Is your car key fob becoming less responsive? Do you have to press the buttons multiple times to lock or unlock your doors? It might be a sign that your key fob battery is dying and needs a replacement. Don’t worry, replacing your key fob battery is a straightforward task you can easily do yourself, saving you time and money compared to visiting a dealership or repair shop.
While it might seem daunting, changing the battery in your car key fob is actually much simpler than replacing your car battery. With just a few common tools and a new lithium battery, you can restore your key fob to its full functionality. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of a key fob battery replacement, ensuring you can confidently tackle this task.
Tools You’ll Need for Key Fob Battery Replacement
Before you begin, gather these simple tools to make the key fob battery replacement process smooth and efficient:
- Small Flathead Screwdriver or Watch Knife: This will be used to gently pry open the key fob casing. A watch knife or a very thin blade is ideal to avoid damaging the plastic.
- Replacement Battery: Most key fobs use a CR2032 coin cell battery, readily available at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers. However, it’s crucial to check your key fob for the exact battery type it requires (we’ll discuss this further below).
- Precision Screwdriver Set (1.4mm to 2.4mm): Depending on your key fob model, you might need a small precision screwdriver to remove screws securing the case.
- Tweezers (Optional): Tweezers can be helpful for removing and installing the small battery, especially in tight spaces.
- Smartphone Camera: This is a highly recommended tool! Taking pictures as you disassemble the key fob will be invaluable for reassembly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Key Fob Battery
Follow these simple steps to replace your key fob battery and breathe new life into your car remote:
Step 1: Open the Key Fob Casing
Carefully inspect your key fob casing. Some models have a small notch or slot designed for opening. Use your flathead screwdriver or watch knife to gently pry open the case at this point. If there’s no obvious notch, carefully examine the seam around the fob and find a point where you can insert your tool.
Important: Be gentle and patient. Avoid forcing the case open, as this could damage the plastic or internal components. Work your tool around the seam, gently separating the two halves of the key fob casing.
Step 2: Identify the Battery Type
Once the case is open, take a moment to identify the type of battery your key fob uses. Many key fobs use a CR2032 battery, but others may require different sizes like CR2025, CR2016, or CR1620.
Tip: Look for markings on the old battery itself or inside the key fob case. Note down the battery type to ensure you purchase the correct replacement.
Step 3: Remove the Old Battery
Carefully remove the old battery. In some key fobs, the battery is held in place by small clips or a retaining mechanism. Use your tweezers or fingertip to gently lift or slide the battery out of its compartment.
Step 4: Install the New Battery
Take your new key fob battery and install it in the same orientation as the old one. Pay close attention to the polarity (+ and – signs) marked on the battery and inside the battery compartment. Ensure the positive (+) side of the battery is facing the correct direction, as indicated in your key fob.
Step 5: Reassemble the Key Fob
Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and snap them back together. Ensure the case is securely closed, and all parts fit snugly. If your key fob had screws, replace and tighten them gently.
Step 6: Test Your Key Fob
Test your key fob to ensure it’s working correctly. Press the lock, unlock, and panic buttons to verify that your car responds as expected. If everything works, congratulations! You’ve successfully completed your key fob battery replacement.
Finding the Right Key Fob Battery Replacement
As mentioned earlier, identifying the correct battery type is crucial for a successful key fob battery replacement. Here’s how to determine the right battery for your key fob:
- Check Your Key Fob Case: Some key fobs have the battery type embossed on the back of the case or inside the battery compartment. Look for markings like “CR2032,” “CR2025,” etc.
- Refer to Your Car Owner’s Manual: Your car’s owner’s manual may contain information about the key fob battery type.
- Open the Key Fob (Carefully): If you can’t find the battery type externally, carefully open your key fob (following Step 1 above) and check the markings on the existing battery.
- Online Resources: Websites like keyfobx.com (and others) often have battery guides or compatibility charts that can help you identify the correct battery based on your car’s make, model, and year.
Common Key Fob Battery Types:
- CR2032: This is the most common type of key fob battery.
- CR2025: Slightly thinner than CR2032, also frequently used.
- CR2016: Thinner still, used in slimmer key fobs.
- CR1620 & CR1632: Less common, but found in some key fobs.
Important Tips for Key Fob Battery Replacement
- Take Pictures: As emphasized earlier, taking pictures of the key fob internals before removing the battery is incredibly helpful for reassembly, especially if your key fob has multiple parts or a complex layout.
- Handle with Care: Key fobs contain delicate electronic components. Handle them gently and avoid touching the circuit board or wiring unnecessarily.
- Static Electricity: While not always necessary for simple battery replacement, grounding yourself to discharge static electricity can be a good precaution when handling electronic components.
- If in Doubt, Seek Professional Help: If you’re uncomfortable performing the key fob battery replacement yourself, or if you encounter any difficulties, don’t hesitate to visit a professional at a dealership, auto repair shop, or battery specialist like Interstate All Battery Center. They can quickly and efficiently replace your key fob battery for you.
Replacing your key fob battery is a simple DIY task that can save you from the inconvenience of a dead car remote and the expense of professional replacement services. By following these steps and tips, you can confidently perform a key fob battery replacement and keep your car keys working perfectly.
