Is your 2006 Chrysler 300 key fob starting to feel a little unresponsive? Maybe you have to press the buttons harder, or get closer to your vehicle for it to work. These are classic signs that your key fob battery is dying. Fortunately, replacing the battery in your 2006 Chrysler 300 key fob is a straightforward task you can easily handle yourself, saving you time and money compared to a dealership visit. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step and also troubleshoot common issues you might encounter after a battery replacement.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your 2006 Chrysler 300 Key Fob Battery
Replacing the battery in your Chrysler 300 key fob is a simple process that requires minimal tools. Here’s what you’ll need and how to do it:
What You’ll Need:
- A new CR2016 battery (You’ll need two for the 2006 Chrysler 300 key fob)
- A small flathead screwdriver or a similar thin tool (like a butter knife or guitar pick)
- A soft cloth to protect the key fob
Steps:
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Locate the Notch: On the back of your Chrysler 300 key fob, you’ll find a small notch or indentation. This is where you’ll insert your flathead screwdriver to open the fob.
Chrysler 300 key fob -
Carefully Pry Open the Fob: Gently insert the tip of your flathead screwdriver into the notch. Twist the screwdriver carefully to pry the two halves of the key fob apart. Be patient and avoid using excessive force, as you don’t want to damage the plastic casing. Using a soft cloth around the screwdriver can help prevent scratches.
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Access the Battery Compartment: Once the key fob is open, you’ll see the circuit board and the battery compartment. Take note of the battery orientation before removing the old ones. The 2006 Chrysler 300 key fob uses two CR2016 batteries stacked on top of each other.
Alt text: Inside view of a Chrysler key fob battery compartment showing two CR2016 batteries ready for replacement.
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Remove the Old Batteries: Carefully remove the old CR2016 batteries. You might be able to gently pry them out with your fingertip or the edge of the screwdriver.
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Install the New Batteries: Insert the new CR2016 batteries into the battery compartment, ensuring they are placed in the correct orientation. Important: The positive (+) side of both batteries should be facing upwards. Stack the second battery directly on top of the first one.
Alt text: Correct installation of new CR2016 batteries in a car key fob, emphasizing proper polarity.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob back together until they are securely closed. You should hear a click when they are properly aligned.
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Test Your Key Fob: Test all the buttons on your key fob – lock, unlock, panic, and trunk release – to ensure they are working correctly. Your 2006 Chrysler 300 should respond as expected.
Troubleshooting: Key Fob Not Working After Battery Replacement
In most cases, replacing the battery will immediately restore your key fob’s functionality. However, sometimes you might encounter issues after replacing the battery. Here’s how to troubleshoot:
1. Double-Check Battery Installation:
- Correct Battery Type: Ensure you are using CR2016 batteries. Using the wrong type can lead to malfunction.
- Proper Polarity: Verify that the batteries are installed with the positive (+) side facing upwards. Incorrect polarity will prevent the key fob from working.
- Battery Contact: Make sure the batteries are making good contact with the terminals in the battery compartment. Sometimes, slightly adjusting their position can help.
2. Key Fob Reprogramming (EVIC Method):
If your key fob still doesn’t work after verifying the battery installation, it might need to be reprogrammed to your 2006 Chrysler 300. Many Chrysler 300 models from this era are equipped with an Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) that allows for DIY key fob programming. Here’s how to try reprogramming using the EVIC:
- Turn Ignition to ON: Insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the “ON” position, but do not start the engine.
- Navigate to EVIC Menu: Use the buttons on your steering wheel to navigate through the EVIC menu until you find the “Program Remote” or “Train Remote” option. The exact menu names might slightly vary depending on your specific model year and trim. Refer to your owner’s manual for precise instructions on accessing the EVIC menu.
- Initiate Programming Sequence: Select “YES” to train the remote. The EVIC will display a prompt, usually something like “PRESS REMOTE LOCK & UNLOCK THEN PRESS UNLOCK”.
- Press Key Fob Buttons: On your key fob, press and hold the “Lock” and “Unlock” buttons simultaneously for a few seconds, and then release. Immediately after, press and release the “Unlock” button again.
- Listen for Chime: The vehicle should chime to indicate that the programming sequence has commenced and then chime again to confirm successful programming.
- Test the Key Fob: Test all buttons on your key fob to confirm it is now working correctly.
- Repeat for Additional Fobs: If you have multiple key fobs, you can repeat this process to program them as well, usually within a 30-second window after initiating the programming sequence.
3. Dealership Visit (If EVIC Programming Fails):
If the EVIC programming method doesn’t work, or if your 2006 Chrysler 300 is not equipped with EVIC remote programming, you may need to visit a Chrysler dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith. They have specialized tools to reprogram your key fob to your vehicle. This is typically necessary if the key fob’s memory was somehow erased or corrupted during the battery replacement process, or if there are underlying issues with your vehicle’s receiver module.
4. Consider a Second Key Fob:
As mentioned in the original forum discussion, it’s always a good idea to have a spare key fob. If you only have one key fob and it’s malfunctioning, consider getting a second one programmed at the dealership or locksmith while you are there. This provides a backup in case of future issues and can be more convenient in the long run.
Preventing Future Key Fob Battery Issues
While key fob battery replacement is a normal part of car ownership, here are a few tips to prolong battery life and prevent unexpected issues:
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Extreme heat or cold can shorten battery life. Try to avoid leaving your key fob in direct sunlight or freezing temperatures for extended periods.
- Minimize Button Presses: Avoid accidentally pressing buttons when the key fob is in your pocket or bag. Unnecessary button presses drain the battery.
- Regular Battery Checks: Pay attention to the responsiveness of your key fob. If you notice it becoming less sensitive, replace the battery proactively before it completely dies.
Conclusion
Replacing the battery in your 2006 Chrysler 300 key fob is a simple DIY task that can save you from the inconvenience of a non-working remote and the expense of dealership service for a basic battery change. By following these steps and troubleshooting tips, you can ensure your key fob is functioning perfectly, keeping you securely connected to your vehicle. Remember to always use the correct CR2016 batteries and double-check the installation for optimal performance.
