Just like any other battery, the one in your car’s fob key will eventually wear out. Are you finding yourself pressing the unlock button multiple times before your car finally responds? It might be a clear sign that your Fob Key Battery is dying and needs replacing.
While you could take your car key fob to a dealership, a mechanic, or even a battery specialist, replacing the fob key battery yourself is a surprisingly straightforward task. It’s definitely less complicated than changing your car’s main battery, and with a fresh lithium battery, you can restore your key fob’s functionality in minutes. However, caution is key; mishandling could lead to needing a complete key fob replacement. (Don’t worry, aftermarket key fob options are available if needed).
Is your car key fob acting up? The good news is you likely have everything you need already to breathe new life into your car key remote.
DIY Fob Key Battery Replacement: What You’ll Need
Replacing your fob key battery is a DIY-friendly task, and here’s what you’ll typically need to get the job done:
- A Thin Pry Tool: A watch knife or a small, flathead screwdriver works perfectly for carefully opening the fob casing.
- Replacement Battery: Most fobs use a CR2032 coin cell battery, widely available in stores.
- Precision Screwdriver (Possibly): Depending on your fob, a 1.4mm to 2.4mm precision screwdriver might be needed.
- Tweezers: These are helpful for handling the small battery.
- Smartphone Camera: Taking pictures as you disassemble the fob is a smart move for easy reassembly.
The process of installing a new fob key battery is generally as follows:
- Carefully pry open the plastic casing of your key fob.
- Remove the old, depleted battery.
- Insert the new fob key battery.
- Snap the fob casing back together.
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Identifying the Correct Fob Key Battery Size
Before you start taking apart your key fob, it’s wise to check for the battery size it requires. Often, the battery type is embossed on the back of the fob or inside the battery compartment.
While many car key fobs use the common CR2032 coin cell battery, the specific type can vary based on your car’s year, make, and model. For example, some vehicles might use a CR1250 battery, and certain fobs, like those for Ford Mustangs, may even require two batteries.
If you can’t find the battery type indicated on your fob, don’t worry. You’ll just need to carefully open the case to identify the battery inside.
Step-by-Step Guide to Open Your Key Fob for Battery Replacement
Gently prying open your car key fob is crucial. Avoid forcing it, as this could damage the casing. Once you’ve created a small opening, resist the urge to pull it apart forcefully from just one point. This can easily lead to breakage and the need for a complete key fob replacement.
Instead, work your thin blade or flathead screwdriver around the seam of the case. Many fobs have a small notch to help you get started. Once you have an initial gap, carefully move your tool around the perimeter, gently separating the fasteners, similar to peeling an orange. It shouldn’t require excessive force to pop the case open.
Be mindful not to apply too much pressure at once, as this could cause the fob to spring open unexpectedly, scattering the internal components.
The Importance of Taking a Picture Before Removing the Old Fob Key Battery
The internal layout of car key fobs can differ significantly, even for vehicles of the same make and model year.
Before you remove the old battery, take a clear photo of the fob’s internals. This simple step serves as a valuable reference during reassembly. It can prevent you from incorrectly placing components, potentially leading to a non-functional fob and the unnecessary expense of a key fob replacement.
Your photo will clearly show the orientation of the battery, ensuring you insert the new one correctly (positive side up or down).
Handling the Internals of Your Key Fob with Care
Inside the fob, you’ll find delicate wiring and a circuit board. It’s essential to avoid disturbing these components. Mishandling them could lead to serious issues, potentially requiring a costly key fob replacement and reprogramming.
Use tweezers or a similar precision tool to carefully lift the old battery out of its housing. Some fobs have small clips or sliding metal pieces securing the battery. Gently move these aside to release the battery, but avoid pulling out the circuit board or any antennas.
The electronic circuits within the fob retain your car’s programming. Disturbing them unnecessarily can lead to the fob losing its synchronization with your vehicle, possibly requiring a trip to the dealership for reprogramming.
By following these steps, replacing your fob key battery can be a quick and easy way to restore your keyless entry system and save yourself time and money.
