Dealing with a finicky key fob for your 2008 PT Cruiser can be more complex than you might think, especially when considering aftermarket replacements. Many car owners find themselves puzzled by battery issues, signal strength, and compatibility, particularly when comparing original equipment manufacturer (OEM) fobs to aftermarket options. Let’s delve into a common problem encountered with a replacement key fob and explore why sticking with OEM might save you headaches.
One car owner’s experience highlights a critical issue with an aftermarket key fob designed for a 2008 PT Cruiser. The aftermarket fob in question featured a “closed” battery compartment intended for a single CR2032 battery. This design immediately presents a problem: it eliminates the possibility of using two batteries, a configuration sometimes considered for enhanced signal strength. Interestingly, the seller had indeed installed a CR2032 battery, which is slightly thicker and possesses a marginally higher amp strength compared to a CR2016. However, the compartment’s height wasn’t sufficient to accommodate two CR2016 batteries, creating a limitation right from the start.
To understand the core issue, it’s important to recognize the differences between CR2016 and CR2032 batteries. The primary distinction lies in their capacity. A CR2032 battery offers roughly double the capacity of a CR2016, meaning it should theoretically last longer before needing replacement. Both are 3-volt lithium-ion batteries, but they are not directly interchangeable due to their varying thicknesses. Looking at battery specifications, a CR2016 typically has a capacity of 75-90 mAh, while a CR2032 boasts 210-230 mAh. While a single CR2032 offers higher capacity, the question arose whether two CR2016 batteries could potentially provide a stronger signal due to a combined higher current output, even if this isn’t directly supported by battery capacity (mAh) ratings which indicate battery life, not instantaneous current delivery.
Despite the theoretical longer life of a CR2032, the experience with the aftermarket 2008 Pt Cruiser Key Fob suggested a different outcome. The user theorized that using two CR2016 batteries might yield a stronger signal compared to a single CR2032. This theory stemmed from the observation that even the single-battery aftermarket fob was transmitting a signal, implying that battery configuration could influence signal strength.
Ultimately, the user in this scenario opted to return the problematic aftermarket fob and ordered a used OEM (original equipment manufacturer) key fob for their 2008 PT Cruiser. This decision underscores a crucial point: while aftermarket options might seem appealing, especially due to price, OEM key fobs are often engineered to specific vehicle requirements, ensuring proper functionality and reliability. When it comes to your 2008 PT Cruiser key fob, investing in an OEM replacement could save you from potential battery compatibility issues and signal strength frustrations in the long run.
