Tag: clicker

Open a Vauxhall with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open a Vauxhall with a Dead Key Fob

Getting into Your Vauxhall or Opel

  • First note that if you are already inside, click here for help getting started!
  • Second, for video help, click here.
  • Finally, if you need or want another manufacturer, click here.

Retrieving the mechanical keyVauxhall flip key

If the key fob or electronic key is not working, getting into your vehicle will require a mechanical key. Most Vauxhall and Opel models use a simple flip or fold out key fob. Push the button in the corner of the front of the fob (arrow, right) and the mechanical key will unfold.

Electronic key oneVauxhall rectangular key fobVauxhall electronic key 2It gets a little more complicated from here. There are four electronic key styles that have a mechanical key hiding inside. In the first three (right), the arrow points to a button or slide lever. Push the button or slide the lever and pull the key ring end to remove the mechanical key.

Astra van key fobThis fourth style is used exclusively in some Astra models and the mechanical key is hiding behind a cover. Press locking mechanism on back side and remove cap by pushing it gently forward. Push the mechanical  key towards the outside over the detent and pull it away.

Getting Inside

In most cases, a key hole is visible at the back of the driver’s door handle. If this is the case, insert the mechanical key and turn, and you’re in.

Astra Insignia key holeIn some Astra and Insignia models, the key hole is hiding behind a cap at the back of the driver’s door handle. Look for a slot under the cap. Insert the mechanical key into the slot and again hold upward pressure. Then rotate the key upward until the cap comes away (right).

To replace the cap, insert it with the lower side in the recesses. The rotate it upwards and push it until the cap engages at the upper side.

Remember, getting in the car is most important. If you have difficulty replacing the cap, don’t. Let your dealer do it when you get a new battery for your Key FOB!

Other models covered here include the Ampera, Combo, Corsa, Crossland, Grandland, Mokka, Vivaro and Zafira.

Continue to Part II, Getting Started …

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Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the  use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2020/12/vauxhall-dead-key-fob-help-part-i-getting-in/

Start a Vauxhall with a Dead Key Fob

How to Start a Vauxhall with a Dead Key Fob

Starting Your Vauxhall or Opel

  • First note that if you are still locked out, click here for help getting inside!
  • Second, for video help, click here.
  • Finally, if you need or want another manufacturer, click here.

Vauxhall and Opel use several back up start methods for its push button start models. In each case described below, once the key fob is in place, the vehicle can recognize that it is present.Ampera back up start

The Ampera features a small hole in the storage compartment on the top of the dashboard. Flip open the mechanical key and push the key into the hole (right). Do NOT attempt to turn the mechanical key! Simply step on the brake, or clutch with a manual transmission, and press the Start / Stop button to start the car as normal.

Astra and Mokka back up start startAstra and Mokka models both use the front cup holder as a back up start location. Drop the key fob into the cup holder with the buttons facing up (right). Again, you can now simply step on the brake, or clutch with a manual transmission, and press the Start / Stop button the start to car as normal.

Steering column back up spotThe Combo, Corsa, Crossland and Grandland models all share a common back up start process. Hold the electronic key with the buttons facing out on the marking on the steering column (right). Press the Start / Stop button with your other hand while stepping on the brake, or clutch with a manual transmission, and the vehicle will start as normal. Note that the key fob must be held against the mark until the car starts.

Astra van Zafira back upThe Astra Van and Zafira models use a similar process, but the mark has a different appearance. The mark is round with a lock and lines radiating from it inside. And it is close to the Start / Stop button (right). Hold the electronic key with the buttons facing out on the mark. Press the Start / Stop button with your other hand while stepping on the brake, or clutch with a manual transmission, and the vehicle will start as normal. Note again that the key fob must be held against the mark until the car starts.

Insignia back up locationThe Insignia model uses a unique back up location. There is a transmitter pocket behind the front cover of the center console in front of the shifter. Open it and place the electronic key on the spot with the buttons up (right). You can now simply step on the brake, or clutch with a manual transmission, and press the Start / Stop button to start the car as normal.

Vivaro back up startFinally, the Vivaro uses a slot above the Start / Stop button as a back up (right). The key fob must be slid into the the slot. Once it is there, you can step on the brake, or clutch with a manual transmission, and press the Start / Stop button to start the car as normal.

… Return to Part I, Getting In

——————————————————————-

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the  use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2020/12/vauxhall-dead-key-fob-help-part-ii-getting-started/

Open a Holden with a Dead Key Fob

How to Open a Holden with a Dead Key Fob

Getting into Your Holden

  • But first, if you are already inside, click here for help getting started!
  • Second, you’ll find video help here!
  • Finally, if you need or want another manufacturer, click here.

Retrieving the mechanical key

Holden flip keyHolden uses three key fob or transmitter styles. To get in the vehicle when the key fob battery is dead, a mechanical key will have to retrieved from the fob and used to unlock the car.

The first is a simple flip key (above right). Press the unmarked button to extend the mechanical key. It remains attached to the key fob. Use the mechanical key to unlock the driver’s door.

Holden remote controlHolden transmitterThe next two (shown to the right) feature a removable mechanical key and are quite similar (one has more buttons than the other). Each has a button on the side of the transmitter (remote control or ‘clicker’) near the key ring end. Press the button, as shown, and pull the key out.

Getting Inside

If a key hole is visible at the back of the driver’s door handle, simply insert the mechanical and turn, and you’re in.

Holden door handle 1The CommodoreAcadia and and Equinox models are hiding their key holes behind a cover at the back of the driver’s door handle. To remove the cap on the Acadia and Equinox, pull the door handle out to the open position. Insert the key into the slot on the bottom of the cap (number 3, right).

Push it as far upwards as possible and hold some upward pressure. Then pry outward. And yes, you WILL feel like you are prying off a piece of your car! Move the cap rearward revealing the key cylinder. Now the mechanical key can be used in the cylinder.

To replace the cap, insert the two tabs at the back of the cap between the black seal and the metal base. Pull the door handle out to the door open position and move the cap forward and press to snap it into place. You can then release the door handle.

Holden door handle 2The cap on the Commodore is slightly different but there is still a slot under the cap. Insert the mechanical key into the slot and again hold upward pressure. Then rotate the key upward until the cap comes away.

To replace the cap, insert it with the lower side in the recesses. The rotate it upwards and push it until the cap engages at the upper side.

Remember, getting in the car is most important. If you have difficulty replacing the cap, don’t. Let your dealer do it when you get a new battery for your Key FOB!

Continue to Part II, Getting Started …

——————————————————————-

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the  use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2020/10/holden-dead-key-fob-help-part-i-getting-in/

Start a Holden with a Dead Key Fob

How to Start a Holden with a Dead Key Fob

Starting Your Holden

  • But first, if you are still locked out, click here for help getting inside!
  • Second, you’ll find video help here!
  • Finally, if you need or want another manufacturer, click here.

Holden uses three key fob styles (see Getting Inside) and many back up start variations, but we have them all here. If you have the right key fob, we’ll get you started and on the road, even if the fob’s internal battery is dead!

Commodore back-up start locationIn the Commodore, open the cover of the center console storage area in front of the shift lever. Place the transmitter in the transmitter pocket beside the power outlet, with the buttons facing up as shown in the image. Remove any additional items that might be in the area. Press the brake pedal and the engine Start / Stop button and you’ll be on your way.

Equinox back-up locationThe Equinox uses the left side cup holder as a back up location. Make sure there is nothing, particularly coins, in the cup holder, and simply drop the fob into it with the buttons facing up. The car will recognize the fob and pressing the brake pedal and Start / Stop ignition button will have you on your way.

Trax back-up locationThe Trax, also uses a cup holder as its back up spot. However, there are three cup holders in the center console area, and the choice is the front and is separated from the two behind it. Be sure to use the one in the very front (see the image to right). Drop the key fob into the front cup holder, buttons up, and start the car as normal, using the Start / Stop button while stepping on the brake pedal.

Spark back-up locationThe Spark uses a unique back up start location. The electronic key fob is placed in the center console transmitter pocket, which is in front of the cup holder and alongside the brake handle (image to the left). While in Park, press the brake pedal and press the engine Start/Stop button and you will be on your way.

Acadia back-up locationFinally, the Acadia uses a back up pocket located in the back of the center console (image to the right). Drop transmitter or key fob into the pocket with the key ring up and the buttons facing the front. With the vehicle in Park or Neutral, press the brake pedal and the Start / Stop ignition button as normal. Once again, you will be underway.

Engine Start Operation IndicatorNote: If you have made an attempt to start the vehicle without success, there may be residual pressure in the brake system and a new warning light may appear (left) or text message to Step on the Brake. Press the brake pedal very, very hard when trying to start the vehicle again to be sure that the release switch behind the pedal is engaged. Or wait a few minutes and try again.

… Return to Part I, Getting In

——————————————————————-

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the  use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2020/10/holden-dead-key-fob-help-part-ii-getting-started/

Start a Mercedes-Benz with a Dead Key Fob

How to Start a Mercedes-Benz with a Dead Key Fob

Starting Your Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes Start ButtonTo start a Mercedes-Benz that uses the tapered SmartKey style, the engine Start / Stop ignition button must be removed. It appears to ‘float’ above the dashboard and is easily pulled away from the ignition lock. Insert the tapered end of the KEYLESS-GO key in the ignition lock and turn it to start and operate old school style.

AMG ignition lockBeginning in 2017, the ignition lock in AMG roadsters and coupes is found at the back of the center console storage area, as shown in the image. Insert the tapered key fob into the ignition lock and turn it to start and operate old school style.

In 2019, the AMG gets the new SmartKey, described next.

New Mercedes key fob

AMG slot

AMG Back-up Slot

2021 Mercedes key fobModels using the new, rounded SmartKey fob styles , shown to the left, require that the fob be placed in a back up location or slot. These models, as of the 2019 model year, are the AMG, C-Class, E-Class and S-Class.

Warning! Do NOT attempt to remove the Start / Stop ignition button!

C-Class slot

C-Class Back-up Slot

E-Class slot

E-Class Back-up Slot

The back up slot in each model is found at the very front of the center console. Each slot is slightly different depending on the model, and an image from each model is shown here.

Each slot is marked by the image of a metal key with lines radiating from it, except for the C-Class, which has an image of the SmartKey fob itself (left).

S-Class slot

S-Class Back-up Slot

Make sure that the slot is empty. Remove the SmartKey fob from the key ring and slide or place the fob into the slot with its buttons facing up. You can now start the car as normal. The car will recognize the key fob even if the fob’s internal battery is dead.

GT 53 slotA 220 slotThe new SmartKey fob style had spread through nearly the entire product line by the 2019 model year. However, the mark (the image of a metal key with lines radiating from it) is found in or near cup holders, which are at the front of the center console. See the two images at left. The 2021 S-Class Maybach uses the rear cup holder as well (second image) as well as a newer key fob. It is similar to the one shown above.

Cup holder back up imageAlso in 2019, Mercedes-Benz introduced the first of its electric and electrified models, the GLC 350e. And while the mark is also found in the cup holder, it too uses the image of the SmartKey (see the image to the right), like the updated C-Class models noted above. This will likely take over all model lines with time.

GLE 350 slotFinally come a small number of exceptions. Since 2019, the GLE and GLS SUVS use a slot, with the mark of a key with lines radiating from it, is found inside the center console storage area in the front. G-Class SUVs joined them in 2024. See the image to the left. Drop the key fob into the slot and start the vehicle as normal.

Note: For reasons unknown, all the Mercedes models we’ve tested have s light delay built in after the start/stop button is pushed and the key fob being recognized. Not to worry…

You can see videos of the open and start processes here, as well as key fob battery replacement.

Use Brake IndicatorNote: If you have made an attempt to start the vehicle without success, there may be residual pressure in the brake system and a new warning light may appear (left) or text message to Step on the Brake. Press the brake pedal very, very hard when trying to start the vehicle again to be sure that the release switch behind the pedal is engaged. Or wait a few minutes and try again.

… Return to Part I, Getting in

——————————————————————-

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the  use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2018/11/mercedes-benz-dead-key-fob-help-part-ii-getting-started/

Start a Volkswagen or Audi with a Dead Key Fob

How to Start a Volkswagen or Audi with a Dead Key Fob

Starting Your Volkswagen or Audi

Audi SlotEarly Audi models use a slot in the dashboard but do not use a Start/Stop button. The fob itself is pushed to start or stop the car. If the key fob battery is dead, the vehicle will already recognize the fob when inserted.

Audi and Volkswagen models that use the Start/Stop button and have a slot in the dashboard, as shown, insert the fob into the dashboard slot and press it to start while depressing the brake pedal as if the fob were the Start/Stop button. The actual Start/Stop ignition button is disabled.

Radiating KeyIn models that do not feature a slot for the fob, look for the symbol of a key with lines radiating from it, as shown. It will be to the right of the steering column on the dashboard (Audi) or on the right side of the steering column itself (VW).

In the latest Audi Q7, the symbol is just in front of the center console storage area. Touch the tip or the back of the fob to the symbol – or in the case of Q7 simply drop the fob on the symbol – and press the Start/Stop button while depressing the brake pedal, all at the same time.

Audi A5 Q5 start markIn 2018, the mark is moved to the driver’s side cup holder in the Audi A5 and Q5. This is also true of the A3 and Q3 beginning about 2021. The all electric eTron GT uses this mark as well. The mark is smaller and shaded and so a bit difficult to see. As with the Q7, the key fob can be dropped into the cup holder, and starting the car becomes a one hand (and one foot) operation. Press the Start/Stop button while stepping on the brake. It took two tries to before the key fob was recognized in our test car, but it did work.

A5 Bavk up spotHowever, in 2019, the A5 now has the mark at the front of the center console storage area, as shown to the right. Again the key fob can be dropped onto the spot, and starting the car needs only a single hand (and foot). Press the Start/Stop button while stepping on the brake. Our test car started first time in this case.

Audi new slotThe new (2019) Q8, and now the Q7, also has the marking in a cup holder. It is the front one in this case. However, we noted a slot between the cup holders adjacent to the 12 volt power outlet and shaped very much like the key fob, Sure enough, the fob was recognized when placed inside the slot.

eTron back up markModels are now being electrified. The e-tron GT uses the front cup as in the images above. However, the original e-tron and e-tron Sportback the mark is found in front of the of the cup holders (right). We have not had access to all electric models, but a back up location will likely be found in or near the cup holders.

Audi A4, S4 key fob markBy 2023, the A4 and S4 models sport the mark on the center console, just in front of the console storage area.

All this is to say that there will be a mark somewhere in all Audi and VW models, and in all likelihood if it is not found on the dashboard or the side of the steering column, it is most likely to be found somewhere on the console area.

ID4 mark2ID4 mark1The mark in Volkswagen’s new ID4 EV, the mark is moved to the front area of the center console. This follows the trend in Audi models. Originally, the front area is for storage and has removeable spacers. We found the mark by removing the front spacer (first image). Later, the same area was converted to cup holders. The mark is found in the first cup holder (closest to the driver) (second image).

Use Brake IndicatorNote: If you have made an attempt to start the vehicle without success, there may be residual pressure in the brake system and a new warning light may appear (left) or text message to Step on the Brake. Press the brake pedal very, very hard when trying to start the vehicle again to be sure that the release switch behind the pedal is engaged. Or wait a few minutes and try again.

Click here for video help with VW and Audi models and key fobs.

… Return to Part I: Getting In

——————————————————————-

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the  use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2018/11/volkswagen-and-audi-dead-key-fob-help-part-i-getting-started/

Start a Volvo or Polestar with a Dead Key Fob

How to Start a Volvo or Polestar with a Dead Key Fob

Starting Your Volvo or Polestar

Volvo Back Up Style 2Beginning with the 2020 XC-90 redesign and the newer key fob style, plus Polestar EV models, a sensor location is provided for the key fob. It is found in the second cup holder in the center or tunnel console. An illustration of a key with lines radiating from it can be seen at the bottom of the cup holder.

Polestar 2 back upNote that you will find the mark inside the small center console of the Polestar 2 (right), which is also the location of the second cup holder! Place the key fob in the cup holder. The vehicle will recognize the fob even if the fob’s internal battery is dead. The alarm will be turned off and the car can be started as normal, by turning the Start / Stop switch to the Start position while depressing the brake. Note that the Polestar 2 is started, or powered up, by stepping on the brake.

XC-40 backup locationIn the Volvo XC-40, the company’s first all electric model, and subsequently the C40 and EX40 EVs, the mark will be found inside the center console on the bottom and to the front (right). It too features the mark of a key with lines radiating from it. Place the key fob on the mark. The vehicle will recognize the fob even if the fob’s internal battery is dead. The alarm will be turned off and the car can be started as normal.

Beginning in 2021, a smart phone app became available for both Volvo and Polestar models and can be used to open and start these vehicles. A key card is added beginning in 2024, and the key fob cannot be used to start the car with a depleted battery.

Polestar 3 card readerSo, in both the Polestar 3 and 4, the key card is placed on the spot used to charge your smart phone (right), which is at the front of the center console. The key fob for the Polestar 3 can be recharged on this spot, the card reader, as well.

In any case, using the key card to start your car requires that noting else is on the card reader. It cannot simultaneously charge a phone and a key fob. The reader cannot read the card either if something is being charged.

Volvo Key SlotIn older, second generation keyless start Volvo models, an ignition slot comes into play. The slot will be found either alongside or below the Start/Stop ignition button. Insert the key fob into the ignition slot. This will turn off the alarm and allow the vehicle to be started as normal by pressing the Start / Stop button while depressing the brake.

Volvo Slot #2The vehicle will recognize the key fob even if the fob’s internal battery is dead.

The remote key can be removed from the ignition slot by pressing the it in lightly. The remote key will then be ejected slightly and can be removed from the slot.

Early Volvo backup startIn first generation keyless start models, the ignition switch is turned in normal conditions, similar to key start vehicles. There is a dummy key that needs to be removed. Press the the button found on the side of the dummy key, which frees it to be pulled away. The key fob can then be inserted in its place and the vehicle can be started (right).

Click here for video help specific to Volvo and Polestar models.

Use Brake IndicatorNote: If you have made an attempt to start the vehicle without success, there may be residual pressure in the brake system and a new warning light may appear (left) or text message to Step on the Brake. Press the brake pedal very, very hard when trying to start the vehicle again to be sure that the release switch behind the pedal is engaged. Or wait a few minutes and try again.

… Return to Part I: Getting In

——————————————————————-

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the  use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

These posts are for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2018/11/volvo-dead-key-fob-help-part-i-getting-started/