Key won't charge
 

06 MCS master key is not charging. I looked for a way to change the battery (like my 03 MCS key) but there is none. The manual tells me that the key has an extended life battery that is charged by the car during driving.

This is the wife's daily driver. She is using the spare key for now but I want to find the solution before that battery runs out as well.

The key starts the car but needs to be "coaxed" (aka - mash the crap out of the button) to lock and unlock the doors remotely. Also the distance to the vehicle with the key is reduced as well.

Any help?

First, the key in question is heading south if the other key works fine....

Second, You should always alternate keys to keep the battery in top shape.

Third, the battery is not replaceable and the whole key will have to be replaced...

However, I have seen some aftermarket keys lately that have sparked my interest and you might do a little more research than I have to get some answers. I know the EWS chip will have to either go into the new key or a locksmith with key programming capabilities will have to program a new key for you. The communication and validation of the remote functions is much more easy than that of the older mini that you had. Any key that works on the same frequency can work your remotes after initialization. The key has three seperate functions:

1: Mechanically work door locks and ignition lock cylinder
2: Communicate with EWS module through the torroidial coil for proper key identification
3: Communicate with the General Module for remote door unlocking


HTH, Chad