Citroen Berlingo Key Fob Troubleshooting
Citroen's Berlingo Multispace occupies a utilitarian space in the people carrier market. Its sliding rear doors allow it to be squeezed into parking bays and its durable cabin is more resistant to crashing than the most expensive rivals.
If your key fob was submerged in soapy water or saltwater It may not work in the future, even after replacing the battery and programming. This is because the internal chip has been damaged due to exposure to water.
Water Damage
Shake your key fob to get rid of as much water as you can. Lay it down with the button facing down and let it drain for a couple of minutes while you wipe down the inside with a soft cloth. G28 will prevent any condensation from causing damage to your electronic chip.
If the dashboard warning light that looks like a car and has the key symbol illuminates on your Mk 2 or Mk 3 Citroen Berlingo then it could indicate an immobilizer issue. This is a security feature that is installed in the vehicle to stop thieves from hotwiring it. If this is the case, then you should visit an Citroen dealer or a trained mechanic in order to resolve the problem.
A constant warning light could indicate that the power-assisted steering is not working properly. If this is the case then you must stop the vehicle and examine the temperature and pressure of your oil before starting it. If the issue continues and you are unable to resolve it, visit a Citroen dealer or a qualified mechanic to resolve the problem.
Dead Battery
A dead battery for your coin is the most common reason for your key fob not to work in your Berlingo. The button cell battery that is in the key is very easy to replace, however you must ensure that you select the correct voltage size and type of battery. An uncompatible battery could damage the circuit board. A dead coin battery can also disable the anti-theft system. This is a security function that stops the engine from starting without a physical key.
If the key fob is still not responding to the lock button after replacing the battery, it could be an incompatible receiver module that is not communicating with the other modules in your car. A scanner for OBDII can detect the issue.
If the key fob isn't responding, then you can try reprogramming the key fob. To do this, follow the instructions in the owner's manual. It should work as expected once it is reset to its original program.
Diagnostics of a fault
Citroen Berlingo owners are generally satisfied with the vehicle's reliability. As with all vehicles there are a few issues that can arise. A key fob that is not working is one of the most frequent issues. This is an easy issue to determine and can be fixed in a matter of minutes. Other problems could be a worn button, water damage to the electronic chip or the signal being distorted, or a remote system receiver module with a fault.
It is important to keep in mind that not all key fob batteries are created in the same way. Some batteries are made of inferior materials that could damage your remote or other electronic components. When replacing the battery, ensure you use a battery that is of the same voltage and type as the original. Also, ensure the new battery is properly fitted. When inserting the battery into the slot, make sure the positive (+) face of the battery is facing upwards.
If you notice an exclamation mark in the shape of a triangle on your dashboard, it is a sign that there is a problem with the vehicle's electric power-assisted driver. If the warning light is illuminated when driving, it is advised to seek help from a qualified mechanic or Citroen Berlingo (incl Multispace) dealership.
Radio Interference
Radio interference could be the reason of your key fob not working suddenly. This issue can be caused by devices that operate on the same frequency as a remote control. For instance, certain wireless security systems and LED lights can interfere with RF signals. Consider moving these devices to another location if you have them in your home.
In addition to devices that operate on the same frequency, there are also environmental factors that could affect the signal of a car's key fob. For instance, metal objects could affect the signal's strength. Rainy weather can also alter the antenna of the fob, which results in a weaker radio signal. In some cases, even when the fob is near to the vehicle it might not respond to radio signals.
To ensure that your key fob is functioning properly examine the battery. It must be in good working order and the contacts must be free of corrosion. A damaged connection is the main reason the fob's keypad does not respond to radio signals coming from a vehicle. A drained battery can cause the fob to malfunction. If you replace the battery, but the issue persists, it's possible that the antenna is damaged. A locksmith can inspect the keyfob and fix it.