Is your 2017 Nissan Sentra key fob refusing to unlock your doors or start your engine? A dead battery is the most likely culprit. Fortunately, replacing the battery in your Nissan Sentra key fob is a quick and easy task you can handle yourself in just a few minutes. No need for a trip to the dealership or a costly service appointment! This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you can get back on the road with a functioning key fob in no time.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these simple tools:
- A new CR2032 3V battery: This is the standard battery size for most Nissan key fobs, including the 2017 Sentra. You can find these at most drugstores, grocery stores, and online retailers for a few dollars.
- A small flathead screwdriver: This will be used to gently open the key fob casing.
- Gloves (optional): While not essential, wearing latex or non-latex gloves can help keep the key fob internals clean and free from fingerprints.
Step-by-Step Battery Replacement Guide
Follow these easy steps to replace the dead battery in your 2017 Nissan Sentra key fob:
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Locate the Emergency Key and Release: Turn your Nissan Sentra key fob over to the back side. You’ll see a small slider or button. This release mechanism is for the emergency mechanical key. Slide or press the release to unlock and remove the emergency key from the bottom of the fob.
Nissan key fob back with emergency key release slider -
Find the Notch to Open the Fob: Once the emergency key is removed, look at the top section of the key fob where the key was just removed. You’ll notice a small notch or slot along the seam where the front and back halves of the fob meet. This is where you’ll insert your flathead screwdriver.
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Carefully Pry Open the Key Fob: Insert the tip of your small flathead screwdriver into the notch you located. Gently twist the screwdriver. This should begin to separate the two halves of the key fob casing. Don’t force it; apply steady, gentle pressure until the case pops open. Work your way around the seam if needed to fully separate the two halves.
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Identify and Remove the Old Battery: With the key fob open, you’ll see the internal components and the round, silver CR2032 battery. It’s usually held in place by small clips. Use your flathead screwdriver to carefully and gently pry the old battery out of its housing. Note the orientation of the battery – usually, the positive (+) side is facing down.
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Install the New CR2032 Battery: Take your new CR2032 battery and insert it into the battery compartment. Ensure the positive (+) side of the battery is facing down, matching the orientation of the old battery you just removed. Press down gently until the new battery clicks securely into place.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully align the two halves of the Nissan Sentra key fob casing back together. Press them firmly until they snap back into place. You should hear a click sound indicating that the case is securely closed.
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Replace the Emergency Key: Slide the emergency mechanical key back into its slot at the bottom of the key fob until it clicks and locks into position.
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Test Your Key Fob: Press the buttons on your key fob to test if it’s working. Try unlocking your 2017 Nissan Sentra remotely. The doors should unlock, and the panic button should activate the alarm. If everything works as expected, you’ve successfully replaced your key fob battery!
Still Having Issues?
If you’ve replaced the battery and your 2017 Nissan Sentra key fob is still not functioning correctly, there might be another issue. While battery replacement solves most common key fob problems, more complex issues could involve the key fob itself or your vehicle’s receiver.
If you’re uncomfortable performing this DIY fix or continue to experience problems, the service professionals at your local Nissan dealership, like Palm Springs Nissan, are always ready to assist. You can easily schedule a service appointment to have your key fob professionally checked and ensure your 2017 Nissan Sentra is functioning perfectly. Don’t forget to check for service specials that might be available to help you save on your visit!
