As the cold weather arrives, our cars and vans need a little more care and attention to keep them running smoothly, and drivers should be aware of the importance of keeping their key fob in a warm location when not in use!
Over the last 12 months, Google searches for “why is my key fob not working?” have rocketed by 100%, while research from Auto Trader has found over 30 million videos relating to “how to start my car if my fob is dead”. This is clearly a widespread and common problem, often due to the temperatures outside.
The majority of new cars and vans utilise a battery-operated car key to unlock and start the vehicle; however, when that key fob is exposed to colder temperatures, the battery inside loses power as the chemicals inside that generate energy slow down. Exposure to cold temperatures can reduce the battery's capacity by up to 30%, meaning that if your key fob is already below 30% charge, it will not work.
To mitigate this issue, drivers are advised to store their keys in a warm and secure location to help maintain battery performance. For emergencies, many smart keys include a hidden mechanical blade that can be used to unlock the car manually.
The lifespan of a key fob battery generally ranges between two and six years, depending on usage and vehicle type. While some cars alert drivers when the battery is low, there are other signs to watch for. For instance, if the key fob loses signal strength and only works within a short distance of the car or requires multiple presses to function, it’s likely time for a replacement. To prevent unexpected issues, drivers are encouraged to have their key fob batteries checked during routine vehicle servicing to ensure they remain functional.
So, staying proactive on your key fob maintenance and taking precautions against cold weather will reduce the chance of you being stranded this winter!