Experiencing issues with your 2010 Honda Accord key fob? A common culprit for a weak or unresponsive key fob is often just a dead battery. Fortunately, replacing the battery in your 2010 Honda Accord key fob is a straightforward process you can easily handle yourself, saving you time and a trip to the dealership. This guide will walk you through each step to get your key fob working like new again.
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools. You’ll need a small Phillips head screwdriver, specifically a #0 size, often referred to as a jeweler’s screwdriver. For older key fobs, the screw might be secured with a thread-locking chemical, making it a bit tougher to remove. In such cases, gently warming the screwdriver tip with a lighter or candle for a few seconds can help loosen the screw. Be cautious not to overheat it, and always prioritize safety.
Once you have your tools ready, follow these steps to replace your 2010 Honda Accord Key Fob Battery:
Step 1: Open the Key Fob Casing
Locate the small screw on the back of your 2010 Honda Accord key fob. Using your #0 Phillips head screwdriver, carefully loosen and remove this screw. It’s important to use the correct size screwdriver to avoid stripping the screw head. After removing the screw, gently pry apart the two halves of the key fob casing. Many Honda key fobs have a small slot along the side to aid in separating the halves. If you encounter some resistance, especially with older fobs, apply steady but firm pressure to separate the case. Be patient and avoid using excessive force that could damage the plastic.
Step 2: Access the Battery Capsule
After opening the key fob, you’ll see a small black capsule containing the electronic components, including the battery. Carefully remove this capsule from the key fob casing.
Step 3: Open the Battery Capsule and Identify the Battery
Now, you need to open the battery capsule itself. Use a small flat-head jeweler’s screwdriver to gently pry open the capsule from one end. Pay close attention to the orientation of the two halves of the capsule as you open it. They are designed to fit back together in only one way, ensuring proper contact with the battery. Inside, you’ll find the battery. For a 2010 Honda Accord key fob, the battery type is typically a CR1616 3V lithium coin cell battery. While Honda owner’s manuals often lack this specific detail, this is the standard battery for this model year.
Step 4: Replace the Battery and Clean the Contacts
Remove the old CR1616 battery and replace it with a new one. Ensure the new battery is inserted with the correct polarity, matching the markings inside the capsule. Before reassembling, take a moment to inspect the battery contacts within the capsule. A common issue reported with 2008 and newer Honda Accords and Pilots is the presence of dielectric grease on these contacts. This grease, while intended for protection, can sometimes interfere with the battery connection, leading to a weak key fob signal even with a new battery. If you notice any grease on the battery contacts or the contact pads, gently wipe them clean with a clean, dry cloth or a cotton swab.
Step 5: Reassemble the Key Fob
Carefully reassemble the battery capsule, ensuring the two halves are correctly aligned. Place the capsule back into the key fob casing, and snap the two halves of the key fob casing back together. Finally, reinsert and tighten the small Phillips head screw.
Once reassembled, test your 2010 Honda Accord key fob to ensure it’s functioning correctly. Replacing the battery is a simple fix that can often resolve key fob issues, getting you back on the road with a reliable remote once again. If you continue to experience problems after replacing the battery and cleaning the contacts, it’s advisable to consult with a qualified automotive technician for further diagnosis.
