Is your car struggling to recognize your key fob? Do you find yourself pressing the unlock button multiple times just to get a response? It might not be your car acting up; it could be a simple case of a dying key fob battery. Like any battery, the one in your car key fob weakens over time and eventually needs replacing.
While getting your key fob battery changed professionally at a dealership or auto repair shop is an option, it’s often unnecessary and can be costly. The good news is that changing your key fob battery is a straightforward DIY task that most car owners can handle themselves. It’s considerably easier than replacing your car battery and only requires a few basic tools and a fresh, inexpensive battery.
However, a word of caution: while the process is simple, carelessness can lead to damage, potentially requiring a complete key fob replacement. But don’t worry, with the right guidance, you can confidently replace your key fob battery and restore your key’s functionality. Let’s dive into how you can easily breathe new life into your car key fob.
Image: Opening a car key fob casing using a watch knife for battery replacement.
Tools You’ll Need for a Key Fob Battery Change
Before you begin, gather these simple tools to make the process smooth and efficient:
- A Small, Flat-Head Tool: A watch knife or a thin flat-head screwdriver works perfectly for gently prying open the key fob casing.
- Replacement Battery: Most key fobs use a common CR2032 coin cell battery, readily available at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers. However, it’s crucial to verify the correct battery type for your specific key fob before purchasing (we’ll cover this shortly).
- Precision Screwdriver (Possibly): Some key fobs use tiny screws to secure the casing. If you notice screws, have a precision screwdriver set (ranging from 1.4mm to 2.4mm) handy.
- Tweezers (Optional but Helpful): Tweezers can be useful for handling the small battery and placing the new one into the fob.
- Smartphone Camera: This is a highly recommended tool! Your phone camera will be used to take pictures as you disassemble the key fob, ensuring you can reassemble it correctly.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change Your Key Fob Battery
With your tools ready, follow these simple steps to replace your key fob battery:
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Open the Key Fob Casing: Carefully examine your key fob. Look for a small notch or seam line around the edge of the casing. This is where you’ll insert your flat-head tool. Gently wedge the tool into the notch and twist or pry to separate the two halves of the fob casing. Work your way around the seam, gently loosening the fasteners. Avoid forcing it open, as this could damage the casing.
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Identify the Battery and Note its Orientation: Once the case is open, you’ll see the battery. Before removing the old battery, take a picture with your smartphone! This photo is crucial for remembering the battery’s orientation (+ positive side up or down) and the placement of other internal components. Note the battery type printed on the old battery (e.g., CR2032, CR1620, etc.).
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Remove the Old Battery: Depending on the fob design, the battery might be held in place by small clips or simply sit snugly in a compartment. Use your fingers or tweezers to gently lift the old battery out.
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Insert the New Battery: Take your new battery and, referring to the photo you took, place it into the battery compartment with the correct orientation (positive side up or down as indicated in your photo). Ensure it sits securely in place.
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Close the Key Fob Casing: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and snap them back together. Press firmly until you hear or feel them click securely into place. If your fob had screws, re-insert and tighten them gently.
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Test Your Key Fob: Try unlocking or locking your car with the key fob to ensure the new battery is working correctly.
Identifying the Correct Replacement Battery
Before you even open your key fob, it’s wise to try and determine the correct battery type it requires.
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Check the Key Fob Casing: Some key fobs have the battery type embossed or printed on the back or inside the battery compartment. Look for markings like “CR2032,” “CR1620,” etc.
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Consult Your Owner’s Manual: Your car’s owner’s manual may contain information about the key fob battery type.
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Online Resources: Search online using your car’s make, model, and year along with “key fob battery type.” You’ll often find forums or websites that list the correct battery for your vehicle.
If you’re still unsure, it’s always best to open the key fob carefully and check the marking on the existing battery before purchasing a replacement.
Image: Demonstration of key fob battery replacement by store manager Joseph De La Rosa.
Important Tips for a Successful Key Fob Battery Replacement
- Gentle is Key: When prying open the key fob, be gentle and patient. Avoid forcing it, which can damage the plastic casing. Work slowly around the seam.
- Don’t Lose Any Parts: Key fobs have small internal components. Work on a clean, well-lit surface and be mindful not to lose any buttons, rubber pieces, or screws.
- Handle the Circuit Board with Care: Once the fob is open, you’ll see a circuit board. Avoid touching or disturbing it unnecessarily. Focus solely on the battery replacement.
- Battery Orientation is Crucial: Always ensure you insert the new battery with the correct polarity (+ and – side matching the original orientation). This is why taking a picture is so important!
When to Consider Key Fob Replacement
In most cases, a simple battery change will resolve key fob issues. However, if you’re experiencing problems even after replacing the battery, or if your key fob is physically damaged, it might be time for a key fob replacement.
Get Your Key Fob Batteries and More at Interstate All Battery Center
Changing your key fob battery is a simple and cost-effective way to keep your car key working reliably. For long-lasting, dependable key fob batteries and a wide range of automotive batteries, visit your local Interstate All Battery Center. You can find the correct battery for your key fob and car, ensuring you’re always powered up and ready to go.
