Is your Dodge key fob acting up? Don’t get stranded! One of the most common issues with modern car keys is a dead battery. The good news is that replacing the battery in your Dodge key fob is a straightforward task you can easily handle yourself. This guide will walk you through the process for various types of Dodge key fobs, ensuring you can quickly regain full access to your vehicle.
Whether you drive a Dodge Charger, Challenger, RAM truck, or any other model in the Dodge lineup, a functional key fob is essential for remote locking, unlocking, and sometimes even starting your car. When your key fob starts to lose its range or becomes unresponsive, a battery replacement is usually the fix. Forget expensive dealership visits for a minor issue – with a few simple tools and a new battery, you can do it yourself in minutes.
This guide covers the two main types of Dodge key fobs you might encounter: those with a separate emergency key that slides out, and slightly older models which might have a small screw. No matter which type you have, the process is designed to be user-friendly.
Replacing the Battery in Modern Dodge Key Fobs
For most newer Dodge vehicles, the key fob is designed for easy battery access without any screws. Here’s how to replace the battery in these key fobs:
Step 1: Locate and Release the Emergency Key
On the back of your Dodge key fob, you’ll find a small lever or button. Slide or press this to release the mechanical emergency key. Pull the key out and set it aside in a safe place. This key is a backup to manually unlock your door if needed, and removing it exposes the next step for battery access.
Step 2: Prepare Your Tool
You’ll need a slim, flat tool to gently pry open the key fob casing. A flathead screwdriver is ideal, but you can also use a plastic trim removal tool or even a sturdy guitar pick if you’re careful. Avoid using anything too sharp that could scratch or damage the fob.
Step 3: Prying Open the Key Fob
Examine the bottom of the key fob, where the emergency key was housed. You should see a small slot or seam line. This is where you need to insert your flat tool. Gently wedge the tip of your screwdriver or chosen tool into this slot and carefully twist or pry. The goal is to separate the two halves of the key fob casing. Work your way around the seam if necessary, applying gentle pressure until the case begins to split.
Step 4: Accessing and Removing the Old Battery
Once the two halves of the key fob are separated, you’ll see the internal electronics and the round, flat battery. Take note of the battery’s orientation – specifically, how the “+” (positive) side is facing. This is crucial for installing the new battery correctly. Use your flat tool again to gently slide the old battery out of its housing. You might need to pry lightly at the edge of the battery to dislodge it.
Step 5: Installing the New Battery
Your Dodge key fob battery is most likely a CR2032 battery. This common type of battery is readily available at most auto parts stores, pharmacies, and online retailers. Take your new CR2032 battery and slide it into the battery compartment, ensuring the “+” side is facing the same way as the old battery was (usually upwards). It should snap or slide into place securely.
Step 6: Reassembling the Key Fob
Take the two halves of the key fob casing and carefully press them back together. You should hear a click or snap as they rejoin. Ensure the case is fully closed with no gaps. Finally, slide the emergency key back into its slot until it clicks into place.
Replacing the Battery in Older Dodge Key Fobs with Screws
Some older Dodge models might have key fobs that utilize a small Phillips head screw to secure the casing. The process is slightly different but still easy to manage:
Step 1: Release the Emergency Key
Just like with the modern fobs, start by releasing and removing the emergency key. Locate the lever on the back of the fob, slide it, and pull out the emergency key. Set it aside.
Step 2: Locate and Remove the Screw
Flip the key fob over so the buttons are facing down and the rounded key ring end is pointing upwards. Look closely at the back of the fob, near the top. You should see a tiny Phillips head screw. You’ll need a small Phillips head screwdriver to remove this screw. Turn the screw counterclockwise until it’s completely removed. Keep the screw in a safe place so you don’t lose it!
Step 3: Prying Open the Fob Casing
With the screw removed, you can now separate the two halves of the key fob. Use your flathead screwdriver or similar tool, as described earlier, to gently pry open the casing. Insert the tool into the seam, likely near where the screw was, and carefully twist or pry to separate the halves.
Step 4: Accessing and Replacing the Battery
Once open, you’ll see the inner workings of the key fob. Carefully lift out the inner circuit board piece to access the battery underneath. Flip the circuit board over to reveal the battery compartment. Note the orientation of the old battery before removing it. Use your flat tool to slide out the old battery.
Step 5: Install the New CR2032 Battery
Take your new CR2032 battery and slide it into the compartment, ensuring the “+” side is correctly oriented. Push it in until it’s securely in place.
Step 6: Reassembly – Putting It All Back Together
Carefully place the circuit board back into the key fob casing. Align the two halves of the fob and press them together until they snap shut. Now, take the small Phillips head screw you removed earlier and carefully screw it back into place, tightening it clockwise until snug. Do not overtighten. Finally, slide the emergency key back into its slot.
Battery Type and Where to Purchase
As mentioned, the vast majority of Dodge key fobs use a CR2032 battery. It’s always a good idea to double-check the markings on your old battery before purchasing a replacement to be absolutely sure. CR2032 batteries are widely available at:
- Auto Parts Stores: Stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and O’Reilly Auto Parts will carry CR2032 batteries.
- Pharmacies: Drugstores like Walgreens and CVS usually stock these batteries in their battery or electronics sections.
- Big Box Retailers: Stores like Walmart and Target will also have CR2032 batteries available.
- Online Marketplaces: Amazon and other online retailers offer a wide selection of CR2032 batteries, often in bulk for better value.
Quick Tips for a Smooth Battery Replacement
- Gentle is Key: When prying open the key fob, use gentle and consistent pressure to avoid damaging the plastic casing.
- Battery Orientation: Always pay attention to the orientation of the old battery before removing it. This ensures you install the new one correctly.
- Test After Replacement: After reassembling your key fob, test it immediately to ensure the new battery is working and your key fob is functioning properly.
Replacing your Dodge key fob battery is a simple and cost-effective way to maintain your vehicle’s functionality. By following these steps, you can avoid unnecessary trips to the dealership and keep your key fob working perfectly. Check back with DodgeGarage for more helpful DIY guides and maintenance tips to keep your Dodge vehicle running smoothly.
