Is your Dodge key fob starting to act up? Perhaps you’re finding you need to be closer and closer to your vehicle for it to unlock, or maybe it’s just stopped working altogether. One of the most common culprits is a dead or dying key fob battery. The good news is, changing the battery in your Dodge key fob is a straightforward process you can easily do yourself in just a few minutes. No need for a trip to the dealership or a mechanic! This guide will walk you through the simple steps to replace your Dodge key fob battery and get you back to unlocking your car with ease.
Before you start, it’s helpful to gather the few items you’ll need for this quick DIY task.
Tools You’ll Need
- A new CR2032 battery: This is the standard battery for most Dodge key fobs and is readily available at most auto parts stores, pharmacies, and online retailers.
- A small flathead screwdriver or a similar flat, thin tool: This will help you gently pry open the key fob casing. A plastic trim tool can also work to prevent scratches.
Once you have your tools ready, follow the steps below that correspond to your type of Dodge key fob. There are generally two types: the more modern key fobs and those from older models. Let’s start with the steps for the modern key fob.
Step-by-Step Guide for Modern Dodge Key Fobs
This type of key fob usually doesn’t require being inserted into the dashboard to start your vehicle.
Step 1: Remove the Emergency Key
Locate the lever or button on the back of your key fob. Slide or press it to release the emergency key. Pull the emergency key out and set it aside in a safe place.
Step 2: Prepare Your Tools for Opening
Now you’ll need your flathead screwdriver or similar tool. Examine the key fob, specifically the bottom edge where the emergency key was housed.
Step 3: Open the Key Fob Casing
You’ll notice a small slot or seam in the area where the emergency key was. This is where you need to insert your flat tool. Gently insert the flathead screwdriver into the slot and carefully pry the two halves of the key fob apart. Work your way around the seam if needed until the casing begins to separate.
Step 4: Battery Replacement
Once the fob is open, you’ll see the internal electronics and the battery. Take note of how the battery is positioned in its housing, paying attention to the positive (+) and negative (-) sides. Use your flat tool to gently slide the old battery out of its place.
Grab your new CR2032 battery and slide it into the housing in the same orientation as the old one. If you’re unsure, look for the “+” symbols on the battery compartment as a guide to ensure correct polarity.
Step 5: Reassemble the Key Fob
Take the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly back together until they click securely. Make sure there are no gaps and the casing is fully closed. Finally, slide the emergency key back into its slot until it clicks into place.
Step-by-Step Guide for Older Dodge Key Fobs
If your Dodge is an older model and requires you to insert the key fob into the dashboard to start the car, you likely have this type of key fob. The process is slightly different but still easy.
Step 1: Remove the Emergency Key
Just like with the modern fob, begin by removing the emergency key. Locate the release lever or button on the back and remove the key.
Step 2: Locate and Remove the Small Screw
Flip the key fob over so the buttons are facing down and the rounded end is pointing upwards. You’ll see a tiny Phillips head screw. Use a small Phillips head screwdriver to carefully remove this screw and set it aside.
Step 3: Open the Key Fob Casing
With the screw removed, you can now use your flathead screwdriver or plastic trim tool to gently pry open the two halves of the key fob. Insert your tool into the seam, usually starting near where the screw was, and carefully separate the casing.
Step 4: Battery Replacement
Once open, you’ll see an inner piece containing the electronics and the battery. Carefully lift this inner piece out and flip it over to access the battery. Again, note the orientation of the battery before removing it. Use your flat tool to slide the old battery out.
Insert your new CR2032 battery, ensuring the polarity matches the markings in the battery compartment.
Step 5: Reassemble the Key Fob
Carefully place the inner piece back into the key fob casing. Align the two halves of the casing and press them together until they snap shut. Replace the small Phillips head screw and tighten it gently. Finally, re-insert the emergency key.
You’re All Set!
Congratulations! You’ve successfully changed your Dodge key fob battery. Test your key fob to ensure it’s working correctly. With a fresh battery, your key fob should be responsive and reliable once again. Changing your key fob battery is a simple and cost-effective way to maintain your vehicle and avoid the inconvenience of a non-functioning key fob.
