It’s an inevitable part of car ownership: the day your Acura key fob battery starts to weaken. While it might seem like a trip to the dealership is in order, changing your Acura key fob battery is a surprisingly simple task you can easily do yourself. Proactively replacing your key fob battery is a smart piece of preventative maintenance, ensuring you’re never caught out by a dead fob at an inconvenient moment.
Identifying Your Acura Key Fob Battery Type
Most Acura key fobs utilize a CR2032 3-volt lithium coin cell battery. This type of battery is widely available at most drug stores, grocery stores, and online retailers. It’s always a good idea to double-check your owner’s manual to confirm the exact battery type for your specific Acura model and key fob, but CR2032 is the most common. For this guide, we’ll assume you’re working with a standard Acura key fob that uses this battery.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Acura Key Fob Battery
Changing your Acura key fob battery is a straightforward process that requires no special tools. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Remove the Mechanical Key
Locate the small release button on your Acura key fob. Press and hold this button while gently pulling out the mechanical key. Set the mechanical key aside in a safe place.
Step 2: Open the Key Fob Casing
With the mechanical key removed, you’ll notice a small slot or seam where the two halves of the key fob casing meet. Use a coin (like a penny or a dime) or a small flathead screwdriver to carefully pry open the casing at this seam. Insert the edge of the coin or screwdriver into the slot and gently twist to separate the two halves of the fob. Take your time and avoid using excessive force to prevent damaging the plastic casing.
Step 3: Battery Replacement
Once the key fob is open, you’ll see the battery compartment. Note the orientation of the old battery (+ and – sides). Carefully remove the old battery. You can typically do this by gently prying it out with your fingertip or the edge of a small tool if needed. Insert the new CR2032 battery, ensuring the polarity (+ and – sides) matches the markings in the battery compartment. The positive (+) side of the battery should usually face upwards.
Step 4: Reassemble the Key Fob
Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob casing back together until they are securely closed. Ensure there are no gaps and the casing is firmly sealed. Finally, slide the mechanical key back into its slot until it clicks into place.
Understanding Battery Voltage and Lifespan
Key fob batteries, like all batteries, degrade over time, even when not in use. The voltage of a new CR2032 battery is typically around 3.2 to 3.3 volts. A battery with a voltage reading of around 2.9 volts is still functional but is nearing the end of its lifespan. While your Acura key fob battery might last for several years, proactive replacement every 2-3 years is a good practice to avoid unexpected failure. Factors like usage frequency and environmental conditions can also affect battery life.
Conclusion
Changing your Acura key fob battery is a quick, easy, and cost-effective DIY task. By following these simple steps, you can ensure your key fob remains reliable and avoid the inconvenience of a dead battery. Regularly replacing your key fob battery is a small investment in peace of mind and ensures you’re always ready to unlock and start your Acura without hassle.
