New smart key problem

[direstraits71]

The part of the fob that starts the car via the slot in the dash is a passive RFID device that is queried by the car. No battery is required in the fob for the car to start via the slot.

[Patrick Wong]

Originally Posted by Arthur Dunkel

... I do take it that there is a battery in there. Do you know if the battery has to be functioning even if I insert the fob in the slot? Will the car start with a dead fob battery if the fob is inserted in the slot? I hope I'm not stranded before Sat. when I can get in to the service center. ss. Arthur

Hi Arthur,

Yes, there is a battery in the fob, CR2032, which you can buy at any drugstore for ~$5 or less.

If you insert the fob into the slot, then the battery is not necessary. Use the mechanical key hidden in the fob to open the driver's door lock if necessary.

You have to push very hard to get the fob cover off, while holding the release catch with one hand. Once you get the cover off, subsequent attempts will become easier.

You will need a very small Phillips screwdriver to remove the small screws that secure the battery cover and become visible after you've removed the fob cover with your fingers. (Radio Shack sells a suitable set of small screwdrivers, I think the 2 mm size will work here.)

[richard schumacher]

A small flat screwdriver or awl can be useful for prying, to help start the fob cover sliding off (and remember that it *slides* off parallel to the long axis of the fob, it does not lift away from the body of the fob).

[Arthur Dunkel]

Originally Posted by richard schumacher

A small flat screwdriver or awl can be useful for prying, to help start the fob cover sliding off (and remember that it *slides* off parallel to the long axis of the fob, it does not lift away from the body of the fob).

Thanks to all who replied. I took the key in to service and the girl who came out to greet me took the cover off slick as a whistle. I couldn't believe it. I tried to get the cover off again and couldn't do it. I then discovered that you have to press on the emblem, and not above it. Anyway, I took it to the parts department and the clerck replaced the battery free of charge. But, I'm glad to know that a battery isn't necessary if the key is in the slot. So, for now, everything is going great.

[Bob64]

The trick to sliding off the battery cover is the release for the manual key. Keep it open, and then slide it off.

there's nothing under the emblem that holds it.