I’m pleased my article helped you! Nothing in this article would cause any of the other problems you’ve listed.

I suggest getting a free vehicle battery test done at a garage or your local Halfords. Even though it was only replaced a short while ago it may have sustained damage due to not being used for extended periods of time.

Many thanks , Autolox.

I read the comment about when unlocking the car and lights flashing 9 times. Never paid attention to this although I did notice this happening in my case. So, I replaced the battery in the key Fob today, and there you have it, lights now flash once, gap, then 3 times. Great advice and thank you.

On another the point, could this have had something to do with my battery currently struggling to start my car first thing in the morning? Battery was bought just over two years ago just before lockdown, and yes, the car has not been used much over that period – I’m retired. Also, ESP light stays on and message in the right hand dial says ESP, take to workshop. Drive for a couple of hundred yards, pull over, switch off, restart with full battery power and ESP light goes off. No problem starting for the rest of the day.

Next morning, same old groan, …..groan, …..groan and just when you think battery is about to say “Bye for now”, the car miraculously starts. Car is a 2004 Smart Forfour Passion 1.5 diesel 90HP, 130,000 miles.

By the way, could this perhaps be injectors?

Your comment wold be appreciated, and thank you in anticipation.

Hi Anna,

Sorry, we don’t cover your area. We are Kent based.

Hi Alan,

If the key battery doesn’t work then unfortunately you will have to get your keys reprogrammed by an auto locksmith.

Hi Paul,

Yes we can program your spare key for you – did you purchase this from the main dealers?

Price for this service is £75 (please check our areas covered page).

Many thanks – Autolox – 07776 222 722.