Ever find yourself wrestling with your car’s key fob, wondering why it’s not unlocking your doors from the usual distance? For owners of the 2002 PT Cruiser, key fob issues can be a common, yet sometimes perplexing problem. The quest to maintain a reliable keyless entry often leads to battery replacements, but what if the solution isn’t as straightforward as swapping out a dead battery? Let’s dive into the specifics of the 2002 Pt Cruiser Key Fob, focusing on a critical aspect: battery type and its impact on signal strength.
The Battery Puzzle: CR2016 vs. CR2032
When it comes to aftermarket key fobs for the 2002 PT Cruiser, you might encounter some design variations compared to the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) versions. One notable difference lies in the battery compartment. Aftermarket fobs often feature a “closed” frame battery area, seemingly designed for a single battery. This is where the confusion often starts, especially when you find different battery types recommended or even pre-installed.
You might find a CR2032 battery in your aftermarket fob, as was the case in a recent experience. The CR2032 is slightly thicker and boasts a bit more capacity than the CR2016. However, the physical constraints of some aftermarket fobs mean there isn’t enough space to house two CR2016 batteries, even though the original design might have intended for a different configuration.
To understand this better, let’s look at the technical differences. Both CR2016 and CR2032 batteries are 3-volt lithium coin cells, but their dimensions and capacities vary. The CR2032 is thicker than the CR2016, leading to its higher capacity, approximately double that of the CR2016. While both can power devices, their physical dimensions dictate interchangeability. They aren’t truly interchangeable due to these thickness differences, even though they share the same diameter and voltage output.
Signal Strength: Two CR2016s vs. One CR2032
This leads to an interesting theory regarding signal strength. The original exploration into aftermarket fobs for the 2002 PT Cruiser raised a question: could using two CR2016 batteries potentially offer a stronger signal compared to a single CR2032?
While a CR2032 battery offers higher capacity for longer life, in the context of key fob signal strength, the combined output of two CR2016 batteries might be a factor to consider. Battery specifications highlight that while a single CR2032 has a higher mAh (milliamp-hour) rating, indicating longer battery life, two CR2016 batteries could theoretically provide a different power delivery profile.
Battery capacity, measured in mAh, relates to how long a battery can sustain a certain current draw. However, signal strength in a key fob might be influenced by the instantaneous power available during signal transmission. Although a definitive scientific study would be needed to confirm, anecdotal evidence and the design choices in some OEM fobs suggest that the power delivery characteristics of battery configurations could impact the effective range and reliability of the key fob signal.
Even with a single CR2032 in an aftermarket fob, a signal is still transmitted, as confirmed by battery specialists. However, the question remains whether this signal is as strong and consistent as intended by the original 2002 PT Cruiser key fob design.
OEM vs. Aftermarket: Making the Right Choice for Your 2002 PT Cruiser Key Fob
Ultimately, when it comes to your 2002 PT Cruiser key fob, reliability and consistent performance are key. The experience with the aftermarket fob highlights potential compromises in design, particularly concerning battery configuration and its possible impact on signal strength.
While aftermarket options might seem like a cost-effective solution, issues like battery compatibility and potentially weaker signal strength can lead to frustration. Opting for a used OEM key fob might be a more reliable approach. OEM fobs are designed to meet the original vehicle specifications, ensuring proper battery fitment and intended signal performance.
In conclusion, when troubleshooting or replacing your 2002 PT Cruiser key fob, consider the battery type and the potential differences between OEM and aftermarket options. For optimal performance and signal reliability, especially for critical functions like remote locking and unlocking, investing in an OEM key fob could be the most effective long-term solution.
