How to Change Your Chrysler 300 Key Fob Battery and Fix Common Issues

Is your Chrysler 300 key fob starting to feel a little unresponsive? Maybe you have to get closer and closer to your vehicle for it to lock or unlock, or perhaps it’s stopped working altogether after a battery change? You’re not alone. Many Chrysler 300 owners experience key fob battery issues, but thankfully, it’s often a simple fix you can handle yourself.

This guide will walk you through the process of changing your Chrysler 300 key fob battery, step-by-step. We’ll also cover common problems that can arise after a battery replacement and how to troubleshoot them, ensuring you don’t need an expensive trip to the dealership.

Understanding Your Chrysler 300 Key Fob Battery

Before diving into the replacement process, let’s understand the basics of your Chrysler 300 key fob battery.

Identifying the Battery Type (CR2016)

Most Chrysler 300 key fobs use CR2016 batteries. These are 3V lithium coin cell batteries, readily available at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers. It’s always a good idea to double-check your owner’s manual or the markings inside your key fob to confirm the exact battery type required for your specific model year. Using the correct battery type ensures proper function and longevity of your key fob.

Symptoms of a Low Key Fob Battery

Recognizing the signs of a weakening key fob battery can save you from being stranded. Common symptoms include:

Reduced Range: You need to be closer to your Chrysler 300 than usual for the key fob to work.
Intermittent Operation: The key fob works sometimes but not others, especially in colder weather.
Dashboard Warning Light: Some Chrysler 300 models might display a “Low Key Fob Battery” warning message on the dashboard.
No Response: The key fob completely stops working, even when you’re right next to the vehicle.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s likely time to replace your Chrysler 300 key fob battery.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Chrysler 300 Key Fob Battery

Changing your Chrysler 300 key fob battery is a straightforward process that requires minimal tools and time. Here’s how to do it:

Tools You’ll Need

New CR2016 Batteries: Purchase high-quality CR2016 batteries for reliable performance.
Small Flathead Screwdriver or Pry Tool: A small screwdriver or a plastic pry tool (like those used for phone repair) will help you open the key fob casing without damage.
Soft Cloth (Optional): To protect the key fob surface from scratches.

Opening the Key Fob Casing

Locate the Notch: Examine your Chrysler 300 key fob. You should see a small notch or slot, usually on the side or bottom of the fob.
Insert Pry Tool: Gently insert the tip of your flathead screwdriver or pry tool into the notch.
Twist and Separate: Carefully twist the screwdriver or pry tool to separate the two halves of the key fob casing. Avoid using excessive force, as you could damage the plastic. You might hear a click as the casing begins to open.
Separate the Halves: Once you’ve created a small opening, you can usually use your fingers to gently pull apart the two halves of the key fob casing completely.

Removing and Replacing the Battery

Identify Battery Location: With the key fob open, you’ll see the battery compartment. The CR2016 battery is usually held in place by small clips.
Remove Old Battery: Note the orientation of the old battery (usually positive side up). Use your fingertip or the very tip of your pry tool to gently nudge the battery out of its compartment. Be careful not to damage the battery contacts.
Insert New Battery: Place the new CR2016 battery into the compartment, ensuring the positive (+) side is facing up, matching the orientation of the old battery. Press down gently until the battery is securely in place.

Closing the Key Fob Casing

Align the Halves: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing back together.
Press Firmly: Press the two halves together until they snap securely closed. You should hear a click, indicating that the casing is properly sealed.
Test the Key Fob: Test all the buttons on your key fob (lock, unlock, trunk, panic) to ensure they are working correctly.

Troubleshooting: Key Fob Not Working After Battery Change

In most cases, changing the battery will restore your Chrysler 300 key fob to perfect working order. However, sometimes you might encounter issues after replacing the battery. Here are common problems and how to resolve them:

Common Mistakes During Battery Replacement

Incorrect Battery Orientation: The most common mistake is inserting the new battery with the wrong polarity. Double-check that the positive (+) side of the battery is facing upwards, as it was with the old battery.
Dirty Battery Contacts: If the battery contacts inside the key fob are dirty or corroded, they might not make good contact with the new battery. Use a cotton swab and a tiny bit of rubbing alcohol to gently clean the contacts. Ensure they are completely dry before reassembling.
Using Expired Batteries: Always check the expiration date on new batteries. Using expired batteries can result in weak performance or no function at all.
Damage During Opening: If you used excessive force when opening the key fob, you might have damaged internal components. Inspect the circuit board and battery contacts for any visible damage.

Reprogramming Your Chrysler 300 Key Fob (EVIC method)

If your key fob still doesn’t work after verifying the battery and contacts, it might need reprogramming, especially for older Chrysler 300 models. Fortunately, many Chrysler 300s (especially those with an EVIC – Electronic Vehicle Information Center) can be reprogrammed without special tools.

Here’s how to attempt key fob reprogramming using the EVIC:

Enter Vehicle: Get into your Chrysler 300 and close all doors.
Ignition to ON Position: Turn the ignition key to the “ON” position, but do not start the engine.
Navigate EVIC Menu: Use the buttons on your steering wheel to navigate the EVIC menu until you find “Customer-Programmable Features” or a similar option.
Select “Program Remote Key”: Scroll through the menu options until you find “Program Remote Key” or “Train Remote”. Select “YES” if prompted.
Press Lock and Unlock Buttons: The EVIC will display a message like “PRESS REMOTE LOCK & UNLOCK THEN PRESS UNLOCK”. Simultaneously press and hold the “Lock” and “Unlock” buttons on your key fob for a few seconds, then release both. Immediately press and release the “Unlock” button again.
Listen for Chime: The vehicle should chime once to indicate successful programming. If you have additional key fobs to program, repeat step 5 within 30 seconds for each fob.
Test Key Fob: Turn the ignition off and test all buttons on your newly programmed key fob.

Important Notes on Reprogramming:

Simultaneous Press: Ensure you press the “Lock” and “Unlock” buttons at the same time as instructed.
Timing: Follow the timing instructions in the EVIC message closely.
EVIC Availability: This EVIC programming method may not be available on all Chrysler 300 models, especially base models without the full EVIC system. Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions for your vehicle.
Single Remote Programming: As mentioned in forums, it is possible to program a single remote using the EVIC method without needing a previously working remote.

When to Visit a Dealership

If you’ve tried battery replacement and EVIC reprogramming without success, or if you don’t have an EVIC system, you might need professional help. Consider visiting a Chrysler dealership or a qualified automotive locksmith in the following situations:

No EVIC Programming Option: Your Chrysler 300 model doesn’t offer key fob programming through the EVIC.
Reprogramming Fails: The EVIC reprogramming procedure does not work, and the key fob remains unresponsive.
Suspect Key Fob Damage: You suspect the key fob itself might be damaged beyond just battery issues.
Lost All Key Fobs: If you’ve lost all your key fobs, you’ll likely need a dealership or locksmith to program new ones, as this often requires specialized equipment.

Dealerships have diagnostic tools and programming equipment to handle more complex key fob issues. While it will be more expensive than a DIY battery change, professional programming ensures your key fob is correctly paired with your Chrysler 300.

Conclusion

Changing your Chrysler 300 key fob battery is usually a simple and cost-effective solution to restore remote functionality. By following these steps and troubleshooting tips, you can often avoid a trip to the dealership and get your key fob working like new again. Remember to use the correct CR2016 battery, pay attention to battery orientation, and consider EVIC reprogramming if needed. With a little patience, you can confidently handle this common car maintenance task yourself and keep your Chrysler 300 secure and convenient to operate.

If you’re still having trouble, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance from a qualified mechanic or your local Chrysler dealership. They have the expertise and tools to diagnose and fix any persistent key fob issues.