and the car’s receiver need to re-establish their communication link.
Step-by-Step Guide to Chrysler Key Fob Battery Replacement
Before diving into troubleshooting and reprogramming, let’s ensure the battery replacement was done correctly. Most Chrysler key fobs use CR2016 batteries.
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Identify the Battery Type: Confirm your Chrysler key fob uses CR2016 3V batteries. Refer to your owner’s manual or check the old battery for the correct type. Some fobs may use two batteries.
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Open the Key Fob Casing: Carefully open your key fob. This usually involves a small screw or a release latch. Use a small screwdriver or a similar tool to gently pry open the casing.
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Remove the Old Battery: Take out the old battery, noting the polarity (+ and -) orientation.
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Insert the New Battery: Install the new CR2016 battery (or batteries) in the correct orientation, matching the polarity you noted earlier. Ensure the battery is securely placed in its compartment.
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Close the Key Fob Casing: Carefully reassemble the key fob casing, ensuring it’s properly closed and secured.
Chrysler key fob internal components and battery location
Correctly placing the CR2016 battery inside a Chrysler key fob is crucial for proper function after replacement.
DIY Chrysler Key Fob Programming Methods
If your Chrysler key fob is still not working after a battery replacement, you might need to reprogram it. Depending on your Chrysler model and if you have a working Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC), you have a couple of DIY programming options.
Using the EVIC to Program Your Chrysler Key Fob
For Chrysler vehicles equipped with an EVIC (usually found in models like the 300M), you can attempt to reprogram your key fob without needing a working remote. Here’s how:
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Enter the Programming Menu: Turn your ignition to the “ON” position (without starting the engine). Navigate through your EVIC menu using the steering wheel controls until you find the “Program Remote” or “Train Remote” option.
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Initiate Training Mode: Select “YES” to train a remote. The EVIC should display a message like “PRESS REMOTE LOCK & UNLOCK THEN PRESS UNLOCK” and you should hear a chime, indicating the system is ready for programming.
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Press Key Fob Buttons: Simultaneously press and hold the “Lock” and “Unlock” buttons on your key fob for a second or two, then release and immediately press and hold the “Unlock” button for another second.
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Confirmation Chime: If the programming is successful, you should hear another chime. This indicates that your Chrysler key fob has been successfully reprogrammed.
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Test Your Key Fob: Turn the ignition off and test all the buttons on your key fob to ensure they are working correctly.
Note: The exact wording in the EVIC menu might vary slightly depending on your Chrysler model year. Refer to your owner’s manual for precise instructions.
Programming Additional Chrysler Key Fobs with a Working Remote
If you have an existing working key fob, you can use it to program additional remotes. This method might not be applicable if your only key fob stopped working after a battery change, but it’s useful if you have a spare.
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Turn Ignition ON: Turn your Chrysler’s ignition to the “ON” position using the working key fob.
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Press and Hold Unlock: Press and hold the “Unlock” button on the working key fob for 4 to 10 seconds.
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Press Panic Button: While still holding the “Unlock” button, press and release the “Panic” button. Release both buttons. You should hear a chime.
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Program New Key Fob: Within 3 seconds of the chime, press and release both the “Lock” and “Unlock” buttons simultaneously on the new key fob you want to program. Then, press any button on the new key fob. You should hear another chime, confirming successful programming.
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Test the New Key Fob: Turn off the ignition and test the newly programmed key fob.
When Professional Help is Needed
While DIY programming methods are helpful, there are situations where you might need to seek professional assistance.
If DIY Programming Fails
If you’ve tried the EVIC and working remote programming methods and your Chrysler key fob still isn’t functioning, there might be a more complex issue. This could involve problems with the key fob itself or your car’s receiver module.
No EVIC Option
Not all Chrysler models are equipped with EVIC or support DIY programming. In such cases, you’ll likely need professional programming services.
Lost All Key Fobs or Initial Programming
If you’ve lost all your key fobs or are programming a key fob for the first time (not just after battery replacement), dealership programming is generally required. Dealerships have specialized equipment to program key fobs directly to your vehicle’s system.
Tips to Prevent Key Fob Issues After Battery Replacement
To minimize the chances of key fob problems after battery replacement, consider these tips:
Replace Battery Quickly
Some forum users suggest replacing the battery within a short timeframe (e.g., 15 seconds) to potentially avoid memory loss in the key fob. While not always guaranteed, quick battery replacement might help in some cases.
Use the Correct Battery Type
Always use the recommended battery type (usually CR2016) and ensure it’s a fresh, high-quality battery for optimal performance.
Check Battery Polarity
Double-check the battery polarity (+ and -) when installing the new battery. Incorrect polarity can prevent the key fob from working.
Conclusion
Replacing your Chrysler key fob battery should be a simple maintenance task. However, if you encounter issues afterward, understanding the troubleshooting steps and programming methods can save you time and money. Try the DIY programming options first, especially if you have EVIC. If these methods fail, or if you face more complex situations, don’t hesitate to consult a qualified mechanic or your Chrysler dealership for professional key fob programming services. Keeping your key fob functional ensures convenient access and security for your Chrysler vehicle.
