Have you ever been stranded because your car key fob suddenly stopped working? It’s a common and frustrating experience, often caused by a dead battery. The good news is, changing the battery in your key fob is a simple task you can easily do yourself at home in just a few minutes. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, so you can get your key fob working again without any hassle.
Most key fobs are designed to be user-friendly when it comes to battery replacement. Typically, you’ll need just a few common household items: a small flathead screwdriver or similar tool, a new battery of the correct type, and of course, your key fob. Let’s dive into how to get that battery changed.
Step 1: Detach the Hidden Key
Before you can access the battery compartment, you’ll usually need to remove a physical key that’s hidden within the key fob itself. This detachable key is often designed as a backup in case the electronic functions fail, but it also cleverly conceals the key fob’s opening mechanism.
Look closely at your key fob and identify a section that appears to be a different color or texture, or perhaps a small button or release catch. This is likely the release for the hidden key. On many models, like the Dodge key fob shown below, this release is a small button that, when pressed, allows you to slide out the mechanical key.
Once you’ve located the release, press the button or slide the catch and gently pull the key out of the fob. Set the key aside in a safe place. Removing the key will often reveal the next step in opening the key fob casing.
Step 2: Open the Key Fob Casing
With the mechanical key removed, you should now see a small notch or seam where you can begin to open the key fob casing. Key fob casings are designed to snap together securely to protect the internal electronics, so they can sometimes be a little tight, especially the first time you open them.
This is where your small flathead screwdriver or prying tool comes in handy. Carefully insert the tip of the screwdriver into the notch or seam you identified. Gently twist or pry to start separating the two halves of the key fob.
Work your way around the seam of the key fob, gently prying as you go. Avoid applying excessive force in one spot, as this could damage the plastic casing. Be patient and work slowly, and the two halves of the key fob should gradually separate. Once open, you’ll have access to the battery compartment.
Step 3: Replace the Old Battery with a New One
With the key fob casing open, you’ll now see the battery. Before you remove the old battery, take a close look at how it’s positioned in the compartment. Note the orientation of the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals. This is crucial to ensure you install the new battery correctly.
Most key fobs use small, circular batteries, often CR2032, CR2025, or CR1632 types. The exact battery type will usually be printed on the battery itself. Make sure you have the correct replacement battery before proceeding. You can find these batteries at most drugstores, supermarkets, and auto parts stores.
Carefully remove the old battery. In some cases, it may be held in place by small clips. Gently pry it out with your fingertip or the edge of the screwdriver if necessary. Dispose of the old battery properly according to local regulations.
Install the new battery, making sure to match the orientation of the positive and negative terminals to how the old battery was installed. Push the new battery firmly into place until it’s securely seated in the compartment.
Step 4: Reassemble the Key Fob
Once the new battery is in place, it’s time to reassemble the key fob. Carefully align the two halves of the casing, making sure any rubber seals or buttons are properly positioned.
Press the two halves firmly together until they snap securely back into place. You should hear a clicking sound as the latches engage. Ensure there are no gaps between the two halves of the casing.
Finally, slide the mechanical key back into the key fob until it clicks into its locked position.
Test your key fob by pressing the lock and unlock buttons. The car doors should respond, indicating that the new battery is working correctly. If everything works as expected, you’ve successfully changed your key fob battery!
Changing your key fob battery is a straightforward maintenance task that can save you time and prevent the inconvenience of a non-functional key fob. By following these simple steps, you can keep your key fob powered and working reliably.
If you prefer a visual guide, or if you encounter any difficulties, we also offer instructional videos on our YouTube channel. And if you’d rather have a professional handle it, our service team at Dale Howard Auto Center is always ready to assist. Give us a call at 641-648-4695 or contact us online today!
