Have you ever pressed the unlock button on your Nissan key fob and been met with silence? A dead key fob battery is a common inconvenience, but thankfully, it’s an easy fix. If you’re wondering about the battery size for your Nissan key fob, you’ve come to the right place. This guide from the auto experts at keyfobx.com will walk you through everything you need to know to get your Nissan key fob working again, focusing on finding the correct battery and replacing it yourself.
Even with a dead battery, your Nissan is still accessible and drivable. Nissan thoughtfully designed their Intelligent Key fobs with a mechanical backup, ensuring you’re never truly locked out. Let’s first cover how to get into your Nissan and start it with a lifeless key fob, then we’ll dive into identifying the correct battery size and replacing it.
Getting Into Your Nissan When the Key Fob Battery Dies
Don’t panic if your Nissan key fob is unresponsive. You can still easily enter and operate your vehicle. Here’s how to use the emergency key located within your Nissan Intelligent Key fob:
- Locate the Emergency Key: On the back of your key fob, find the small release latch or button. Press and hold it to detach the mechanical emergency key, which slides out from the bottom of the fob.
- Unlock Your Nissan Manually: Insert the emergency key into the driver’s side door lock and turn it to unlock your vehicle, just like a traditional key.
- Starting Your Nissan: Once inside, starting your Nissan depends on whether you have a key fob port or a push-button start:
- With a Key Fob Port: If your Nissan has a designated key fob port (often located on the steering column or dashboard), insert the key fob into the port. Then, press the brake pedal or clutch and push the START/STOP button.
- Without a Key Fob Port (Push-Button Start): If there’s no key fob port, step on the brake pedal or clutch and firmly press the Nissan key fob directly against the START/STOP ignition button.
These steps will allow you to start your Nissan even with a completely dead key fob battery, giving you the time to address the battery replacement.
Identifying the Correct Battery Size for Your Nissan Key Fob
Now, let’s talk about the battery size for your Nissan key fob. While “size” might refer to physical dimensions, in the context of button cell batteries like those in key fobs, it primarily refers to the battery type or model number. Nissan key fobs typically use coin cell batteries, and the most common types are CR2025 and CR2032. These are both 3V lithium batteries, but they differ slightly in thickness, with the CR2032 being a bit thicker and having a slightly higher capacity.
To determine the exact battery size your Nissan key fob requires, there are a couple of reliable methods:
- Check Your Owner’s Manual: The most definitive source is your Nissan owner’s manual. Look in the index or the section on keys and remote entry. It should specify the exact battery type needed for your key fob.
- Open Your Key Fob and Inspect the Old Battery: This is a foolproof method. Follow the battery replacement steps below to carefully open your key fob. Once open, remove the old battery. You’ll find the battery type (e.g., CR2025 or CR2032) clearly printed on the battery itself.
Knowing the correct battery size (type) ensures you purchase the right replacement for seamless functionality. You can find these batteries at most drugstores, hardware stores, department stores, and online retailers.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Nissan Key Fob Battery
Replacing your Nissan key fob battery is a straightforward DIY task. Here’s a 7-step guide to get you through it:
- Remove the Emergency Key: Flip your Nissan key fob over and locate the release button or latch. Press it to detach and remove the emergency mechanical key.
- Pry Open the Key Fob: Carefully inspect the key fob casing for a small notch or seam, usually located along the side. Insert a small flathead screwdriver or a similar thin, flat tool into this notch. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the key fob casing. Be patient and avoid applying excessive force to prevent damage.
- Remove the Old Battery: Once the key fob is open, you’ll see the battery. Note the orientation of the old battery (+ side up or down) before removing it. You can often gently pry it out with your fingertip or the same small tool.
- Insert the New Battery: Take your new battery (CR2025 or CR2032, as identified earlier) and insert it into the battery compartment. Ensure the battery is placed in the correct orientation, matching the way the old battery was positioned (+ side should usually be facing up). Press down firmly to ensure it’s securely seated.
- Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly back together until they snap or click securely into place.
- Replace the Emergency Key: Slide the emergency mechanical key back into its slot in the key fob until it clicks and is firmly secured.
- Test Your Key Fob: Press the buttons on your key fob to test if it’s working. The doors should lock and unlock, and the panic button should function if your key fob has one.
With these simple steps, you’ve successfully replaced your Nissan key fob battery and saved yourself a trip to the dealership for a minor issue!
What Battery Size Does My Nissan Key Fob Need? (Quick Guide)
To quickly summarize, here’s a general guideline for Nissan key fob battery sizes:
- Most Common Battery Sizes: CR2025 and CR2032 (3V Lithium)
- How to Find Your Specific Size:
- Best Method: Check your Nissan Owner’s Manual.
- Reliable Method: Open your key fob and read the type printed on the old battery.
While CR2025 and CR2032 are the most frequent, it’s always best to confirm the exact type for your specific Nissan model and year to ensure optimal performance.
When to Consider Professional Help
While battery replacement is easy, some key fob issues require professional attention.
- Key Fob Reprogramming: If you replace the entire key fob or are experiencing issues beyond battery replacement, reprogramming might be necessary. This process often requires specialized tools and dealership expertise. Nissan recommends visiting a certified dealership for key fob reprogramming.
- Persistent Key Fob Issues: If you’ve replaced the battery and your key fob still isn’t working correctly, there might be a more complex issue with the key fob itself or your vehicle’s receiver. In such cases, consulting with Nissan service professionals is advisable.
For simple battery changes, you’re all set with this guide. But for more complex problems, the experts at Tom Wood Auto Group or your local Nissan dealer are ready to assist.
Conclusion
Understanding the battery size for your Nissan key fob and knowing how to replace it empowers you to handle a common car ownership hiccup quickly and efficiently. By identifying the correct battery type (usually CR2025 or CR2032) and following our simple steps, you can keep your Nissan key fob functioning perfectly. Remember to check your owner’s manual or the old battery for the most accurate battery size information. And if you ever need further assistance with your Nissan, don’t hesitate to schedule service with a trusted Nissan service center.
