Experiencing a persistent warning message on your Honda’s dashboard signaling a low key fob battery? It’s a common scenario after a couple of years of use. While your key fob might still function, that dashboard notification is a clear indicator: it’s time for a battery replacement. Ignoring this warning could leave you stranded, so proactive battery replacement is key. Fortunately, changing your Honda key fob battery is a straightforward task you can easily handle yourself. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring a smooth and successful battery replacement. Knowing the correct Honda Key Fob Battery Type is the first step to regaining full functionality and peace of mind.
You’ll be pleased to know that most Honda key fobs utilize a widely available and inexpensive CR2032 battery type. These batteries are known for their long shelf life, making it practical to purchase them in multipacks, ensuring you have spares for future replacements or for your second key fob.
To complete this simple DIY task, you will need just a couple of readily available tools:
- A new CR2032 battery (or two if you’re replacing batteries in multiple fobs).
- A small flathead screwdriver.
Step-by-Step Honda Key Fob Battery Replacement
Follow these simple steps to replace your Honda key fob battery:
1. Removing the Emergency Key
Begin by locating the small switch on your key fob designed to release the emergency key. This key is a mechanical backup to unlock your car door should your vehicle’s 12V battery die. Slide the release switch to the right to detach the emergency key from the fob.
Side Note: The emergency key isn’t just for dead car batteries. It can also unlock your trunk via a lock cylinder located behind the driver-side rear passenger headrest – a useful feature if your portable jump starter is unfortunately trapped in the trunk with a dead 12V battery.
2. Splitting the Fob Casing
Honda’s owner’s manual suggests using a coin wrapped in cloth to split the key fob halves, aiming to prevent scratches. However, a more convenient and purpose-designed tool is right at your fingertips: the emergency key itself.
Carefully insert the emergency key into the slot between the tabs that protrude from the side of the fob, as indicated in the image. These tabs become visible once the emergency key is removed. Gently twist or apply pressure to split the fob casing along its seam. The emergency key fits perfectly in this slot, suggesting it was designed for this very purpose. While a coin will also work, the emergency key offers a snug fit and reduces the risk of damage.
3. Accessing and Replacing the Battery
With the fob casing split open, you’ll gain immediate access to the CR2032 battery. The official instructions caution against losing the buttons during this step. What this actually refers to is the circuit board beneath the battery. The buttons are attached to the circuit board, which is loosely fitted within the fob.
To prevent accidentally dislodging the circuit board and potentially the buttons, lay the fob flat on a table. Use your small flathead screwdriver to gently pry the CR2032 battery out of its housing. The optimal insertion point for the screwdriver is shown by the green arrow in the image below, targeting the side of the battery.
Notice the small tabs (yellow arrows) that secure the battery. When inserting the new CR2032 battery, slide it first under these tabs and then press down on the opposite side to snap it into place.
4. Reassembling the Fob
Rejoining the two halves of the key fob requires more pressure than you might anticipate. Ensure both halves are perfectly aligned before applying pressure. A helpful technique is to first squeeze the end of the fob opposite to where the emergency key is inserted. Once that end clicks together, apply pressure to the emergency key end to fully close the fob. This method often requires less force and ensures proper alignment, preventing damage to the locking tabs.
For added protection against scratches and wear, consider investing in a silicone cover for your Honda key fob. These covers are readily available online and can help maintain the fob’s pristine condition.
Conclusion
Replacing your Honda key fob battery, specifically ensuring you use the correct Honda key fob battery type which is CR2032, is a simple and cost-effective task you can confidently perform at home. By following these steps, you can quickly resolve the low battery warning and maintain the reliable functionality of your key fob, saving time and money compared to dealership replacements.
