Key fobs are incredibly convenient, allowing you to lock, unlock, and even start your Dodge vehicle with the push of a button. However, like any battery-powered device, the battery in your Dodge key fob will eventually need replacing. If you’ve noticed your key fob becoming less responsive, or if it’s stopped working altogether, a dead battery is the most likely culprit. Fortunately, changing the battery in your Dodge key fob is a straightforward process that you can easily do yourself at home in just a few minutes. This guide will walk you through the steps for both modern and older style Dodge key fobs, ensuring you get back to effortlessly accessing your vehicle in no time.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these simple tools:
- A new CR2032 battery (easily found at most auto parts stores, drugstores, and online retailers)
- A small flathead screwdriver or a similar flat, thin tool
Step-by-Step Guide for Modern Dodge Key Fobs
This method applies to Dodge key fobs that do not require insertion into the dashboard to start the vehicle.
Step 1: Release the Emergency Key
Locate the small lever or button on the back of your Dodge key fob. Slide or press it to release the mechanical emergency key. Pull the key out and set it aside in a safe place.
Step 2: Prepare Your Tools
Ensure you have your flathead screwdriver or similar tool ready. This will be used to gently pry open the key fob casing.
Step 3: Open the Key Fob Casing
Examine the bottom of the key fob, where the emergency key was just removed. You’ll see a small slot or seam. Insert the tip of your flathead screwdriver into this slot. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the key fob. Take your time and avoid applying excessive force to prevent damage to the casing.
Step 4: Battery Replacement
Once the key fob is open, you’ll see the internal electronics and the round, button-cell battery. Note the orientation of the battery (specifically the “+” side). Use your flathead screwdriver or your fingertip to carefully slide the old battery out of its housing.
Take your new CR2032 battery and slide it into the battery compartment, ensuring the “+” side is facing the correct direction (match it to the orientation of the old battery or look for “+” markings in the housing).
Step 5: Reassemble the Key Fob
Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly back together until they click securely. Finally, slide the emergency key back into its slot until it locks into place.
Step-by-Step Guide for Older Dodge Key Fobs
If your Dodge uses a key fob that needs to be placed in the dashboard to start the vehicle, follow these steps.
Step 1: Release Emergency Key
As with the modern key fob, begin by releasing and removing the emergency key from the back of the fob.
Step 2: Locate and Remove the Screw
Flip the key fob over so the buttons are facing down and the round end is pointing upwards. You will see a small Phillips head screw. Use a small Phillips head screwdriver to remove this screw and set it aside.
Step 3: Open the Key Fob Casing
With the screw removed, use your flathead screwdriver to gently pry apart the two halves of the key fob casing. Insert the tool into the seam and carefully twist or pry to separate the pieces.
Step 4: Battery Replacement
The internal components of the key fob will now be accessible. Carefully lift out the inner piece to reveal the battery compartment on the underside. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new CR2032 battery, ensuring correct polarity.
Step 5: Reassemble the Key Fob
Place the inner piece back into the key fob casing, and then carefully snap the two halves of the casing back together. Replace the Phillips head screw and tighten it gently. Finally, reinsert the emergency key.
Conclusion
Changing your Dodge key fob battery is a quick and easy maintenance task that can save you time and the hassle of a non-functioning key fob. By following these simple steps, you can ensure your key fob is always ready to unlock your vehicle and get you on your way. Keep a spare CR2032 battery handy, and you’ll be prepared for when your key fob battery needs replacing again in the future.
