Is your car key fob starting to feel a little unresponsive? Are you pressing the unlock button multiple times before your car finally acknowledges your command? It might be a sign that the small battery powering your key fob is nearing the end of its life. Replacing it is a simple fix, but the first question many car owners ask is: Where To Buy Batteries For Key Fob?
Finding the right replacement battery for your key fob is easier than you might think. You don’t necessarily need to rush to a dealership or a specialized car repair shop. In fact, you can often find the battery you need at places you frequent regularly. This guide will walk you through the best places to purchase key fob batteries, help you identify the correct type, and offer tips to ensure you get a quality battery.
Common Places to Buy Key Fob Batteries
When it comes to sourcing batteries for your key fob, you have a variety of options, ranging from brick-and-mortar stores to online retailers. Here are some of the most convenient and reliable places to consider:
1. Retail Stores:
For immediate needs, local retail stores are often the quickest solution. Pharmacies, supermarkets, and general merchandise stores like Walmart or Target typically stock a selection of small batteries, including the coin cell batteries commonly used in key fobs. You can usually find these batteries in the electronics or battery section of the store.
Pros: Convenience, immediate availability, often found in stores you already visit.
Cons: Selection might be limited, prices can sometimes be slightly higher than online retailers.
2. Auto Parts Stores:
Auto parts stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and O’Reilly Auto Parts are excellent resources for car-related components, and this includes key fob batteries. Staff at these stores are usually knowledgeable about car parts and can assist you in finding the correct battery type if you’re unsure. Some locations may even offer battery replacement services.
Pros: Knowledgeable staff, likely to stock a wide range of automotive batteries, potential for in-store assistance.
Cons: May require a dedicated trip to the auto parts store.
3. Online Retailers:
Online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay, as well as specialized battery retailers’ websites, offer an extensive selection of key fob batteries at competitive prices. Shopping online allows you to compare prices, read customer reviews, and often find bulk deals if you want to stock up. Websites like Interstate Batteries also provide online purchasing options and can guide you to local retail locations.
Pros: Wide selection, competitive pricing, convenience of shopping from home, customer reviews available.
Cons: Shipping time required, potential for counterfeit products from less reputable sellers (stick to trusted retailers).
4. Dealerships and Car Repair Shops:
While often more expensive, car dealerships and repair shops are guaranteed to have the correct type of battery for your specific vehicle model. Dealerships are particularly useful if you are unsure about the battery type or prefer professional replacement service. However, for just a battery purchase, this is often the least cost-effective option.
Pros: Guaranteed to have the correct battery, potential for professional replacement service.
Cons: Most expensive option, may require scheduling an appointment.
5. Battery Specialty Stores:
Stores specializing in batteries, like Interstate All Battery Center, offer a comprehensive range of batteries, including those for key fobs. These stores often have knowledgeable staff who can help you identify the correct battery and may offer battery testing and replacement services.
Pros: Wide selection of batteries, expert staff, potential for battery testing and replacement services.
Cons: May require locating a specialty store in your area.
Identifying the Right Battery for Your Key Fob
Before you head out to buy a new battery, it’s crucial to determine the correct type for your key fob. Using the wrong battery can lead to improper function or even damage your key fob. Here’s how to find out what battery you need:
1. Check Your Key Fob or Owner’s Manual:
Many key fobs have the battery type printed directly on the back or inside the battery compartment. Look for markings like “CR2032,” “CR1620,” or similar alphanumeric codes. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual may also specify the correct battery type for your key fob in the vehicle specifications section.
2. Open Your Key Fob:
If you can’t find the battery type externally, you’ll need to carefully open your key fob. Most key fobs can be opened using a small flathead screwdriver or a thin blade like a watch knife. Gently pry along the seam of the fob to separate the two halves.
3. Note the Existing Battery Type:
Once opened, you’ll see the battery inside. Note the code printed on the battery itself. This is the most reliable way to identify the correct replacement. While you have the fob open, take a picture with your phone to remember the battery orientation and component placement, as shown in the original article.
4. Online Battery Finder Tools:
Many battery retailers, especially online, offer battery finder tools. You can input your car’s make, model, and year, and the tool will often suggest the compatible key fob battery type. However, always double-check this information with your key fob or owner’s manual if possible.
DIY vs. Professional Key Fob Battery Replacement
Once you’ve purchased your replacement battery, you’ll need to install it. You have two main options: do it yourself (DIY) or seek professional help.
DIY Battery Replacement:
As the original article highlights, replacing a key fob battery yourself is often a straightforward process. You’ll typically need:
- A new key fob battery (correct type)
- A small flathead screwdriver or watch knife to open the fob
- Tweezers (optional, for handling the battery)
Steps for DIY Replacement:
- Open the Key Fob: Carefully pry open the key fob casing.
- Remove the Old Battery: Gently remove the old battery, noting its orientation (+ side up or down).
- Insert the New Battery: Place the new battery in the same orientation as the old one.
- Close the Key Fob: Snap the key fob case back together securely.
- Test: Test your key fob to ensure it’s working correctly.
Professional Battery Replacement:
If you’re uncomfortable with DIY or worried about damaging your key fob, professional replacement is a viable option. Dealerships, auto parts stores, and battery specialty stores may offer this service.
Pros of Professional Replacement:
- Convenience – you don’t have to do it yourself.
- Expertise – professionals are experienced in battery replacement.
- Peace of mind – reduces the risk of damaging your key fob.
Cons of Professional Replacement:
- Higher cost compared to DIY.
- May require a trip to a specific location and waiting time.
Cost of Key Fob Batteries and Replacement Services
The cost of a key fob battery itself is relatively inexpensive, typically ranging from $2 to $10 depending on the battery type and brand. Coin cell batteries like CR2032 are widely available and generally on the lower end of this price range.
If you opt for professional replacement, the total cost will be higher, including labor charges. Dealerships tend to be the most expensive, while auto parts stores or battery specialty stores might offer more competitive pricing for battery replacement services. It’s always a good idea to call ahead and inquire about the cost of battery replacement if you choose this route.
Tips for Buying Key Fob Batteries
To ensure you get the best value and performance from your key fob battery purchase, consider these tips:
- Check the Expiration Date: Batteries have a shelf life. Check the expiration date printed on the battery packaging to ensure you’re buying a fresh battery.
- Choose Reputable Brands: Stick to well-known and reputable battery brands for quality and reliability.
- Compare Prices: Compare prices from different retailers, especially online, to find the best deals.
- Consider Buying in Bulk: If you have multiple vehicles or want to be prepared, buying batteries in bulk online can often save you money in the long run.
- Store Spares Properly: Store spare batteries in a cool, dry place away from metal objects to prevent short circuits.
Conclusion
Knowing where to buy batteries for key fob and how to replace them is a valuable skill for any car owner. With numerous convenient options available, from local retail stores to online marketplaces and specialty shops like Interstate All Battery Center, getting a replacement battery is easy. By identifying the correct battery type and choosing between DIY or professional replacement, you can keep your key fob working reliably and avoid the inconvenience of a dead battery. For all your automotive battery needs, remember to explore the wide selection and expert services available at keyfobx.com and Interstate All Battery Center locations.
