Wahoowa

Curious for C6 owners if anyone has had to replace the battery in their key fob? How long did the original battery last? I have an 05, and it seems like the range is getting weaker and weaker leading me to be concerned that the battery is going to crap out on me sometime soon. Would rather not be stuck somewhere with a dead fob.

Next question is starting the car in the event that the key fob goes dead. I know you use the key by the rear license plate and then pull the door release, but anyone have an idea if you can start the car with a dead fob?

s ladd

I do not think you will be able to start the car with a dead key FOB. That would defeat the security purpose behind the FOB.

shortski

Put the forb in the slot in the glove compartment, even with a dead battery it will work.

From OM:

NO FOBS DETECTED when you try to start the vehicle. If
this happens, place the transmitter in the glove box
transmitter pocket with the buttons facing towards the
passenger’s side. Then, with the vehicle in PARK (P) for
an automatic transmission press the break pedal and the
START button, or if your vehicle has a manual
transmission, press the clutch and the START button.
Although this will start the vehicle, it is recommended that
you replace the transmitter battery as soon as possible.
The DIC may display FOB BATTERY LOW.

Dave S

Once you get into the passenger compartment, insert the fob in the slot you'll find in the glove box. That will allow the ECM to recognize the fob & the engine will start.

Wahoowa

Very helpful, thanks all

Shortimer

Battery should be good for several years and it can be replaced. The owner's manual explains it. As explained above, the car can be started with a dead battery in the FOB.

Vette_DD

We were told in another thread by someone who should know, that the dead fob that you put in the slot in the glovebox must have the battery in it, even if the battery is dead. Something about needing a complete circuit.

GM says the typical life of a fob battery is about 3 years. 2005 owner's manual, page 2-9.

Wahoowa

Yeah, sounds like it is time for me to replace the batteries. Thanks for the info

cclive

Just for fun, I did try putting a fob in the glovebox slot that had NO battery in it...and it did start the car...but I wouldn't depend on that, as there are others here who did not have it work for them. If the fob has a battery in it, and even if it is dead, the car should start.

Use a nickel to pry open the fob, it is the perfect thickness. CR-2032 lithium battery available anywhere, even the supermarket.

Vette_DD

I bought a spare at Wally World.

CQRT

Walgreens - -2 for about $5 . . .I usually replace the batteries in any of the fobs every 2 years - - it's cheap insurance !

Hemlock

I hate it when people are smarter than me (I hate a lot of people). Great idea! I am going to buy two extra this afternoon. As you say, "it's cheap insurance."

Wahoowa

Agree that it is a good idea. I used to keep a couple extra AAA batteries in my glove box of my old Tahoe just in case the Viper Alarm remote ran out. Think I may get an extra slim battery for the Vette. That being said, I sure wish the key was designed more like my girlfriend's Infiniti smart key. There is a spot in the dash to insert hers and charge it when it gets low. The physical key is built in to the fob and slides out should you lose all power.

Max EPR

Fob?

cclive

Fob.

Vette_DD

fob1 (fob), n.
1. a small pocket just below the waistline in trousers for a watch, keys, change, etc. Cf. watch pocket.
2. a short chain or ribbon, usually with a medallion or similar ornament, attached to a watch and worn hanging from a pocket.
3. the medallion or ornament itself.

cclive

jasetheartist

I really appreciate this info! Lifesaver!!!!!!! THANKS!

jasetheartist

R u bragging now???? LOL!

BornSUPERCHARGED

I just replaced the battery in my fob for my 07, I think it was about to die because i would have to put it in the glove box for it to work sometimes. Now it starts up with no problem.