Is your 2020 Mazda CX-5 key fob acting up? Are you finding yourself pressing the buttons harder or closer to your vehicle for it to respond? It might be time for a battery replacement. A dead or dying key fob battery can be a major inconvenience, potentially leaving you locked out of your car or unable to start it remotely. Fortunately, replacing the battery in your Mazda CX-5 key fob is a simple process you can easily do yourself. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about changing your 2020 Mazda CX-5 key fob battery, ensuring you get back on the road quickly and without a trip to the dealership for this minor issue.
Recognizing When Your 2020 Mazda CX-5 Key Fob Battery Needs Replacing
Before you find yourself completely unable to use your key fob, there are several warning signs that indicate a low battery. Being aware of these symptoms can help you proactively replace the battery and avoid any unexpected issues. Here are the common indicators that your 2020 Mazda CX-5 key fob battery is getting weak:
- Reduced Operating Range: You need to be much closer to your Mazda CX-5 than usual for the key fob to lock, unlock, or activate the panic alarm.
- Inconsistent Button Response: You press the buttons on your key fob, but the car doesn’t always respond, or you have to press them multiple times.
- Operation Indicator Light Doesn’t Flash: Typically, when you press a button on your key fob, a small light on the fob itself should flash. If this light is no longer flashing, it’s a strong sign of a dead battery.
- KEY Indicator Light on Dashboard: In some 2020 Mazda CX-5 models, a green KEY indicator light on the instrument cluster might flash for about 30 seconds after you switch off the engine. This is often accompanied by a message displayed in the instrument cluster alerting you to a low key fob battery.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s highly recommended to replace your key fob battery soon. Don’t wait until your key fob completely fails, leaving you in a potentially stressful situation.
What You’ll Need to Replace Your Mazda CX-5 Key Fob Battery
Replacing your 2020 Mazda CX-5 key fob battery is a straightforward task that requires minimal tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
- New Battery: You’ll need a CR2025 or CR2032 battery, depending on your key fob type. Type A key fobs use CR2025, while Type B key fobs use CR2032. Refer to your owner’s manual or check the markings inside your key fob to confirm the correct type. Both battery types are widely available at drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers.
- Small Flathead Screwdriver: A small, flathead screwdriver is needed to open the key fob casing. For optimal safety and to prevent damage, it’s recommended to wrap the tip of the screwdriver with tape. This will help avoid scratching the plastic casing.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your 2020 Mazda CX-5 Key Fob Battery
The battery replacement process is slightly different depending on whether you have a Type A or Type B key fob. Follow the instructions below that correspond to your key fob type.
Type A Key Fob Battery Replacement
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Remove the Auxiliary Key: Locate the small knob on your key fob and press it to release the auxiliary key. Pull the auxiliary key out from the fob.
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Pry Open the Cover (Step 1): Take your tape-wrapped flathead screwdriver and insert it into the small slot near where you removed the auxiliary key. Twist the screwdriver gently in the direction indicated by the arrow (usually outwards) to slightly open the cover.
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Pry Open the Cover (Step 2): Insert the tape-wrapped flathead screwdriver into the gap you just created and slide it along the seam in the direction of the arrow to further separate the cover.
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Remove the Cover: Twist the flathead screwdriver again in the direction of the arrow to fully detach and remove the key fob cover.
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Remove the Battery and Battery Cap: You may see a small battery cap covering the battery. Remove this cap. Then, carefully remove the old battery.
- Important: Take note of a small rubber ring that might be present around the battery compartment. Be careful not to scratch or damage this ring. If it comes loose, make sure to reattach it before inserting the new battery.
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Insert the New Battery: Insert the new CR2025 battery with the positive (+) pole facing upwards. Replace the battery cap if there was one.
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Close the Cover: Carefully snap the key fob cover back into place, ensuring it is securely closed.
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Reinsert the Auxiliary Key: Slide the auxiliary key back into the key fob until it clicks into place.
Type B Key Fob Battery Replacement
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Remove the Lower Cover: Locate the knob on the key fob and press it in the direction of the arrow while simultaneously removing the lower cover.
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Unlock the Upper Cover: Press in the tab as shown in the image to unlock the upper cover of the key fob.
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Pry Open the Upper Cover (Step 1): Insert your tape-wrapped flathead screwdriver into the gap created and slide it in the direction of the arrow to begin separating the upper cover.
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Remove the Upper Cover: Twist the flathead screwdriver in the direction of the arrow to fully detach and remove the upper cover.
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Remove the Cap: Use your tape-wrapped flathead screwdriver to gently remove the battery cap.
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Remove the Battery: Use the tape-wrapped flathead screwdriver to carefully remove the old battery.
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Insert the New Battery: Insert a new CR2032 battery into the transmitter, ensuring the positive (+) pole is facing upwards.
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Install the Cap: Replace the battery cap.
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Install the Upper Cover: Snap the upper cover back onto the key fob.
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Install the Lower Cover: Insert the tabs of the lower cover into the slots on the transmitter and snap the lower cover back into place.
Important Safety and Battery Disposal Information
When handling batteries, it’s crucial to follow safety precautions to prevent damage to yourself, your key fob, and the environment. Keep these points in mind:
- Battery Installation: Always ensure you install the new battery correctly, with the positive (+) pole facing the correct direction. Incorrect installation can lead to battery leakage and damage your key fob.
- Handle with Care: When replacing the battery, be careful not to touch any internal circuitry or electrical terminals. Avoid bending the terminals or getting dirt or debris inside the transmitter, as this could damage the key fob.
- Explosion Risk: There is a risk of explosion if the battery is not replaced correctly or if the wrong type of battery is used. Always use the specified battery type (CR2025 or CR2032).
- Battery Disposal: Dispose of used batteries responsibly. Do not throw them in regular trash. Follow these guidelines for safe battery disposal:
- Insulate Terminals: Use cellophane tape or electrical tape to insulate both the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals of the old battery. This prevents short circuits and potential hazards.
- Never Disassemble: Do not attempt to disassemble the battery.
- No Fire or Water: Never throw batteries into fire or water, as they can explode or leak harmful chemicals.
- Avoid Deformation: Do not deform or crush batteries.
- Professional Replacement Recommendation: While you can easily replace the key fob battery yourself, Mazda recommends battery replacement at an Authorized Mazda Dealer to prevent any potential damage to the key fob. If you are uncomfortable with DIY repairs, consider taking your key fob to a dealer for battery service.
By following these steps and safety guidelines, you can easily replace your 2020 Mazda CX-5 key fob battery and ensure your keyless entry system works reliably. Enjoy the convenience of a fully functional key fob once again!
