Is your Hyundai Tucson key fob not working as reliably as it used to? Before you rush to the dealership for a costly replacement, the issue might be something as simple as a dead battery. Replacing the battery in your Hyundai Tucson key fob is a straightforward process that you can easily do yourself in just a few minutes. This guide will walk you through the steps, saving you time and money.
Knowing the type of key fob you have is the first step. Hyundai Tucson key fobs come in various styles, but understanding which one you own will help you locate the battery compartment correctly. Here are the common types:
- Standard Remotes: These are basic key fobs with buttons to lock, unlock, and sometimes include a panic button or trunk release. They are purely functional without any frills.
- Flip Keys: These remotes feature a key blade that is attached to the remote and flips out, much like a switchblade, for physical key access to your Hyundai Tucson.
- Remote Heads: With this type, the key blade is directly attached and protrudes from the remote. It doesn’t retract or fold away.
- Fobik Keys: In a Fobik system, the key is separate from the remote fob itself. The key is usually hidden inside or detached from the fob, designed for vehicles with push-to-start ignition.
- Smart Keys: Often paired with push-to-start systems, smart keys offer enhanced features and convenience, sometimes including proximity sensors for keyless entry and start.
Once you’ve identified your key fob type, the battery replacement process is quite similar across most Hyundai Tucson models. Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Battery Replacement Guide
For newer Hyundai Tucson models, there’s often a hidden key within the fob itself.
- Locate the Hidden Key: Look for a small release button or latch on your key fob. Press or slide this to detach the mechanical key.
- Open the Casing: Once the key is removed, you’ll find a slot or notch where the key was housed. Insert the mechanical key into this slot.
- Pry Open Gently: Use the key to gently twist or pry the key fob casing open. You might hear a click as the case separates.
For older Hyundai Tucson models, you’ll typically need a slim tool:
- Find the Notch: Examine the edges of your key fob for a small notch or seam. This is where you’ll open the case.
- Use a Flathead Screwdriver (or similar): Insert a thin, flat object like a small flathead screwdriver or a plastic pry tool into the notch.
- Carefully Pry Apart: Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the key fob casing. Be careful not to apply too much force to avoid damaging the plastic.
Accessing and Replacing the Battery (For Both Types):
- Expose the Circuit Board: After opening the case, carefully lift the circuit board to reveal the battery compartment underneath.
- Note Battery Orientation: Before removing the old battery, take note of how it’s positioned in the case (+ and – sides). This ensures you insert the new battery correctly.
- Remove the Old Battery: Gently pry out the old battery. Hyundai Tucson key fobs commonly use CR2032 or CR2016 batteries. Check your owner’s manual or the old battery itself to confirm the correct type.
- Insert New Battery: Place the new battery into the compartment, ensuring it matches the correct orientation you noted earlier.
- Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully snap the key fob casing back together until it’s securely closed. Ensure all parts are aligned properly.
Testing and Troubleshooting
Once you’ve replaced the battery, test your Hyundai Tucson key fob by pressing the buttons to lock, unlock, or activate other functions.
- Successful Replacement: If the key fob now works, you’ve successfully replaced the battery!
- Still Not Working? Double-check the battery orientation and ensure the battery contacts are clean and making good contact. Sometimes, gently cleaning the contacts can help. If it still doesn’t work, consider that you might need a full key fob replacement, especially if the issue isn’t battery-related.
Replacing your Hyundai Tucson key fob battery is usually a quick and economical fix for many common key fob issues. By following these simple steps, you can often restore your key fob’s functionality and avoid unnecessary expenses.
