Is your car key fob starting to feel a little unresponsive? Are you finding yourself pressing the unlock button multiple times to get a reaction? It might not be your car playing hard to get; it’s likely time for a car key fob battery replacement.
For many, the thought of dealing with car key fobs brings a vision of dealership service departments and unexpected costs. While professional help is always an option, especially at trusted locations like Interstate All Battery Center, replacing your car key fob battery is often a straightforward task you can easily handle yourself. In fact, it’s considerably less complicated than changing your car battery. With just a few common tools and a little patience, you can breathe new life into your key fob and avoid unnecessary expenses.
Don’t let a dead key fob battery leave you stranded or frustrated. This guide will walk you through the simple steps to replace your car key fob battery and get you back to effortlessly accessing your vehicle. You might be surprised to find you already have everything you need right at home!
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DIY Key Fob Battery Replacement: What You’ll Need
Replacing your key fob battery is a surprisingly accessible DIY project. To make the process smooth and efficient, gather these simple tools:
- A Thin, Flat Tool: A watch knife or a small flathead screwdriver works perfectly for gently prying open the key fob case.
- Replacement Battery: The most common type is a CR2032 coin cell battery, widely available at most retailers. However, it’s crucial to confirm the correct battery for your specific key fob.
- Precision Screwdriver (Possibly): Depending on your key fob model, you might need a small Phillips head screwdriver (around 1.4mm to 2.4mm) to remove tiny screws.
- Tweezers: Tweezers are incredibly helpful for handling the small battery and placing the new one correctly.
- Smartphone Camera: This is a pro tip! Your phone’s camera will be invaluable for taking reference photos as you disassemble the fob.
With these tools ready, you’re all set to tackle your car key fob battery replacement.
Simple Steps to Install a New Car Key Fob Battery:
The replacement process is generally quick and easy, typically involving these four core steps:
- Open the Key Fob Casing: Carefully pry open the plastic case of your key fob.
- Remove the Old Battery: Take out the depleted battery from its housing.
- Insert the New Battery: Place the new battery into the correct position, ensuring proper polarity (+/-).
- Close the Key Fob Case: Snap the case firmly back together.
Store manager Joseph De La Rosa at Interstate All Battery Center of Surprise, Ariz., demonstrates the key fob battery replacement process. | Video: Joseph De La Rosa
Identifying the Correct Car Key Fob Battery Size
Before you begin taking apart your key fob, it’s wise to determine the correct replacement battery size. Sometimes, the battery type is indicated directly on the key fob itself.
Check for embossed markings on the back of your key fob or inside the key sleeve. These markings often specify the battery type needed.
Key Fob Replacements Near You!
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It’s essential to verify the battery type before disassembling your fob. While the CR2032 coin cell is a common car key fob battery, variations exist depending on your car’s year, make, and model. For example, some models like the Honda CR-V might use a CR1250 battery. Additionally, some key fobs, like those for Ford Mustangs, can require two batteries.
If your key fob doesn’t display the battery type externally, don’t worry. You’ll simply need to carefully open it to identify the battery inside.
- Mike Harris, Interstate All Battery Center manager of production and engineering, demonstrates the ease of opening a key fob with a watch knife. | Image: Mike Harris*
Gently Prying Open Your Key Fob Case
When opening your key fob, gentleness is key. Avoid forcing it open, as this could damage the casing or internal components.
Instead of focusing pressure on one point, use your flat tool to carefully wedge around the seam of the key fob case. Many key fobs have a small notch designed to help you start the opening process. Once you’ve created a small gap, continue to work your tool around the perimeter of the case, gently separating the fasteners, similar to peeling an orange or apple. You should feel the fasteners pop open with minimal pressure.
Concerned About Your Car Battery? Get a Free Battery Test.
Visit an Interstate All Battery Center or your local auto repair shop for a complimentary, comprehensive check of your car’s starting and charging system.
Applying excessive force can cause the case to burst open unexpectedly, potentially scattering the internal parts of your key fob. Take your time and work methodically to prevent damage.
The Importance of Taking a Photo Inside Your Key Fob
Car key fob interiors can differ significantly, even within the same car make and model year. Before removing the old battery, taking a quick photo of the internal layout is an invaluable step.
This reference photo will be incredibly helpful when reassembling the key fob, ensuring all components are placed back in their correct positions. This simple precaution can save you from potential headaches and the need for a complete key fob replacement due to incorrect reassembly.
The photo will also clearly show the battery’s orientation, confirming whether the positive (+) side faces up or down. This is crucial for proper battery installation.
Handle the Internal Components with Care
Once your key fob is open, exercise caution with the internal wiring and circuit board. Tampering with these delicate components can lead to malfunctions and, potentially, the need for a costly key fob replacement.
Use tweezers or a similar precision tool to carefully lift the battery out of its housing. Some key fobs have small clips or sliding metal pieces securing the battery to the circuit board. Gently move these retainers out of the way to release the battery, but avoid pulling out the circuit board or any antennas.
The circuit board contains the programming that links your key fob to your car. Disrupting it could require reprogramming at a dealership or a qualified service center like select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
Power Up Your Car and Key Fob with Interstate®
Choose dependable, long-lasting power from a trusted brand. Find your next car battery and car key fob battery at Interstate All Battery Center.
