Experiencing issues with your 2004 Pt Cruiser Key Fob? It’s a common frustration for many owners. Often, the culprit is the key fob battery. But when you go to replace it, you might find yourself facing a confusing situation, especially if you’ve opted for an aftermarket key fob. One of the most debated topics is whether to use a CR2016 or a CR2032 battery, and if the type of battery impacts your key fob’s signal strength. Let’s dive into the specifics of the 2004 PT Cruiser key fob battery and clear up some of the confusion.
When it comes to powering your key fob, understanding the nuances of batteries like the CR2016 and CR2032 is essential. The original post highlights a real-world scenario involving an aftermarket key fob for a 2004 PT Cruiser that came with a CR2032 battery. The issue? The user suspected that this single CR2032 battery might not be as effective as the original setup, which typically uses two CR2016 batteries.
Let’s break down the key differences between these two battery types. Both the CR2016 and CR2032 are 3-volt lithium coin cell batteries, but they differ significantly in their physical dimensions and capacity. The “2016” and “2032” designations actually refer to their thickness: a CR2016 battery is 1.6mm thick, while a CR2032 is 3.2mm thick. They share the same 20mm diameter.
The primary difference in performance lies in their capacity, measured in mAh (milliampere-hours). Capacity essentially dictates how long the battery will last before needing replacement. A CR2032 battery boasts roughly double the capacity of a CR2016. This is why you might see a CR2032 suggested as a longer-lasting alternative.
However, the original article touches on a crucial point: compatibility and signal strength. While a CR2032 might offer more capacity, it’s not always the ideal or intended battery for every device, including your 2004 PT Cruiser key fob. The aftermarket fob in question was designed to house only one battery, and while it could fit a CR2032, it wasn’t designed for the standard two CR2016 configuration.
The user’s experience suggests a potential issue with signal strength when using a single CR2032 in an aftermarket fob designed for a 2004 PT Cruiser. The theory proposed is that two CR2016 batteries might collectively provide a stronger signal than a single CR2032, even though the CR2032 has a higher individual capacity.
It’s important to note that voltage is consistent between CR2016 and CR2032 batteries – both are 3V. The difference in signal strength, if any, is less likely due to voltage and more likely related to the overall power delivery characteristics in the specific key fob circuit design, or even the battery contact points within the aftermarket fob.
For your 2004 PT Cruiser key fob, the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) likely designed it to operate optimally with two CR2016 batteries. Switching to an aftermarket fob that only uses one CR2032 might introduce unexpected issues, including reduced signal range or reliability.
Ultimately, the user in the original post decided to return the aftermarket fob and opt for a used OEM fob. This decision highlights a valuable lesson: when it comes to car parts, especially sensitive electronics like key fobs, sticking with OEM or high-quality, reputable brands is often the best approach. While aftermarket options can be tempting due to lower prices, they may compromise on performance or compatibility.
If you are facing key fob issues with your 2004 PT Cruiser, and you’re considering battery replacement or a new key fob, remember these key takeaways:
- Battery Compatibility: Understand the original battery specification for your 2004 PT Cruiser key fob. OEM typically uses two CR2016 batteries.
- Aftermarket Fobs: Be cautious with aftermarket key fobs, especially if they deviate from the original battery configuration.
- Signal Strength: If you experience weak signal range, battery type and fob design could be contributing factors.
- OEM Recommendation: For best reliability and performance, consider using an OEM key fob and the recommended CR2016 batteries for your 2004 PT Cruiser.
While a CR2032 battery has a higher capacity, in the specific case of a 2004 PT Cruiser key fob, particularly with aftermarket units, it may not be the optimal choice. Prioritize compatibility and consider sticking with the battery type and configuration that your vehicle was originally designed for to ensure reliable key fob performance.
