VW Arteon Key Fob Dead, DIY Battery Fix vs Shop Visit

Had the same issue with my 2019 VW Passat last month. The electronic key started acting up, first with inconsistent unlocking, then completely stopped working with the keyless entry system. The dashboard showed Battery in key empty warning. While it sounds serious, its typically just a standard key fob battery replacement. Most key fobs use CR2032 or CR2025 button batteries, which are common and inexpensive. For VW electronic keys, replacing the battery is straightforward: 1. Look for the release button on the key fob 2. Slide out the emergency metal key 3. Use it to carefully split the fob housing 4. Replace the battery noting the correct orientation 5. Snap the housing back together No need for a shop visit, auto parts stores carry these batteries. Just ensure you get the correct battery type for your specific key fob model. After replacement, you might need to press the unlock button a few times to resync with the car. This is regular maintenance, not a serious issue. Only visit a dealer if the key fob still doesnt work after battery replacement, as that could indicate a programming problem.

Thanks for sharing your experience. This exact thing happened to my Arteon last summer, the key fob died gradually and the car kept showing low battery warnings. I was worried at first but a simple battery replacement fixed everything. Glad to know I can save others from an unnecessary garage visit. Just wondering, how much did you end up paying for the battery replacement? Also, has everything been working properly since the fix, or have you noticed any other issues with the key fob? I found dealing with these electronic keys much simpler than expected, though getting the housing open was a bit tricky the first time.

Thanks for asking about the follow-up. After seeing the mechanic for the dead key problem, everything has worked flawlessly. The key fob battery replacement cost me 37€ total, including labor. The Battery in key empty warning disappeared right after, and the keyless entry system has been functioning perfectly. The technician mentioned these key battery issues are quite common in VW models. While I initially thought about DIY, I preferred having a professional handle it since they could also check if the key needed reprogramming. Turns out it was just a simple low battery situation, exactly like yours. No additional problems have surfaced in the months since the fob battery replacement. The remote locking, unlocking, and all key functions are working as they should. Its reassuring to know that when these key warnings pop up, its usually just a straightforward battery issue that can be resolved quickly.

Thanks everyone, wanted to share how this turned out. Went to my local mechanic yesterday and the experience was totally different from my last visit. They diagnosed the low voltage issue in the key fob right away and had the correct battery in stock. The whole thing took 15 minutes and cost 25€, much better than I expected. The tech showed me how to change the key battery myself next time, which was nice. No more error messages on the dash and the keyless entry is working perfectly again. Definitely learned my lesson about not assuming the worst when the key fob acts up. Such a relief it was just a simple fix. The remote functions are all working great now, locking, unlocking, everything. Really appreciate all the advice that helped me avoid an overpriced dealer visit.