The operation of a modern car is often associated with minor but critical problems that can paralyze movement. One of these situations is the discharge of the battery in the Keyless system key fob, which is typical for a popular hatchback Nissan Note. Many owners are faced with the fact that the standard key stops responding to pressing, and automatic door opening becomes impossible, forcing them to look for alternative ways to access the interior.
To solve this problem, it is not necessary to contact a dealership, since replacing the power source is a procedure available to every car enthusiast with a minimum set of tools. The main thing is to know exactly what type of element is required for your key model, since Nissan Note was produced in different generations with different designs of remote controls. Choosing the wrong battery can lead to its rapid failure or damage to the electronic unit.
Key types and compatible batteries
Before you start purchasing a new battery, you need to determine the modification of your key. On the Russian market and in the CIS countries, there are most often two main types of remote controls for Nissan Note: classic folding key with buttons and modern smart key (Intelligent Key) without physical blades. Each of these devices requires a specific standard chemical current source that provides a stable voltage to the radio module.
In the vast majority of cases, both for folding and smart keys, a lithium battery is used. CR2032. This is a round battery with a diameter of 20 mm and a thickness of 3.2 mm, with a nominal voltage of 3 volts. It is this standard that provides sufficient capacity for the operation of the keyless entry system and remote control of locks over a long period of operation, usually from 1 to 2 years, depending on the intensity of use.
- 🔋 Standard battery for most models: CR2032 (3V Lithium).
- 🔋 Alternative compatible markings: DL2032, KCR2032, ECR2032.
- ⚠️ It is not recommended to use 1.2V or 2V rechargeable cells as they will not provide the required signal strength.
It is important to note that while the physical size of all 2032 batteries is the same, their manufacturing quality and internal components may vary significantly. Cheap analogues can quickly lose capacity at low temperatures, which is especially critical for owners Nissan Noteliving in the northern regions. Therefore, when choosing, you should give preference to proven brands that guarantee stable operation over a wide temperature range.
Tools and preparation for replacement
The process of replacing the power supply does not require complex specialized equipment or in-depth knowledge in the field of electronics. You will need a minimum set of items that you most likely already have in your home or car. The main tool for opening the key body is a flat-head screwdriver or a special plastic tool for disassembling cases so as not to damage the external finish.
If you use a metal screwdriver, be sure to wrap the working part with electrical tape or use a thin, flat-bladed knife to avoid accidentally shorting the board pins. For smart key Nissan Note a small coin or metal plate may also be useful, as the opening mechanism is different from that of folding keys. The main rule is to act carefully and not use excessive force to avoid breaking the plastic latches.
☑️ Preparing to replace the battery
Before starting work, it is recommended to check the manufacturing date of the new battery. Lithium cells have an expiration date, and if you buy an old batch, it may be dead within a couple of months. It is also worth preparing a place with good lighting so as not to lose small parts, such as the spring contact or the battery itself, which can easily fly out if the case is opened incorrectly.
- 💡 Use a soft cloth on the table to prevent small parts from rolling off and getting lost.
- 💡 Check the polarity of the new battery before installation.
- 💡 Do not touch the board contacts with your fingers, as oil from the skin can oxidize the connections.
Step-by-step instructions for a folding key
A folding key is the most common option for basic configurations Nissan Note. To get to the battery, you must first remove the metal blade. To do this, find a small locking button at the end of the key, press it and pull the blade out until it stops. Carefully insert a flat-head screwdriver into the gap formed between the plastic body and the base of the blade.
By turning the screwdriver like a lever, you will see how the body begins to separate into two halves. Movements should be smooth, without sudden jerks, so as not to damage the internal latches. After the case is opened, you will see the board with the battery installed. Usually the battery is held in a special seat with a metal clip, which must be slightly bent to remove the old element.
⚠️ Attention: When removing the old battery, do not touch the contacts of the board with metal objects, so as not to cause a short circuit, which could damage the immobilizer chip.
Installing a new battery is done in the reverse order. Pay attention to the markings: the side with the positive pole (“plus”, usually with inscriptions) should look up, that is, towards the housing cover. After installation, check whether the element is securely fixed, and only then proceed to fastening the body halves. The click when closing should be clear and uniform around the entire perimeter.
Common mistakes when opening a folding key
If you applied too much force, the plastic latches could crack. In this case, the body will hold on to them weakly, and over time it may fall apart on its own. It is recommended to carefully glue the joints with superglue, but do not use glue inside the case.
Features of replacement in a smart key (Intelligent Key)
Smart key Nissan Note has a more complex design and does not have a retractable blade. Opening such a remote control requires performing a specific sequence of actions. First, find a small mechanical emergency key on the side of the key, which is hidden in the case. Pull it out by pressing the latch and use it as a lever to separate the back cover.
Insert the emergency blade into the specially provided recess at the end of the key and turn it counterclockwise. The lid should snap off. If you use a screwdriver, proceed with extreme caution as the smart key body is made of more fragile plastic. Inside you will see the same battery CR2032, but it can be fixed differently - sometimes you just need to pry its edge with a needle or thin object.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Item type | CR2032 | Lithium, 3V |
| Diameter | 20 mm | Standard size |
| Thickness | 3.2 mm | Critical for landing |
| Service life | 1-2 years | Depends on climate |
| Polarity | Plus up | Be sure to check |
After replacing the battery in the smart key, a synchronization procedure with the vehicle may be required, especially if the battery was completely discharged. To do this, you need to get into the car, close all the doors and press the button LOCK on the door and then hold the button UNLOCK on the key for 10 seconds. This will allow the vehicle's electronics to re-recognize the signal.
- Folding key with blade
- Smart Key
- Key fob without blade
- I don't know for sure
Checking operation and synchronization
After installing a new battery, do not immediately consider the job done. You need to make sure that the key functions correctly. Press any button on the remote control and look at the indicator LED (if there is one) - it should blink. Approach the car and try to open the doors using the buttons on the key. If there is no signal, check the polarity of the element installation.
In some cases, especially when the old element is completely discharged, the system may temporarily “forget” the key code. In such situations, a binding procedure is required, which is described in the service documentation. Usually this is sequential pressing of buttons in a certain rhythm or using a diagnostic scanner if the standard method does not work. However, most often replacing the battery restores operation instantly.
If the key does not respond immediately after replacement, check the polarity and contacts. In rare cases, full synchronization with the vehicle control unit is required.
Also pay attention to how the keyless entry system (if you have one) works. Bring the key to the door and try to open it without pressing the buttons. If the system does not recognize the key, there may be a problem not only with the battery, but also with the antenna or receiver in the car. But in 95% of cases, replacement with a fresh element CR2032 solves the problem completely.
⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the battery, the light on the key flashes, but the car does not respond, the problem may be with the car's receiving antenna or door control unit, and not with the remote control.
Common mistakes and their consequences
Many owners make the same mistake of installing a battery with the wrong polarity. Not only will this prevent the key from working, but it can also cause the contacts to oxidize or short circuit if you try to get it to function for too long. Always look carefully at the markings inside the compartment: plus (+) is usually at the top, minus (-) at the bottom.
Another common problem is the use of cheap fakes. Batteries from unknown brands are often oversized or undervolted. As a result, the key may work unstable: sometimes it opens the car, but sometimes it doesn’t. Also, such elements can leak, which will lead to corrosion of the tracks on the board, the restoration of which will require serious repairs or replacement of the entire remote control.
- ❌ Do not use expired batteries.
- ❌ Do not leave the old element in the key for a long time after discharge.
- ❌ Do not attempt to charge lithium batteries - this may cause an explosion.
Sometimes owners try to replace the battery without removing it from the case, simply by prying it off with a screwdriver. This may cause the plastic retainer to break, leaving the new battery loose inside. This will break the contact and cause the key to stop working even when the cell is fully charged. Therefore, always completely disassemble the case for a quality replacement.
What to do if the battery connector is oxidized?
If you notice a white or green coating on the contacts, gently clean them with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Once dry, you can treat the contacts with a special contact preservative, but do not use oil or WD-40 as they may damage the electrical contact.
Where to buy a high-quality battery and the price issue
You can replace the battery at any electronics store, auto parts store, or even at a gas station. However for Nissan Note It is better to choose specialized points where they guarantee the originality of the products. Cost of a quality battery CR2032 varies between 100-300 rubles, depending on the brand. Buying online may be cheaper, but there is a risk of receiving a counterfeit or expired product.
The most reliable manufacturers are considered Panasonic, Varta, Duracell and Maxell. These brands guarantee stable voltage and long service life even in extreme conditions. Avoid buying batteries at metro kiosks without packaging, as they often sell stale goods or outright fakes that can run out in a week.
When purchasing a battery online, always check the manufacturing date on the packaging. If the manufacturing date is more than a year ago, it is better to refrain from purchasing, since lithium has a self-discharge property.
It is also important to take into account that in some trim levels Nissan Note Not only the main key is used, but also an additional key fob. If you have a spare key, check the condition of the battery as well to avoid a situation where both remote controls fail at the same time at the most inopportune moment. This is especially true for family cars, where keys are often passed between drivers.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
What kind of battery is in the 2018 Nissan Note key?
The keys for the 2018 Nissan Note, like most other models, use a standard CR2032 lithium battery. This is a universal battery that is suitable for both folding keys and smart keys.
Can I use a rechargeable battery instead of a regular one?
It is not recommended to use rechargeable batteries (batteries) with a voltage of 1.2V. The key electronics are designed for 3V, and at low voltage the key may work unstable or not turn on at all. Use only CR2032 lithium batteries.
What should I do if the key stops working after replacing the battery?
First check the polarity of the element installation. If everything is correct, try synchronizing the key with the car by pressing the buttons in a certain sequence. If this doesn't help, there may be a problem with the key circuit board or the car's antenna.
How long does it take to replace a battery?
The replacement process takes from 2 to 5 minutes. You just need to carefully open the case, replace the element and close it back. This is one of the simplest car maintenance procedures.
Is it possible to open the car without a key if the battery is dead?
Yes, the Nissan Note has a mechanical way to open the door. The key contains an emergency key blade that can be used to open the driver's door through the mechanical lock. After this, you need to start the engine by placing the key on the start/stop panel.