Just like any component in your vehicle, the battery in your Dodge key fob will eventually need replacing. A dead or dying key fob battery can be a major inconvenience, leaving you unable to remotely lock or unlock your doors, or even start your vehicle if you have a push-button start system. Fortunately, changing your Dodge Key Fob Battery is a straightforward process that you can easily handle yourself at home. This guide will walk you through the steps for replacing the battery in most Dodge key fobs, ensuring you can get back to conveniently accessing your vehicle.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these simple tools:
- New Battery: You’ll typically need a CR2032 battery. Check your owner’s manual or the old battery for the exact type. These batteries are widely available at most drugstores, supermarkets, auto parts stores, and online retailers.
- Small Flathead Screwdriver or Pry Tool: This will be used to open the key fob casing. A small, plastic pry tool is ideal to minimize the risk of scratching the fob.
- Small Phillips Head Screwdriver (Potentially): Some older Dodge key fobs may have a small screw holding the casing together.
Replacing the Battery in Modern Dodge Key Fobs (No Dashboard Insertion)
This type of key fob is common in newer Dodge vehicles and doesn’t require insertion into the dashboard to start the car. Here’s how to change the battery:
Step 1: Locate and Release the Emergency Key
On the back of your key fob, you should find a small lever or button. Slide or press this to release the mechanical emergency key. Pull the key out and set it aside in a safe place.
Alt text: Close-up of the back of a Dodge key fob showing the lever used to release the emergency key.
Step 2: Prepare to Open the Key Fob Casing
Now that the emergency key is removed, look at the bottom of the key fob, where the key was just located. You’ll see a small slot or seam line. This is where you’ll insert your flathead screwdriver or pry tool to open the casing.
Step 3: Gently Pry Open the Key Fob
Carefully insert the tip of your flathead screwdriver or pry tool into the slot and gently twist or pry. The two halves of the key fob should begin to separate. Work your way around the seam if necessary, applying gentle pressure until the casing pops open. Avoid using excessive force, as you could damage the plastic.
Alt text: Using a flathead screwdriver to carefully split open the casing of a Dodge key fob to access the battery compartment.
Step 4: Access and Remove the Old Battery
Once the key fob is open, you’ll see the internal electronics and the battery. The battery is usually a small, round, silver disc. Take note of the battery’s orientation, specifically which side is facing up (positive side marked with “+”). Use your flathead screwdriver or pry tool to gently slide the old battery out of its housing.
Step 5: Install the New Battery
Take your new CR2032 battery and slide it into the battery compartment, ensuring the positive (+) side is facing the same direction as the old battery was. If you’re unsure, look for “+” markings in the battery compartment as a guide.
Step 6: Reassemble the Key Fob
Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly back together until they click securely into place. Ensure there are no gaps and the casing is fully closed. Finally, slide the emergency key back into its slot until it clicks and locks.
Replacing the Battery in Older Dodge Key Fobs (Dashboard Insertion)
Some older Dodge models use a key fob that needs to be inserted into the dashboard to start the vehicle. The battery replacement process is slightly different for these fobs:
Step 1: Release the Emergency Key
Just as with the modern fob, begin by locating the lever or button on the back of the key fob to release and remove the emergency key. Set it aside.
Step 2: Locate and Remove the Screw (If Applicable)
Flip the key fob over so the buttons are facing down. Examine the back casing for a small Phillips head screw, usually located near the top rounded end of the fob. If you see a screw, use your small Phillips head screwdriver to carefully remove it. Place the screw in a safe place so you don’t lose it.
Alt text: Unscrewing a small Phillips head screw from the back of an older style Dodge key fob before opening the casing.
Step 3: Pry Open the Key Fob Casing
With the screw removed (if there was one), use your flathead screwdriver or pry tool to gently separate the two halves of the key fob casing. Insert the tool into the seam and gently pry until the case begins to open. Work around the seam as needed until the fob is open.
Step 4: Access and Replace the Battery
Once open, you may see an inner piece containing the electronics and battery. Carefully lift this inner piece out and flip it over to access the battery compartment. Note the orientation of the old battery before using your tool to slide it out. Install the new CR2032 battery, ensuring the positive (+) side is correctly oriented.
Step 5: Reassemble the Key Fob
Carefully place the inner piece back into the key fob casing. Align the two halves of the casing and press them firmly together until they snap closed. If you removed a screw, replace it and tighten it gently. Finally, reinsert the emergency key until it locks into place.
Choosing the Right Replacement Battery
The most common battery type for Dodge key fobs is the CR2032 3V lithium coin battery. However, it’s always best to double-check your owner’s manual or examine the old battery to confirm the correct type. You can purchase CR2032 batteries at many locations, including:
- Auto parts stores (like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, O’Reilly Auto Parts)
- Drugstores (like Walgreens, CVS)
- Supermarkets
- Big box retailers (like Walmart, Target)
- Online retailers (like Amazon)
Tips and Troubleshooting
- Key Fob Still Not Working? If your key fob doesn’t work after replacing the battery, double-check that you installed the battery with the correct polarity (+ side up). Also, ensure the battery is correctly seated in the compartment and making good contact. If it still doesn’t work, you may need to consult your Dodge owner’s manual for key fob reprogramming instructions or visit a dealership.
- Battery Disposal: Dispose of the old lithium battery properly at a designated battery recycling location. Do not simply throw it in the trash.
- Preventative Maintenance: Consider replacing your key fob battery every 2-3 years, or sooner if you notice the range decreasing or the fob becoming less responsive.
Replacing your Dodge key fob battery is a simple and cost-effective way to maintain your vehicle’s convenience features. By following these steps, you can avoid a trip to the dealership and keep your key fob working reliably.
