Is your 2011 Infiniti G37 key fob not working as reliably as it used to? Perhaps you need to be closer to your vehicle for it to unlock, or maybe the range has decreased significantly. A common culprit for these issues is a low or dead key fob battery. Replacing the battery in your Infiniti G37 key fob is a simple and inexpensive task you can easily do yourself, saving you time and money compared to visiting a dealership. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about your 2011 G37 Key Fob Battery, including how to identify the type, how to replace it, and troubleshooting common problems.
Understanding Your 2011 Infiniti G37 Key Fob Battery
The 2011 Infiniti G37 uses a smart key system for keyless entry and ignition. This system relies on a battery-powered key fob to communicate with your vehicle. The key fob for your 2011 G37 is designed to be both convenient and secure, offering features like remote locking/unlocking, trunk release, and a panic alarm. Powering these features is a small, replaceable battery inside the fob.
Battery Type
The battery used in the 2011 Infiniti G37 key fob is a CR2032 3V lithium coin cell battery. This is a widely available and inexpensive battery type that you can purchase at most drugstores, supermarkets, electronics stores, and online retailers. It’s always a good idea to keep a spare CR2032 battery at home so you’re prepared when it’s time for a replacement.
Symptoms of a Low Key Fob Battery
Knowing the signs of a weakening key fob battery can help you replace it before it completely dies and leaves you stranded. Here are some common symptoms to watch out for:
- Reduced Range: You need to be much closer to your car than usual for the remote to work.
- Intermittent Functionality: The buttons on your key fob work sometimes, but not always.
- Weak Signal Indicator: Some vehicles display a warning message on the dashboard indicating a low key fob battery. While the G37 may not have a specific indicator, decreased performance is a key sign.
- Unresponsive Buttons: You press a button on the fob, but nothing happens.
If you experience any of these symptoms, replacing your key fob battery should be your first step in troubleshooting.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your 2011 G37 Key Fob Battery
Replacing the battery in your 2011 Infiniti G37 key fob is a straightforward process that requires no special tools. Follow these simple steps:
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Locate the Emergency Key: Your Infiniti G37 key fob includes a mechanical emergency key that slides out. Find the small release button or latch on your key fob. Press and hold it while pulling out the emergency key. Set the emergency key aside in a safe place.
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Open the Key Fob Casing: Once the emergency key is removed, you’ll notice a slot or small indentation where the key was located. This is where you will gently pry open the key fob. You can use the emergency key itself, or a small flathead screwdriver if you prefer, being very careful not to scratch the plastic casing. Insert the tip of the emergency key or screwdriver into the slot and gently twist to separate the two halves of the key fob.
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Identify the Battery: With the key fob open, you will see the CR2032 battery. It is usually held in place by small metal clips. Take note of the battery’s orientation (+ side up or down) before removing it. This will ensure you install the new battery correctly.
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Remove the Old Battery: Gently pry the old CR2032 battery out of its housing. You can use your fingertip or the tip of a small screwdriver to carefully lift it out.
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Install the New Battery: Take your new CR2032 battery and install it in the same orientation as the old one. Make sure the + side is facing the correct direction, as indicated by the markings in the battery compartment (usually a + sign). Press down firmly to ensure the battery is securely seated in the metal clips.
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Close the Key Fob Casing: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly back together until they snap securely closed. Ensure there are no gaps and the casing is properly sealed.
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Reinsert the Emergency Key: Slide the emergency key back into the key fob until it clicks into place.
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Test Your Key Fob: Test all the buttons on your key fob – lock, unlock, trunk release, and panic alarm – to ensure they are working correctly. You should notice an immediate improvement in the range and responsiveness of your key fob.
Troubleshooting and Important Notes
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Programming is NOT Usually Required for Battery Change: Replacing the battery in your 2011 Infiniti G37 key fob does not typically require reprogramming. The key fob should work immediately after battery replacement. Programming is only necessary when you are replacing the entire key fob unit, not just the battery.
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If Your Key Fob Still Doesn’t Work: If you’ve replaced the battery and your key fob still isn’t working, there might be another issue. Consider these possibilities:
- Incorrect Battery Installation: Double-check that you installed the new battery in the correct orientation (+ side up or down).
- Dirty Battery Contacts: Inspect the metal contacts in the battery compartment for any dirt or corrosion. Clean them gently with a cotton swab and a bit of rubbing alcohol if necessary.
- Key Fob Damage: If your key fob has been dropped or damaged, internal components might be broken. In this case, you may need to purchase a replacement key fob.
- Vehicle Issues: In rare cases, the problem might be with your vehicle’s receiver system. If you suspect this, consult with an Infiniti dealer or a qualified automotive technician.
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Emergency Key: Always know the location of your emergency key and how to use it. In the event of a dead key fob battery or other key fob malfunction, the emergency key will allow you to manually unlock your car door.
Conclusion
Replacing the battery in your 2011 Infiniti G37 key fob is a simple DIY task that can resolve common key fob issues and save you from unnecessary dealership visits. By following this guide, you can easily keep your key fob working reliably and ensure you always have convenient access to your vehicle. Remember to use the correct CR2032 battery and to double-check the installation if you encounter any problems. Keeping a spare battery on hand and knowing how to perform this simple maintenance task will help you stay prepared and avoid key fob battery surprises.
