These instructions apply to the Mitsubishi Outlander Mk2 (CW) 2006-2012.
For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
Short answer: if the keyless (KOS) fob battery is dead on your Mitsubishi Outlander CW (2006–2012), you can still get in and start: use the emergency key blade hidden in the fob to unlock the door, then hold the fob against the START button while you press it so the car can read the key at close range.
Why the Fob Stops Working
On Keyless Operating System (KOS) cars, a flat fob battery means the doors won’t respond to the handle and the START button won’t recognise the key from a distance. The fob still contains a transponder the car can read up close, and a mechanical key blade for the doors — so you are not stranded.
Unlock the Car
- Slide out the emergency key blade from the keyless fob (release the catch and pull it free).
- Use the blade in the driver’s door lock to unlock the car.
- The alarm may sound — it stops once the car recognises the key at the next step.
Start the Engine With a Dead Fob
- Get in with the fob. Press the brake as normal.
- Hold the keyless fob directly against the START/STOP button (or the marked backup reader area) so the transponder is read.
- With the fob held there, press the START button — the engine starts.
- Replace the fob battery (CR2032) soon so keyless operation works normally again.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I start my Outlander if the key fob battery is dead?
Unlock with the emergency key blade, then hold the fob against the START button while you press it, so the car reads the key at close range.
Where is the emergency key in the fob?
It’s a metal blade inside the keyless fob — release the catch and slide it out. Use it in the driver’s door lock.
The alarm went off when I used the key blade — is that normal?
Yes. Unlocking mechanically can trigger the alarm; it stops once the car recognises the fob as you start.
What battery does the Outlander keyless fob take?
A CR2032 3V coin cell. It’s an easy swap and needs no re-coding — see our key-fob battery guide.
If a warning light stayed on afterwards, you can check what it means on our sister site autodtcs.com.
Independent guide — not affiliated with Mitsubishi. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions. Read our full disclaimer.