Are you struggling to lock or unlock your Audi? Noticed a key symbol with a battery icon on your dashboard? It’s highly likely your Audi key fob battery is running low and needs replacing. Don’t worry, replacing your Audi key fob battery is a straightforward process you can often handle yourself. As experts at keyfobx.com, we’re here to guide you through each step, ensuring you can get back on the road with a fully functional key fob.
While Audi dealerships like Audi Fletcher Jones offer battery replacement services, this guide empowers you to perform an audi key fob battery replacement at home, saving you time and money. We’ll cover the most common types of Audi key fobs, providing detailed instructions for each.
Order Parts for Audi Key Fob Battery Replacement
Identifying Your Audi Key Fob Type
Before you begin, it’s crucial to identify the type of Audi key fob you have. Audi has used several designs over the years, each with a slightly different battery replacement procedure. Here are the main types we’ll cover:
- Older Audi Flip Key Fob: Typically found in older Audi models, this fob features a physical key that flips out.
- Newer Audi Flip Key Fob: Similar to the older version but with a slightly different internal mechanism and battery type, usually found in more recent models.
- Audi Smart Keyless Entry Remote: A more modern design, often referred to as a “smart key” or “keyless entry remote,” allowing for keyless entry and start.
If you’re unsure which type you have, compare your key fob to the descriptions and images below. Consulting your Audi owner’s manual is also a helpful resource for identifying your specific key fob type and battery information.
Tools You’ll Need
Fortunately, you won’t need specialized tools for an audi key fob battery replacement. For most Audi key fobs, you’ll only need:
- Small Flathead Screwdriver: For gently prying open the key fob casing. Opt for a small, jewelry-sized screwdriver to avoid damage.
- New Battery: The correct type of battery for your key fob (we’ll specify these for each type below). Common types are CR1620 and CR2032.
- Soft Cloth or Microfiber Towel: To protect the key fob surface from scratches during the process.
Audi Flip Key Fob Battery Replacement (Older Models)
This type of key fob is recognizable by its flip-out physical key and generally thicker design.
Alt text: An older style Audi flip key fob, closed, illustrating the type requiring two 1620 batteries for replacement.
Battery Type: CR1620 (x2)
Steps:
- Prepare Your Workspace: Lay down a soft cloth to protect your key fob.
- Open the Flip Key: Flip out the metal key blade.
- Separate the Fob Halves: Using your small flathead screwdriver, carefully insert the tip into the seam running along the key fob’s edge. Gently twist the screwdriver to separate the two halves of the key fob casing. Work your way around the seam until the case splits open.
- Locate the Battery Cover: Identify the battery compartment cover on the half of the key fob without the flip key mechanism.
- Open the Battery Cover: Again using your flathead screwdriver, gently pry open the battery cover. There might be a small notch to help you get started.
- Remove Old Batteries: Take out the old 1620 batteries. Note the orientation (usually positive side up).
- Install New Batteries: Insert two new CR1620 batteries in the same orientation as the old ones.
- Reassemble the Battery Cover: Snap the battery cover back into place, ensuring it’s securely closed.
- Reassemble the Fob Halves: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly together until they snap back into place.
Audi Flip Key Fob Battery Replacement (Newer Models)
Newer flip key fobs often have a sleeker design and use a different battery type compared to older models.
Alt text: A newer style Audi flip key fob, open to show the battery compartment, indicating the CR2032 battery type used for replacement.
Battery Type: CR2032
Steps:
- Flip Out the Metal Key: Press the key release button to flip out the metal emergency key blade.
- Locate the Notch: With the metal key flipped out, look for a small notch inside the key compartment.
- Pry Open the Battery Cover: Insert the small flathead screwdriver into the notch and gently twist to pop open the battery cover.
- Remove the Cover: Once popped open, gently pry the cover away from the back of the fob, near the keyring loop.
- Replace the Battery: Remove the old CR2032 battery and replace it with a new one, ensuring the positive (+) side faces upwards.
- Reattach the Cover: Carefully align the plastic notches of the battery cover and gently press it back onto the key fob until it clicks securely into place.
Audi Smart Keyless Entry Remote Battery Replacement
The smart key, or keyless entry remote, is characterized by its keyless entry and start capabilities. It usually has buttons on the side and a more rounded design.
Alt text: An Audi smart keyless entry remote, disassembled to show the internal components and battery compartment for a CR2032 battery replacement.
Battery Type: CR2032
Steps:
- Remove the Metal Key Blade: Locate the release button (usually a small slider or button) that allows you to remove the metal emergency key blade from the smart key fob.
- Find the Notch: Look for a small notch in the area where the metal key blade was removed.
- Pry Open the Fob Shell: Insert your flathead screwdriver into the notch at an angle, pointing towards the center of the key fob.
- Rotate to Open: Carefully rotate the screwdriver to gently pop open the key fob shell. The casing should separate into two halves.
- Replace the Battery: Remove the old CR2032 battery and insert a new one, again ensuring the positive (+) side is facing upwards.
- Snap the Cover Back: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob shell and press them together until they snap securely closed.
What To Do If Your Audi Key Isn’t Recognized After Battery Replacement
In rare cases, your Audi may not immediately recognize the key fob after a battery replacement. This might require a simple re-initialization process. Here’s a quick troubleshooting step:
- Manual Door Lock: Insert the metal key blade into the driver’s side door lock.
- Manual Lock/Unlock: Manually lock and then unlock the door using the key.
- Unlock Button: Remove the key from the door and press the “unlock” button on your key fob.
This process often resynchronizes the key fob with your Audi’s system. If you continue to experience issues, it’s best to consult with Audi service professionals.
Schedule Audi Key Service in Costa Mesa, CA
Audi Key Fob Battery Replacement Cost: DIY vs. Professional Service
The cost of an Audi Key Fob Replacement Battery itself is minimal. CR1620 and CR2032 batteries are widely available at drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers for around $5 to $10 each, sometimes less if bought in multi-packs.
Opting for a DIY audi key fob battery replacement is the most cost-effective solution. You only pay for the battery itself. However, if you prefer professional assistance, Audi dealerships or qualified mechanics can perform the replacement for you. Service costs will vary but generally include labor charges in addition to the battery cost. For those who are not comfortable with DIY or prefer the convenience of professional service, dealership service is a viable option.
Order Parts for Audi Key Fob Battery Replacement
Get Back to Smooth Operation
Replacing your audi key fob battery is usually a quick and easy task. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can restore full functionality to your Audi key fob and avoid the inconvenience of a dead battery. For more car key fob solutions and expert advice, remember to visit keyfobx.com – your trusted resource for key fob expertise.
