Each Volvo car model may have different shapes and styles. But most Volvo remote keys use lithium batteries which last between three to four years. When your fob battery is dying, it will show reduced response signs, such as a weak signal where you must come closer to your vehicle or push the button a few times to make it work.
Another sign is if your Volvo car has a start push-button, the Volvo vehicle may not always get the smart key fob signal when it is in your pocket or purse.
When such problems happen with your Volvo key fob, you can suspect that the battery is low, even though some other things can also cause similar troubles. If it happens, you can replace your remote battery yourself.
It is an easy job to change your key fob battery with the new one. And after the battery is replaced, the remote key will usually return to work normally again.
In case your battery completely dies, and your Volvo car doesn’t respond to any signal from your key fob, you can use your mechanical key until you replace the battery. You can lock and unlock the car doors. You can also start and stop the engine without any issues with the physical key.
What happens if the car key battery is low?
Similar to other electronic devices using batteries, the car key also needs battery replacement from time to time, even though it will take years to run out. When the key fob battery is getting lower over time, you will usually know because the vehicle has become less responsive to the signal from the remote that is losing strength.
As the key fob battery starts to become weaker, the transmitter will lose its range. This means that the fob has to be closer to the car to work. In some car models, there will be a warning pop-up on the driver’s display as “remote battery low.”
Another way to check the key fob battery is from the tiny dot light, which can usually be found in the most key fob. If the little light does not light up when you press a button in the fob, it is very likely that the battery will die.
After the battery nearly loses all of its power or even dies, you still can use the fob to start the car, but from a very close range. The reason is that the immobilizer security chip inside the fob can work without a battery.
As the last option, if the fob is not working at all, you can use the mechanical key that is usually hidden inside the fob. The mechanical key is available in most car models. There is no need to worry or panic because you can still make all the functions in your car work without the key fob.
How do I change the battery in my key fob?
When you want to change the key fob yourself, the first thing to check is to read the owner’s manual book for instructions. The second place to look for is maybe a video on Youtube, where there are probably some videos showing you how to replace the battery for your exact Volvo model. Here we will explain step by step how you change the battery in your fob like the general fob in most car models:
Step 1:
Open the key fob case until you can clearly see the inside part. If you are not sure how to open the case, try to find a slide button to open the case. In the case that there is no opening button, you might need a screwdriver to help you open the fob. Please don’t force it to open with a bare hand since you may hurt your finger and or break the fob’s case.
Step 2:
Remove the dead battery from its shell. Again, you should use a screwdriver or other small tool to take the battery. Also, check the battery position to ensure it is in the correct place. If the battery is not in the perfect position, it will not work even if it still has power.
Step 3:
Place the brand-new battery on the shell carefully. Make sure it is placed on the cover perfectly. Use a tool if necessary, so you won’t break any component in the key fob.
Step 4:
Close the fob case back slowly and carefully not to interrupt the battery position you have placed before. Then try to use the key fob if it works normally and properly with your vehicle. Lastly, always keep your key fob dry and keep it away from heat.