Is your car key fob acting up? Finding yourself pressing the unlock button multiple times before your car responds? It might be a sign that your key fob battery is dying and needs replacing. Don’t worry, changing the battery in your key fob is often a straightforward process you can handle yourself, saving you time and money compared to dealership or professional services.
While you could certainly visit a dealership, auto repair shop, or even a battery specialist to get your key fob battery replaced, you also have the option to do it yourself. Replacing a car key fob battery is considerably easier than replacing your car’s main battery. With a few simple tools and a new battery, you can restore your key fob’s functionality. However, caution is key, as mishandling could lead to needing a complete key fob replacement.
Is your car key fob not working as reliably as it used to? The good news is you likely have everything you need already to revitalize your car key remote.
Essential Tools for Key Fob Battery Replacement
Replacing your key fob battery is a DIY-friendly task, especially when you have the right tools at your disposal. Here’s what you’ll typically need:
- A Thin Blade or Pry Tool: A watch knife or a small flathead screwdriver works perfectly for carefully prying open the key fob casing.
- Replacement Battery: Most key fobs use a CR2032 coin cell battery, widely available in stores. However, it’s crucial to double-check your specific key fob model.
- Precision Screwdriver (Occasionally): Some key fobs utilize tiny screws, requiring a precision screwdriver set, often between 1.4mm and 2.4mm.
- Tweezers: These are helpful for grabbing and maneuvering the small battery and avoiding touching the battery terminals with your fingers.
- Smartphone Camera: Taking reference photos as you disassemble the fob can be invaluable for reassembly.
The basic steps for installing a key fob replacement battery are generally as follows:
- Open the Key Fob Casing: Carefully pry open the plastic case of your key fob.
- Remove the Old Battery: Take out the depleted battery.
- Insert the New Battery: Place the new battery into the compartment, ensuring correct polarity.
- Close the Casing: Snap the key fob case back together securely.
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Identifying the Correct Key Fob Battery Size
Before you start taking apart your key fob, it’s wise to check for the battery size it requires. Sometimes, the battery type is indicated on the back of the key fob or inside the key sleeve with embossed markings.
It’s important to avoid disassembling your key fob only to discover you’ve purchased the wrong replacement battery. While many car key fobs utilize the standard CR2032 coin cell battery, variations exist depending on your car’s year, make, and model. For example, some vehicles might require a CR1250 or other battery types. Furthermore, some key fobs, like those for certain Ford Mustang models, may require two batteries.
If your key fob doesn’t explicitly show the battery type, you’ll need to carefully open it to identify the correct battery before purchasing a replacement.
Safely Prying Open Your Key Fob Case
When prying open your car key fob, gentleness is paramount. Avoid using excessive force, as this can damage the casing or internal components. Instead of trying to force it open from one point, carefully wedge your flathead screwdriver or watch knife around the seam of the case. Many key fob cases have a small notch designed to help you initiate the opening process. Once you’ve created a small gap, work your pry tool around the perimeter of the case, gently separating the fasteners, similar to peeling an orange. With a little patience, the case should pop open without requiring excessive pressure.
The Importance of Taking a Picture Before Battery Removal
Key fobs can have surprisingly diverse internal layouts, even within the same car make and model year. Before you remove the old battery, taking a photograph of the key fob’s internal arrangement is a crucial step. This reference photo can be a lifesaver during reassembly, preventing potential issues that could necessitate a complete key fob replacement.
The photo will clearly show the battery orientation, ensuring you correctly place the new battery with the positive side up or down as required.
Handling the Internal Components with Care
Once your key fob is open, it’s vital to handle the internal components with utmost care. Avoid disturbing any wiring or the circuit board inside the fob. Mishandling these delicate parts could lead to significant problems and 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 may have a small fastener or sliding metal piece securing the battery. Gently move these aside to remove the battery, but avoid pulling out the circuit board or antennas.
The electronic circuits within your key fob are responsible for maintaining its programming to your car. Disturbing them unnecessarily might require reprogramming at a dealership or a specialized service, adding extra cost and inconvenience.
By following these steps and exercising caution, changing the battery in your key fob can be a simple and rewarding DIY task, keeping you on the road without unnecessary expenses.
