Keyfob battery change

[NickPicks]

I took my keyfob apart last night to check what sort of batteries I need to buy for it, and now it doesn't work.

I'm using the spare key for now.

I've found the instructions here for re-coding the keys, but I didn't think it should lose its coding just by having the batteries removed for a few minutes.

It seems that I can recode the keys by using the ignition key and door lock method, or using vag-com (I presume for vag-com, I'd need the SKC which I don't have)

So, should the key lose its coding just by having the battery removed for the time it took me to read the number CR1620 off the battery?

Also, any advice on whether it's possible for me to mess up the coding on the other key while I'm following Peter D's instructions for the recoding method?

Oh, it's a 2001 A6 Avant 2.4 AML

[KiwiA6]

Hi,
I have never had a key lose it's code when changing the battery, so unless you had it out for a really long time, something is up.

Silly question, but you have put the battery back in the right way I assume?

[NickPicks]

I did. I probably had it out for about 3-4 minutes.

In the owner's manual, I found that if the remote won't work after a battery change, you need to do this:

Press the button on the remote.
Within 30 seconds, use the key to unlock and lock the driver's door.


So the key didn't need matching, but did need reminding of its code.
It all works fine now.