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 your key fob battery is dying and it’s time to consider how to change the battery in your key fob.
Many people think a trip to the dealership or a professional mechanic is necessary for a key fob battery replacement. However, you can often change the battery in your key fob yourself, saving time and money. Replacing your car key fob battery is a straightforward process that requires minimal tools and a little bit of patience. While it’s simpler than replacing your car’s main battery, carefulness is key to avoid damaging your fob and needing a complete key fob replacement.
If you’re wondering “how do I Change The Battery In My Key Fob?”, the good news is you likely already have everything you need to give your car key remote a new lease of life.
DIY Key Fob Battery Replacement: What You’ll Need
Changing your key fob battery yourself is easier than you might think. Here’s a list of tools you’ll typically need for a successful key fob battery replacement:
- A thin, flat tool: A watch knife or a small flathead screwdriver works perfectly for carefully prying open the key fob casing.
- Replacement Battery: Most key fobs use a common CR2032 coin cell battery, readily available at most drugstores, supermarkets, and battery retailers. However, it’s crucial to check your key fob for the correct size.
- Precision Screwdriver (possibly): Depending on your key fob model, you might need a small precision screwdriver (around 1.4mm to 2.4mm) to remove screws holding the case together.
- Tweezers: Tweezers can be very helpful for handling the small battery and placing the new one correctly.
- Smartphone Camera: This is an essential tool! Use your phone to take pictures as you disassemble the fob, ensuring you can put it back together correctly.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change Your Key Fob Battery
Follow these simple steps to change the battery in your key fob and get your remote working like new:
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Open the Key Fob Casing: Carefully inspect your key fob to determine how it opens. Some fobs have screws that need to be removed, while others simply snap together. If there are no screws, locate a small notch or seam on the fob casing. This is where you’ll insert your thin, flat tool.
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Pry the Case Open Gently: Using your watch knife or flathead screwdriver, gently insert the tool into the notch or seam and twist or pry to start separating the two halves of the key fob case. Work your way around the seam slowly and carefully, avoiding excessive force that could damage the plastic casing.
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Identify the Battery Type: Once the case is open, you’ll see the battery. Take note of the battery type printed on it. Common types are CR2032, CR2025, or CR1632. This ensures you purchase the correct replacement battery.
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Remove the Old Battery: In most cases, the battery is held in place by small clips or pressure. Use your tweezers or fingertip to gently remove the old battery. Pay attention to the orientation of the battery – specifically, note which side is facing up (usually the positive (+) side).
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Insert the New Battery: Take your new battery and insert it into the battery compartment, matching the correct orientation (positive side up if that was the original orientation). Ensure the battery is securely seated in its place.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob case and snap them back together. If your fob had screws, tighten them gently but firmly. Make sure the case is fully closed and secure.
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Test Your Key Fob: Press the buttons on your key fob to test if it’s working correctly. Your car should respond to the lock, unlock, and panic buttons.
Finding the Right Key Fob Battery Replacement Size
Before you start the process, it’s wise to determine the correct battery size for your key fob. Sometimes, the battery type is indicated on the back of the key fob itself or inside the battery compartment. Look for embossed letters and numbers that indicate the battery model (like CR2032).
If you can’t find the battery type marked on the fob, don’t worry. Opening the key fob carefully as described above will allow you to identify the battery currently inside. Taking a picture with your phone before removing the battery is a great way to remember the type and orientation.
Opening Your Key Fob Without Damage
The most crucial part of changing your key fob battery is opening the case without breaking it. Rushing or using excessive force can easily damage the delicate plastic and lead to needing a complete key fob replacement.
When prying open the case, work slowly and methodically around the seam. If you encounter resistance, don’t force it. Instead, re-examine the case for other potential openings or screws you might have missed. Wedge your tool gently and gradually increase pressure until the case starts to separate.
The Importance of Taking a Picture Inside
Key fobs can have different internal layouts, even for vehicles of the same make and model. Before you remove the old battery, taking a quick picture with your smartphone is an invaluable step.
This photo serves as a reference guide when you reassemble the fob. It ensures you put all the components back in their correct positions, including the battery orientation and any small plastic or rubber pieces that might be present. This simple precaution can prevent frustration and potential damage.
Handle the Key Fob Internals with Care
Inside your key fob are sensitive electronics, including the circuit board and wiring that communicate with your car. It’s essential to avoid touching or disturbing these components unnecessarily.
When removing and replacing the battery, use tweezers or a small tool to handle the battery itself. Avoid touching the circuit board or any visible wiring. Be especially careful not to dislodge any small components. Rough handling of the internal parts could lead to malfunction and the need for professional key fob reprogramming or even a new key fob.
Get Your Key Fob Battery and More at Interstate All Battery Center
Changing the battery in your key fob is a simple task you can confidently handle yourself. By following these steps and taking your time, you can restore your key fob’s functionality and avoid unnecessary dealership costs.
For a wide selection of key fob batteries, car batteries, and expert advice, visit your local Interstate All Battery Center. Find reliable power for your car and all your battery needs.
