We recently added a new video replacing a General Motors key fob battery. The fob is used in various Buick, Chevrolet and GMC models and Cadillac uses a mirror version of the same fob.
The fob uses a larger battery than is typically seen, a CR 2450. It will last longer than the more common CR 2032. The embedded mechanical key and the tip of a very small screwdriver will be needed as tools.
The video has been added to our Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet and GMC, and pages here, here, here, and here respectively. Overall, we now have a seven videos that help drivers of GM models in the event that the battery in the key fob dies. These videos will help you get in and start your vehicle even if it is not responding to the key fob, as well as replacing the battery in the fob.
Smart Keys or Intelligent Keys, or Access Keys – or whatever the manufacturer of your chooses to call them – that let you into your car and start it with just a touch use up their internal batteries at alarming rates, catching busy drivers unawares – even though the car had tried to warn you.
Our goal is to help you feel safe – and keep you moving or get you moving if at all possible – rather than leave you fretting whenever your key fob stops working. The instructions for getting into and starting most keyless start cars can be found on our pages – without roadside assistance.
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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Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow.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.
The author has 25 years of automotive experience and has assembled the most extensive collection of symbols and warning lights anywhere (over 1,000!) and can help you open and start any keyless start car with a dead key fob battery. BA, St. Joseph’s College, ME: MS, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NY
So, what is that light on your dashboard? What follows is easily the most complete list available of symbols and warnings that may appear in and on your car’s dashboard or instrument cluster.
The following are warning lights and indicators found in vehicles built by GMC. Click the link to the right of each one to learn more.
How They Are Presented
They are roughly ordered by importance, which tends to be by color (red, amber, yellow, orange, green, blue, gray). There are nearly 80 of them, so search carefully!
Need the symbols for another manufacturer? Click here!
Models examined include Acadia, Canyon, Hummer, Savana, Sierra, Terrain, and Yukon.
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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.
The author has 25 years of automotive experience and has assembled the most extensive collection of symbols and warning lights anywhere (over 1,000!) and can help you open and start any keyless start car with a dead key fob battery. BA, St. Joseph’s College, ME: MS, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NY
Finally, if you need another manufacturer, click here.
Hummer
To start a GMC model with a dead key fob, a pocket to place the transmitter will need to be identified. Once the fob is properly placed, the vehicle will recognize the fob and the vehicle can be started as normal. In the new Hummer EV, the pocket is the rear cup holder, as shown to the right. Place the key fob in the cup holder with the buttons facing up and start the car as normal, pressing the brake pedal and the POWER button while in park or neutral.
Yukon
The large SUV’s from GM, including the GMC Yukon, feature a transmitter pocket located in the face of the front of the inside of the center console, as shown to the right. Slide the transmitter into the pocket with the key ring facing out, buttons forward (in a Chevrolet Suburban we had on hand, the engine started with the buttons facing either way). It is a loose fit, but don’t be concerned. With the vehicle in Park or Neutral, press the brake pedal and the Start / Stop ignition button as normal. Check out the video here.
Sierra, Yukon, 2021 and later
In an all to common inability to leave well enough alone, this is changed in the Yukonwith bucket seats for the 2021 model year. Its changed again in 2023 (below). This will also cover the 2020 and newer GMC Sierra. There are now three back up locations for the transmitter. Again if the vehicle has bucket seats, the transmitter is dropped between the two cup holders (right). In the Sierra in 2022, the cup holders are one in front of the other (far right). In this case, drop the transmitter in the space between the cup holders and the shifter.
In both the Sierra and Yukon models in 2021 and beyond without bucket seats, the back up transmitter pocket is a slot at the back of the lowest storage bin (there are two of them) in the center area of, and beneath, the front seat. In all cases, once the transmitter is in place, press the brake pedal and the Start / Stop button together, starting the vehicle as normal.
Terrain
The Terrain small crossover SUV got its first taste of keyless ignition in the 2018 model. It has bucket seats and the back up location is in a cup holder, nearly identical to the Yukon above, and exactly what the Yukonwith bucket seats uses beginning in 2023. The cup holders are side by side (right) and the left side cup holder is used. As always, face the buttons up and with the vehicle in Park or Neutral, press the brake pedal and the Start / Stop ignition button as normal.
Acadia
In the Acadia crossover, the pocket for the transmitter is located in the face of the rear of the inside of the center console. Slide the transmitter into the pocket with the key ring facing out, and the buttons up (or however it will fit!). With the vehicle in Park or Neutral, press the brake pedal and the Start / Stop ignition button as normal. And we have a video of the process here.
The location is changed in the Acadia for the 2020 model year, though 2023. For those years, the back up slot is at the bottom of the center console, as shown to the right. The console liner must be lifted away to expose what is a fob-shaped depression. Once again, with the transmitter in place, press the Start / Stop button and the brake pedal together to start the vehicle.
In 2024 Acadia, the back up pocket pocket is moved to the driver’s side cup holder. See the Terrain, above.
Canyon
In 2023, the Canyon gets its first look at keyless start. In this case however, the back up spot is in the right cup holder (right image). Evidently, just to be different. And again, with the transmitter or key fob in place, press the Start / Stop button and the brake pedal together to start the vehicle as normal.
Note: 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.
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.
The author has 25 years of automotive experience and has assembled the most extensive collection of symbols and warning lights anywhere (over 1,000!) and can help you open and start any keyless start car with a dead key fob battery. BA, St. Joseph’s College, ME: MS, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NY
Finally, if you need another manufacturer, click here.
Retrieving the Mechanical Key
Keyless or push button start GMC models use the third of three GM key styles. A mechanical key is held inside the fob and is needed to get into the vehicle.
There are two slightly different shapes, but each operates in the same basic way. There is a button on the side of the key fob or transmitter near the key ring, as shown above. To remove the mechanical key, press the button and pull the key away.
Getting Inside
If a key hole is visible at the back of the driver’s door handle, simply insert the key and turn and you’re in.
Unfortunately, many GM models hide the key holes under a cap at the back of the driver’s door, and this includes the GMC Acadia and Terrain. To remove the cap, pull the door handle out to the open position. Insert the key into the slot on the bottom of the cap (3, right).
Push it as far upwards as possible and hold 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. Look for a videohere to help.
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.
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!
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.
The author has 25 years of automotive experience and has assembled the most extensive collection of symbols and warning lights anywhere (over 1,000!) and can help you open and start any keyless start car with a dead key fob battery. BA, St. Joseph’s College, ME: MS, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NY
How to Open, Start and Replace Fob Batteries in GMC Vehicles
We now have seven videos offering help to GMC drivers who’s key fob or remote control batteries have gone dead.
Battery replacement videos are at the end of the list.
Here we’ve made a compilation of GMC SUVs and Pick ups covering 2021 through 2024 models.
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This video one covers the GMC Yukon on its own.
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In this video, we have a GMC Acadia in hand. The next one used a stand-in.
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Here’s a video demonstration for keyless start GMC Acadia and Terrain owners.
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This video will help with getting in and starting the GMV Yukon, as well as the Cadillac Escalade and the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban.
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Replacing the battery in a GMC fob in use since 2021.
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This one covers GMC key fobs used in keyless start models.
Models covered include the Denali, Yukon, Acadia, and Terrain.
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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.
The author has 25 years of automotive experience and has assembled the most extensive collection of symbols and warning lights anywhere (over 1,000!) and can help you open and start any keyless start car with a dead key fob battery. BA, St. Joseph’s College, ME: MS, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NY
GM Now Uses 17 Differing Back-up Pockets! While putting together a review of 2018 push button start models, we discovered that the new GMC Terrain and Acadia had been added, and that this was introduced in the Acadia in 2017.
In addition, these two models have hidden key holes, like those used by Chevrolet. But what struck us was that the cars did not use the same back up start process, and that the spots are only similar to other General Motors made cars and SUVs.
The result is we now have 17 distinct images of back up start key fob pockets. We keep asking and hoping for standardization, but instead…
Similar, Not the Same
In truth, there are many similarities. For instance, most back up pockets are in the center console of GM vehicles. However, the Acadia’s pocket is at the top of the back of the console, only the 4th model using this area. The majority of the other models feature the slot somewhere in the front of the center console. The steering column and glove box are also used.
The Terrain uses a cup holder. But because they are side by side, it is the first to use a left side cup holder. The Chevrolet Camaro uses the back one while the Buick Encore and Envision use the front. The Verano, Regal and Lacrosse also use the front, but the cup holder itself needs to be removed! And so on.
Standardize!
The point is, there is no standardization and unfortunately the company does not seem to be headed anywhere near selecting a single back up location.
Why not? Seriously, why not??? Following the key cylinder debacle GM announced it would move all their vehicles to push button or keyless start, eventually, and we suggested then that they use the opportunity to standardize the process. They didn’t, not that they were listening to us.
——————————————————————-
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.
The author has 25 years of automotive experience and has assembled the most extensive collection of symbols and warning lights anywhere (over 1,000!) and can help you open and start any keyless start car with a dead key fob battery. BA, St. Joseph’s College, ME: MS, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NY
We post videos here of us replacing batteries in key fobs or remotes.
Manufacturers are listed in alphabetical order. All GM, Stellantis (FCA (except Wagoneer)), Nissan, and Toyota Motors made vehicles are grouped together under their parent company names.
FCA, early (tapered) Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge key fob battery replacement.
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FCA, for a Fiat.
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FCA, newest key fob style.
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FCA, for Maserati.
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FCA for a new Jeep flip key fob.
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Ford, Lincoln Fobs
Ford and Lincoln, one of three key fob styles, updated.
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Ford and Lincoln, a second key fob style.
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Ford/Lincoln, a third fob, introduced in 2016.
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General Motors Fobs
General Motors fob in use since 2021 across all makes.
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General Motors late model fob.
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GM, a newer Chevrolet key fob.
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An even newer Chevrolet fob, and better battery handling.
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GM, a Buick flip key.
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GM, Buick key fob, updated.
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GM, for a Cadillac.
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GM, 2021 and newer Cadillac.
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GM, for GMC models.
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This one is for a Chevrolet flip key, still in use with some keyless start cars.
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Holden Fob
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Honda Fobs
Honda, older key fob.
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And a new Honda key fob. Be VERY careful with these!
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Hyundai, Kia Fobs
Kia key fob, Pre-2014. Some Hyundai fobs may be similar.
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Newer Kia key fob.
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This video cover the side button 2019 and newer Kia fob
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This one is for a newer Hyundai key fob. A little different from the one above.
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Land Rover Jaguar Fobs
A fob from Land Rover. Newer Jaguars also use this style.
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Post 2018 (roughly) Land Rover, Jaguar DIY key fob battery replacement.
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Toyota, Lexus Fobs
Most common Lexus key fob. Toyota fobs may be similar.
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Next gen Lexus or Toyota key fob, updated.
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2019 and newer Lexus.
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This one covers Toyotas exclusively.
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Toyota Post 2018 key fob battery replacement.
Mercedes-Benz Fobs
Older Mercedes-Benz key fob.
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New style Mercedes-Benz key fob.
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Mitsubishi Fob
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Nissan, Infiniti Fobs
Most common four button Nissan and Infiniti key fobs, updated.
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Nissan three button key fob, updated.
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The latest key fob style, so far used in an Infinity only.
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Porsche Fob
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Subaru Fob
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Tesla Fobs
Tesla fob, Model X only.
This one covers the Model S.
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VW Fobs
Volkswagen flip key-style key fob.
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Volkswagen embedded mechanical key style.
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Newer flip key style.
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Volvo, Polestar Fobs
Volvo key fob, older models.
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Volvo, Polestar, new generation key fob.
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Wagoneer Fob
Wagoneer key fob, new models (post 2021).
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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.
The author has 25 years of automotive experience and has assembled the most extensive collection of symbols and warning lights anywhere (over 1,000!) and can help you open and start any keyless start car with a dead key fob battery. BA, St. Joseph’s College, ME: MS, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NY
GM Now Uses 17 Differing Back-up Pockets
Too Many Back Up Start Locations
GM Now Uses 17 Differing Back-up Pockets! While putting together a review of 2018 push button start models, we discovered that the new GMC Terrain and Acadia had been added, and that this was introduced in the Acadia in 2017.
In addition, these two models have hidden key holes, like those used by Chevrolet. But what struck us was that the cars did not use the same back up start process, and that the spots are only similar to other General Motors made cars and SUVs.
The result is we now have 17 distinct images of back up start key fob pockets. We keep asking and hoping for standardization, but instead…
Similar, Not the Same
In truth, there are many similarities. For instance, most back up pockets are in the center console of GM vehicles. However, the Acadia’s pocket is at the top of the back of the console, only the 4th model using this area. The majority of the other models feature the slot somewhere in the front of the center console. The steering column and glove box are also used.
The Terrain uses a cup holder. But because they are side by side, it is the first to use a left side cup holder. The Chevrolet Camaro uses the back one while the Buick Encore and Envision use the front. The Verano, Regal and Lacrosse also use the front, but the cup holder itself needs to be removed! And so on.
Standardize!
The point is, there is no standardization and unfortunately the company does not seem to be headed anywhere near selecting a single back up location.
Why not? Seriously, why not??? Following the key cylinder debacle GM announced it would move all their vehicles to push button or keyless start, eventually, and we suggested then that they use the opportunity to standardize the process. They didn’t, not that they were listening to us.
——————————————————————-
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.
The author has 25 years of automotive experience and has assembled the most extensive collection of symbols and warning lights anywhere (over 1,000!) and can help you open and start any keyless start car with a dead key fob battery. BA, St. Joseph’s College, ME: MS, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, NY