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key is dead

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Old Apr 2, 2011 | 07:05 PM
  #1  
vegaslocal's Avatar
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Default key is dead

My key fob won't open my doors, nor will it start the car. (I can get into the car by using the manual key from inside the fob). I only own one key so I can't use the second to troubleshoot. Is it obvious/common that I just need a new battery in the fob? My car's an '07 & I can't even figure out how to open the fob-it doesn't look quite like the one in the picture in the service manual. Do I take the bus to Batteries Plus? Thank you anyone who can help.
 
Old Apr 2, 2011 | 11:25 PM
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Unfortunately they are SEALED and recharged while driving .... If it is not charging you either need a new fob or the car is not charging it... hate to say it but dealer time
 
Old Apr 3, 2011 | 09:59 AM
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Thank you! Guess I'll sit tight today (Sunday) & call the dealer tomorrow. Seems silly to use my roadside assistance plan for a free tow but I might just end up doing that tomorrow.
 
Old Apr 3, 2011 | 11:34 AM
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I would think it should start the car even with a dead FOB battery ...
Are you sure the cars battery is OK ? Try jumping it ?
 
Old Apr 4, 2011 | 03:25 PM
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Geez, you're right. I called around this AM & the Las Vegas Mini service said "needs a new battery, have it towed in". When I asked if I could buy a battery elsewhere they said "no because it'll be the wrong size & we have to reset all the computer info". Price would be "aprrox. $340". YIKES! So then I called the Denver Mini service & they told me it probably just needed a jump & if I needed a new battery Interstate sells a good one. Wow, what a difference.
I was all mixed up about it because the key wasn't working to open the doors & I didn't know that was battery related (because I'm a girl!). Anyway, end of story: a jump did the trick! Thanks for your help!
Annie
 
Old Apr 4, 2011 | 05:50 PM
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Yes it took me a minute to figure it out ...
 
Old Apr 5, 2011 | 12:20 AM
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I think your car battery need charging.
 
Old Apr 5, 2011 | 06:08 PM
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Awesome job on your diagnosis, Bad Venge!
 
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