How to Use Your Citroen Key Fob Smartly
Many car owners don't realize that their key fobs are equipped with some cool features. These tricks are useful when you need to summon your car such as Tesla, or to deter home intrusions.
Key fobs can be subject to a variety of physical damage, and are not indestructible. It's relatively easy to fix any broken keyfob.
Keyless Entry
Many modern vehicles are equipped with key fobs that permit owners to unlock and start their vehicle without the need of inserting an actual key into the ignition barrel. The keys are equipped with a transponder that sends a coded message to the car. Only when the signal is received correctly is the vehicle able to start.
Key fobs come with a range of built-in functions, some that owners aren't aware of, but that are extremely useful when needed. If your key fob from Citroen was not working, whether it was due to dropping it on the floor, which caused damage to the internal chip or simply because it has been unable to function, then t here are some options you can try.
You must first examine the battery of your key fob. This is usually the cause of several of the issues discussed above, since a weak or dead battery may prevent the key fob from transmitting its signals to the receiver module in the car. Replacing the battery is relatively easy and is done at home. Be sure to check for any water damage on the key fob as this could cause it to stop functioning. Re-seating your key fob in the ignition after you have replaced the batteries will aid in restoring functionality. It is also an excellent idea to test all the buttons on the key fob to test unlock and lock functions.
Remote Locking
If you hit the unlock button on your key fob and it fails to respond to your call, the battery in your remote may be dead. If this is the case, then the fob will need to be reprogrammed to work with your car. The process may differ for each vehicle model, however, it's generally the same. You must check all buttons on your key fob before you start to ensure that they are not damaged.
Consider whether the key fob is likely to be damaged through blunt force, water or circuit board scratch marks. If it is, you'll have to dismantle the key fob and conduct a visual inspection of its internal components. If the battery connector's terminals are damaged or loose, carefully soldering them back to their original positions can restore your key fob in good working order.
Some key fobs come with one "Panic Button". This button is intended to scare off potential thieves, particularly if you are in a remote area like an underground parking garage. The function isn't 100% secure, but it will deter criminals who may try to steal your car or break into your home. The panic button emits a loud sound, which can scare anyone who comes in.
Engine Start
It is possible to turn your car on and off using your unique key fob. The system will ensure that the engine will only come on when the key fob is within reach. This feature is especially useful in cold weather as it lets you heat or precool your vehicle at the comfort of your home.
If your car displays an error message telling you that "key not detected" Try holding the keyfob in the steering column, or in some modern vehicles, put it inside the central armrest bin, the dashboard or cupholder. The keyfob is now equipped to press START in order to start the car.
It is easy to reprogram a Citroen's key fob yourself for locking and unlocking. Programming a keyfob with push-start is more difficult and requires specialist knowledge and equipment. We are experts in this field and if you've lost your key fob, or require assistance to get it started contact us.
Since 1998 all Citroen key transponders are used (also known as chips). They must be programmed. It can be difficult to do this, especially in the case of lost keys. However we can fix the majority of cars when all keys are missing.
Battery Warning Light
If you notice a yellow/orange warning light showing a car and swirls on the dash, it could be the Citroen Traction control system is reporting fault. It is important to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic or Citroen dealership to resolve the issue. This will not affect driving, but it's important to be inspected as it may require a system service fix.
The key fob's battery warning icon on your dashboard may indicate that the battery in the key fob are at low levels. They will have to be replaced. This is very easy and can be done on the road as most keys can be opened to let the replacement batteries to be inserted. They are typically the CR2025 or CR2032 3-Volt batteries that are available at all electronics stores. Check your owner's manual for the specifics or YouTube videos on how to use this.
Since 1998, all Citroen vehicles are equipped with transponders that must be programmed into the vehicle. This is much easier than in the past, and we can program keys on-site. The old key type was a chip that had fixed codes, like the philips type 33. We are able to make spare keys for these models, however they'll require a key code to program them.