Is your car key fob starting to feel a little unresponsive? Are you finding yourself pressing the unlock button multiple times to get your car to react? It might be a sign that your key fob battery is dying and needs replacing.
While it might seem daunting, changing the battery in your key fob is actually a straightforward process you can easily do yourself at home. No need to rush to the dealership or a mechanic – with a few simple tools and a little patience, you can breathe new life into your car remote.
This guide will walk you through the steps to change your key fob battery, saving you time and money. We’ll cover everything from identifying the right battery to safely opening your fob and ensuring a successful battery replacement. Let’s get started and get your key fob working like new again!
Tools You’ll Need to Replace Your Key Fob Battery
Before you begin, gather these essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient:
- A small, flat-head screwdriver or watch knife: This will be used to gently pry open the key fob case. A watch knife, designed for delicate work, is ideal, but a thin flat-head screwdriver will also work carefully.
- A new replacement battery: Key fobs typically use coin cell batteries, most commonly the CR2032. However, battery types can vary depending on your car’s make, model, and year. We’ll discuss how to identify the correct battery size shortly.
- Precision screwdrivers (possibly): Some key fobs use tiny screws to secure the case. A set of precision screwdrivers, ranging from 1.4mm to 2.4mm, may be necessary if your fob has screws.
- Tweezers (optional but helpful): Tweezers can be useful for handling the small battery, especially when removing the old one and inserting the new one.
- Your smartphone camera: Taking pictures during the process, especially after opening the fob, can be invaluable for remembering the placement of parts and battery orientation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Key Fob Battery
Follow these simple steps to successfully replace your key fob battery:
Step 1: Identify Your Key Fob Battery Type
Before you take anything apart, determine the correct battery your key fob requires.
- Check your key fob case: Many key fobs have the battery type embossed on the back or inside the battery compartment. Look for markings like “CR2032,” “CR1620,” or similar codes.
- Consult your owner’s manual: Your vehicle’s owner’s manual usually contains information about the key fob, including the battery type.
- Online resources: Websites like the battery manufacturer’s sites or online retailers often have battery finders where you can input your car’s make, model, and year to find the compatible key fob battery.
- Open the fob carefully (if needed): If you can’t find the battery type externally, you may need to carefully open the fob to check the battery already inside. Proceed gently to avoid damaging the case before you have the replacement battery.
It’s crucial to have the correct battery type before you start. Using the wrong battery can lead to your key fob not working or even damage it. Common key fob batteries include CR2032, CR2025, CR2016, CR1632, and CR1620.
Step 2: Open the Key Fob Case
Once you have your tools and the correct battery, it’s time to open the key fob.
- Examine the case: Look for a small notch or seam on the key fob case. This is usually where you’ll insert your flat-head screwdriver or watch knife.
- Use gentle pressure: Insert the tip of your tool into the notch or seam. Apply gentle, steady pressure to pry the case open. Avoid forcing it, as this could damage the plastic clips that hold the case together.
- Work around the seam: Once you’ve created a small opening, carefully work your tool around the entire seam of the key fob. This will gradually loosen the fasteners holding the two halves of the case together.
- Separate the case: Once all the fasteners are released, the key fob case should separate into two halves. Set the top half aside carefully, keeping the internal components exposed.
Step 3: Take a Photo of the Inside (Highly Recommended)
Before you remove the old battery, take a clear photo of the inside of the key fob with your smartphone. This is a crucial step for several reasons:
- Battery orientation: The photo will clearly show the orientation of the old battery (+ positive side up or down). This is vital for inserting the new battery correctly.
- Component placement: Key fobs can have small internal parts. The photo serves as a reference for putting everything back in its correct place during reassembly.
- Wiring and circuit board: The photo helps you avoid disturbing any delicate wiring or the circuit board while removing the battery.
This simple step can save you from potential headaches and ensure a smooth reassembly process.
Step 4: Remove the Old Battery
Now, carefully remove the old battery from the key fob.
- Note the battery’s position: Observe how the battery is held in place. Some fobs have small clips, metal arms, or plastic retainers holding the battery.
- Use tweezers or your fingertip: Gently use tweezers or your fingertip to lift the old battery out of its compartment. If there are clips or retainers, you may need to slightly move them aside to release the battery.
- Avoid touching the circuit board: Be careful not to touch or disturb any of the circuit board components or wiring inside the key fob while removing the battery.
Step 5: Insert the New Battery
With the old battery removed, it’s time to install the new one.
- Match the orientation: Refer to the photo you took in Step 3 to ensure you insert the new battery in the correct orientation (+ positive side up or down). Most coin cell batteries have a “+” symbol on the positive side.
- Slide or press into place: Slide or press the new battery into the battery compartment, ensuring it’s securely seated and making good contact with the terminals. You should feel it click or snap into place if there are retaining clips.
- Double-check orientation: Before closing the case, visually double-check that the new battery is installed with the correct polarity.
Step 6: Reassemble the Key Fob Case
Finally, reassemble the key fob case.
- Align the case halves: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob case.
- Snap the case shut: Press the two halves firmly together until they snap back into place. You should hear a click as the fasteners re-engage.
- Ensure it’s securely closed: Inspect the case to ensure there are no gaps and that it’s fully and securely closed.
Test Your Key Fob
After reassembling the key fob, test it to ensure the new battery is working correctly. Press the unlock, lock, and other buttons to verify that your car responds as expected.
If your key fob still doesn’t work, double-check the following:
- Battery orientation: Make sure the battery is inserted correctly (+/- polarity).
- Battery type: Confirm you used the correct battery type for your key fob.
- Case closure: Ensure the key fob case is completely closed and the battery is making good contact.
- Internal damage: If you suspect any internal damage during the process, or if the fob still doesn’t work after trying a new battery, it might be time to consult a professional or consider a key fob replacement.
Tips for a Smooth Key Fob Battery Change
- Work on a clean, flat surface: This prevents small parts from rolling away and getting lost.
- Take your time and be gentle: Rushing or forcing components can lead to damage.
- If screws are present: If your key fob has screws, use the correct size precision screwdriver to avoid stripping the screw heads.
- Consider a spare battery: Keep a spare key fob battery on hand, so you’re prepared for future battery replacements.
- Store old batteries responsibly: Dispose of old batteries properly at designated battery recycling locations.
Changing your key fob battery is a simple DIY task that can save you time and money. By following these steps and taking your time, you can easily restore your key fob to its full functionality and avoid the inconvenience of a dead remote.
