Is your 2009 Chrysler 300 key fob acting up? Weak signals or inconsistent performance can often be traced back to a dying battery. Replacing your key fob battery is a straightforward task you can easily handle at home, saving you time and money compared to dealership service. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of the 2009 Chrysler 300 Key Fob Battery Replacement process, ensuring you get your remote working like new again.
Identifying Your 2009 Chrysler 300 Key Fob
Before we dive in, let’s make sure we’re on the same page regarding your key fob. The 2009 Chrysler 300 typically uses a standard key fob design. It’s a rectangular remote with the Chrysler logo and buttons for lock, unlock, panic, and potentially remote start. Knowing your key fob type helps ensure you use the correct battery and follow the right steps for battery replacement.
What Battery Does Your 2009 Chrysler 300 Key Fob Need?
Your 2009 Chrysler 300 key fob typically requires a CR2032 battery. This is a common 3V lithium coin cell battery that’s readily available at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers. It’s always a good idea to double-check your owner’s manual for the exact battery specification, but CR2032 is the standard for this model year. Having the correct battery type is crucial for optimal key fob performance and longevity.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your 2009 Chrysler 300 Key Fob Battery
Replacing the battery in your 2009 Chrysler 300 key fob is a simple process. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide:
Tools Needed:
- A new CR2032 battery
- A small flathead screwdriver or a similar thin tool (like a credit card or plastic pry tool)
- A soft cloth (optional, to protect the key fob surface)
Opening the Key Fob:
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Locate the Notch: On the back or side of your 2009 Chrysler 300 key fob, you’ll find a small notch or indentation. This is where you’ll insert your flathead screwdriver or prying tool.
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Carefully Pry Open: Gently insert the flathead screwdriver into the notch. Twist the screwdriver carefully to separate the two halves of the key fob. If you’re using a plastic pry tool or credit card, insert it into the notch and slide it along the seam to split the case. Be patient and avoid using excessive force to prevent damage to the key fob casing. You might hear a click as the case begins to separate.
Prying open a key fob -
Separate the Halves: Once you’ve created a gap, carefully pull the two halves of the key fob apart. Set the top half aside, exposing the battery compartment.
Replacing the Battery:
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Identify Battery Orientation: Take note of how the old battery is positioned in the compartment. Usually, the positive (+) side faces upwards. This is important for installing the new battery correctly.
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Remove the Old Battery: Gently pry out the old CR2032 battery. You can use your fingertip or the flathead screwdriver to carefully lift it out.
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Insert the New Battery: Place the new CR2032 battery into the compartment, ensuring the positive (+) side is facing the correct direction (usually upwards). Press down gently to secure it in place.
Closing the Key Fob:
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Align the Halves: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob case back together.
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Snap Back Together: Press firmly until the two halves snap securely back into place. You should hear a click, indicating that the case is properly closed. Ensure there are no gaps along the seam.
Testing Your Key Fob
After replacing the battery, test your 2009 Chrysler 300 key fob by pressing the lock and unlock buttons. The car doors should lock and unlock accordingly, and the panic button should activate the alarm. If your key fob is working correctly, you’ve successfully completed the battery replacement!
Reprogramming Your 2009 Chrysler 300 Key Fob (If Necessary)
In most cases, replacing the battery in your 2009 Chrysler 300 key fob will not require reprogramming. The key fob memory is generally non-volatile, meaning it should retain its programming even when the battery is removed.
However, if your key fob still doesn’t work after a battery replacement, or if you experience issues like the system not recognizing the remote, you might need to reprogram it.
In-Vehicle Programming (EVIC Method – if equipped)
Some 2009 Chrysler 300 models are equipped with an Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) that allows for key fob programming. Refer to your owner’s manual to see if your vehicle has this feature and for specific instructions. The process generally involves using the vehicle’s menu system to enter programming mode and then pressing buttons on the key fob to synchronize it with the car.
While specific steps can vary, a common method involves:
- Turn the ignition to the “ON” position (without starting the engine).
- Navigate through the EVIC menu using the steering wheel controls until you find the “Vehicle Settings” or “Personal Settings” menu.
- Look for options like “Remote Key Programming” or “Train Remote.”
- Select “YES” to enter programming mode. The EVIC may display instructions like “PRESS REMOTE LOCK & UNLOCK THEN PRESS UNLOCK.”
- Follow the on-screen prompts, typically involving pressing and holding the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob simultaneously, followed by pressing the unlock button again.
- The vehicle should chime to indicate successful programming.
Dealership Programming
If your 2009 Chrysler 300 doesn’t have EVIC programming capabilities, or if the in-vehicle programming method doesn’t work, you may need to visit a Chrysler dealership for professional programming. Dealerships have specialized tools to reprogram key fobs. While this option is more costly than DIY battery replacement, it ensures your key fob is correctly programmed to your vehicle.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you encounter issues after replacing your 2009 Chrysler 300 key fob battery, consider these troubleshooting tips:
- Check Battery Polarity: Double-check that you inserted the new CR2032 battery with the correct polarity (+ side up).
- New Battery Voltage: Ensure the new battery is actually new and has a proper charge. You can test the voltage with a multimeter if you have one.
- Clean Battery Contacts: Inspect the metal contacts in the key fob for any dirt, corrosion, or debris. Clean them gently with a cotton swab or a soft cloth if necessary.
- Reseat Battery: Remove and re-insert the battery to ensure good contact.
- Try Reprogramming: If the key fob still doesn’t work, attempt the EVIC programming method (if applicable) or consider professional dealership programming.
Conclusion
Replacing the battery in your 2009 Chrysler 300 key fob is an easy and cost-effective way to resolve common remote issues. By following these steps, you can restore your key fob’s functionality and avoid unnecessary dealership visits. For more car key fob solutions and expert advice, visit keyfobprog.com.
