Is your 2012 Lincoln MKX key fob acting up? Perhaps it’s not unlocking your doors as reliably as it used to, or maybe the range has diminished. A common culprit for these issues is a low or dead battery in your key fob. Fortunately, replacing the battery in your 2012 Lincoln MKX key fob is a straightforward task you can easily handle yourself, saving you time and a trip to the dealership.
Understanding the type of battery your key fob uses is the first step. For the 2012 Lincoln MKX key fob, you’ll typically need a CR2025 battery. This is a widely available and inexpensive button cell battery. Knowing this beforehand means you can quickly acquire a replacement battery and get your key fob back in top shape.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to replacing the battery in your 2012 Lincoln MKX key fob:
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Gather Your Tools: You’ll need a small flathead screwdriver or a similar tool to gently pry open the key fob. You’ll also need a new CR2025 battery.
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Open the Key Fob: Locate the small notch on the side of your key fob. Using your flathead screwdriver, carefully insert it into the notch and gently twist to separate the two halves of the key fob. Be patient and avoid using excessive force to prevent damage to the casing.
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Remove the Old Battery: Once the key fob is open, you’ll see the battery. Take note of the battery’s orientation (positive side up or down) before removing it. You can usually gently pry the old battery out with your fingertip or the edge of your screwdriver.
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Insert the New Battery: Take your new CR2025 battery and insert it into the battery compartment, ensuring it’s in the correct orientation as the old battery was. It should snap into place securely.
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Close the Key Fob: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob and press them firmly together until they snap back into place. Ensure there are no gaps and the fob is securely closed.
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Test Your Key Fob: Try using your key fob to lock and unlock your 2012 Lincoln MKX and test other functions like remote start or panic button to ensure the new battery is working correctly.
Alt text: Opening a 2012 Lincoln MKX key fob to access the battery compartment for replacement.
Tips for Battery Longevity:
While CR2025 batteries are known for their decent lifespan, several factors can affect how long they last in your key fob. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can drain battery life faster. To maximize the life of your key fob battery, avoid leaving your key fob in direct sunlight or extremely cold environments for prolonged periods.
It’s also a good idea to keep a spare CR2025 battery in your glove compartment or somewhere easily accessible in your vehicle. This way, you’ll be prepared if your key fob battery dies unexpectedly while you’re on the go.
Real-World Example:
Interestingly, even relatively new Lincoln MKX vehicles can experience key fob battery issues. One owner of a 2017 MKX reported one key fob battery dying completely within a few months of very little use, while another intermittently used fob showed signs of battery drain after a similar timeframe. This highlights that even with newer vehicles, key fob battery replacement can become necessary sooner than expected. Checking your battery voltage can give you an idea of its remaining life. A fresh CR2025 battery typically measures around 3.3V, while a voltage around 2.9V or lower may indicate that replacement is imminent.
Replacing the battery in your 2012 Lincoln MKX key fob is a simple and cost-effective maintenance task. By following these steps, you can ensure your key fob remains reliable and functional, providing you with convenient access and control over your vehicle.
