Is your 2016 Chrysler 300 key fob refusing to cooperate? A dead key fob battery is a common culprit, leaving you locked out or unable to start your vehicle remotely. Fortunately, replacing the battery in your Chrysler 300 key fob is a straightforward process you can easily handle yourself. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you get your key fob back in working order quickly and efficiently.
Identifying the Right Battery for Your 2016 Chrysler 300 Key Fob
Before you begin, it’s crucial to have the correct replacement battery. The 2016 Chrysler 300 key fob typically uses a CR2032 3V lithium coin battery. This battery type is widely available at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers. To be absolutely certain, you can check your owner’s manual or, once you open the key fob, examine the markings on the old battery. Using the correct battery type ensures optimal performance and longevity for your key fob.
Step-by-Step Guide to 2016 Chrysler 300 Key Fob Battery Replacement
Replacing the battery is a simple process that requires minimal tools and time. Follow these steps to get your key fob powered up again:
Tools You’ll Need
- A new CR2032 battery
- A small flathead screwdriver or a similar thin tool (like a butter knife or a guitar pick)
- A soft cloth to protect surfaces (optional)
Opening the Key Fob
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Locate the Release Latch: On the back of your 2016 Chrysler 300 key fob, you’ll find a small release latch or button.
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Release the Emergency Key: Press and hold the release latch while simultaneously pulling out the emergency key. Set the emergency key aside in a safe place.
Chrysler key fob image -
Separate the Fob Casings: With the emergency key removed, you’ll see a small slot where the key was located. This is where you’ll insert your flathead screwdriver or thin tool.
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Gently Pry Open: Carefully insert the flathead screwdriver into the slot and gently twist. This should begin to separate the two halves of the key fob casing. You may need to work your way around the seam, gently prying at different points until the case splits open. Avoid using excessive force, as you could damage the plastic casing. The soft cloth can be used to protect the key fob from scratches during this step.
Replacing the Battery
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Identify Battery Location: Once the key fob is open, you’ll see the battery compartment. The CR2032 battery will be visible, usually held in place by small clips.
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Remove the Old Battery: Take note of the battery’s orientation (+ side up or down). Use your fingertip or the tip of the flathead screwdriver to gently pry the old battery out of its compartment.
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Insert the New Battery: Place the new CR2032 battery into the compartment, ensuring the polarity (+ and – sides) matches the orientation of the old battery. Push down gently until the battery is securely in place.
Closing the Key Fob
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Align the Casings: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing, ensuring they are correctly oriented.
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Snap the Casing Closed: Press the two halves of the casing firmly together until they snap securely shut. You should hear a click as the case closes completely.
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Reinsert Emergency Key: Slide the emergency key back into its slot until it clicks into place.
Testing Your Key Fob
After replacing the battery and reassembling your key fob, test all the buttons – lock, unlock, panic, and remote start (if applicable). Your 2016 Chrysler 300 key fob should now be working correctly.
Troubleshooting: My 2016 Chrysler 300 Key Fob Still Doesn’t Work!
In most cases, replacing the battery will resolve key fob issues. However, if your 2016 Chrysler 300 key fob still isn’t functioning after a battery replacement, consider these troubleshooting steps:
Check Battery Polarity and Voltage
- Incorrect Polarity: Double-check that you inserted the new CR2032 battery with the correct polarity (+ side up). Incorrect polarity can prevent the key fob from working.
- Battery Voltage: Although new, it’s possible the replacement battery is faulty or has low voltage. Use a multimeter to test the voltage of the new battery. It should read close to 3V.
Key Fob Reprogramming (Potentially Unnecessary for Battery Change)
For a 2016 Chrysler 300, simply replacing the key fob battery should not require reprogramming. Key fob memory is typically non-volatile, meaning it retains its programming even when the battery is removed. However, in rare cases or with older models, battery changes could potentially lead to a loss of synchronization.
If you suspect a programming issue (and have verified battery and polarity), consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions on key fob reprogramming for your 2016 Chrysler 300. Some models may allow for DIY reprogramming through the vehicle’s Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) or instrument cluster menus.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’ve tried these troubleshooting steps and your 2016 Chrysler 300 key fob remains unresponsive, there might be a more complex issue, such as:
- Key Fob Damage: Internal components of the key fob could be damaged.
- Vehicle Receiver Issue: The receiver in your Chrysler 300 that communicates with the key fob might be malfunctioning.
In these situations, it’s best to seek professional help. Contact a certified Chrysler dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith. They have specialized tools and diagnostic equipment to diagnose and resolve more complex key fob and remote entry problems. They can also program a new key fob if necessary.
Conclusion
Replacing the battery in your 2016 Chrysler 300 key fob is usually a quick and easy fix for common key fob problems. By following this guide, you can confidently restore your key fob’s functionality and regain convenient access to your vehicle. For more advanced key fob repairs, programming services, or if you need a replacement key fob, visit keyfobprog.com – your trusted source for automotive key solutions.
