Is your Honda Clarity dashboard displaying a “Low Key Battery” warning? Don’t worry, replacing your Honda Clarity Key Fob Battery is a simple task you can easily handle yourself. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you can quickly and efficiently get your key fob back in top shape. Just like many Honda Clarity owners, I encountered this message after a couple of years of use. While my key fob still functioned, that persistent dashboard notification was a nudge to take action. This DIY approach not only saves you a trip to the dealership but also puts you in control of your car maintenance.
Before diving in, I relied on my spare key fob for a few days. However, armed with the owner’s manual and some online research, I realized replacing the battery was less daunting than I initially thought. While the manual provides basic instructions, seeing real-world examples and photos makes the process even clearer. That’s why I’m sharing my experience and photos – to give you a confident visual guide for your Honda Clarity key fob battery replacement.
The process is straightforward, and you’ll only need a couple of readily available items. Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these simple tools:
- A new CR2032 battery: This is the standard battery type for Honda Clarity key fobs. Consider buying a multipack online or at your local store, as these batteries have a long shelf life, and you’ll have spares for future replacements or your second key fob.
- A small flathead screwdriver: This will be used to gently pry open the key fob and remove the old battery.
Step-by-Step Honda Clarity Key Fob Battery Replacement
Follow these steps to replace your Honda Clarity key fob battery with ease:
Step 1: Remove the Emergency Key
The first step is to detach the emergency key from the key fob. Locate the small release switch on the side of your key fob. Slide this switch to the right, and the emergency key will slide out. This key is essential for manually unlocking your driver’s side door, especially if your car’s 12V battery is ever depleted. It’s also worth noting that this emergency key can open the trunk via a lock located behind the rear passenger headrest on the driver’s side – a handy tip if your jump starter is ever trapped in the trunk with a dead 12V battery!
Step 2: Open the Key Fob Casing
With the emergency key removed, you’ll need to split the key fob casing. The owner’s manual suggests using a coin and wrapping it in cloth to prevent scratches. However, a clever trick I discovered is that the emergency key itself is perfectly designed for this task!
Locate the small tabs exposed after removing the emergency key. These tabs are indicated by the yellow arrow in the image below. Insert the tip of your emergency key (or a coin if you prefer) into the slot between these tabs. Apply gentle pressure and twist slightly. The key fob casing should pop open. Using the emergency key feels natural and avoids the potential hassle of finding a coin and cloth.
Step 3: Access and Replace the Battery
Once the casing is open, you’ll see the CR2032 battery. The manual warns to “Remove carefully to avoid losing the buttons.” What this means is that the circuit board, to which the battery is connected, isn’t firmly secured. If you try to pry out the battery while holding the fob in your hand, you might accidentally lift the circuit board, potentially dislodging the buttons on the other side.
To prevent this, lay the key fob flat on a table. Hold it firmly against the table with one hand while using your small screwdriver in your other hand to gently pry out the battery. The image below highlights the best spot to insert your screwdriver – indicated by the green arrow. There are two small tabs (yellow arrows) holding the battery in place. Gently push the screwdriver under the battery at the green arrow location and pop it out.
With the old battery removed, insert the new CR2032 battery. Slide one side of the battery under the two tabs (yellow arrows) first, and then press down on the other side until it snaps into place under the smaller tabs.
Step 4: Reassemble the Key Fob
Now it’s time to put the key fob back together. Align the two halves of the casing and press them firmly together. You might find that it requires a bit more pressure than expected to snap closed. To make this easier, try squeezing the end opposite the emergency key slot first, and then squeeze the end where the emergency key goes. This method often helps the two halves click together more smoothly and with less force.
Once reassembled, slide the emergency key back into the fob until it clicks into its locked position.
Tips for a Smooth Battery Replacement
- Work on a flat surface: As mentioned, keeping the key fob flat on a table while removing the battery prevents accidental button dislodging.
- Use the emergency key to open the casing: It’s designed to fit perfectly and saves searching for a coin.
- Don’t force it: If the casing is difficult to open or close, double-check that everything is aligned correctly.
- Consider a key fob cover: To protect your key fob from scratches and wear, think about getting a silicone cover. They are inexpensive and can extend the life and appearance of your key fob.
Conclusion
Replacing your Honda Clarity key fob battery is a simple DIY task that can save you time and money. By following these steps, you can easily handle this routine maintenance yourself and keep your key fob functioning perfectly. No more dashboard warnings, and you gain a little more confidence in your car maintenance skills! Remember to use a CR2032 battery and take your time, especially when opening and reclosing the key fob casing. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing you’ve taken care of your Honda Clarity key fob battery replacement like a pro!
