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 request? It’s a common sign, and you’re likely dealing with a dying key fob battery. Before you rush to the dealership or spend money on a professional replacement, you should know that changing your key fob battery is often a straightforward task you can handle yourself.
While it’s true that key fob batteries aren’t designed for easy access like the main car battery, replacing them is generally much simpler than you might think. With just a few basic tools and a little patience, you can breathe new life into your key fob and avoid unnecessary expenses. However, it’s important to proceed carefully to avoid damaging your key fob, potentially leading to a complete key fob replacement.
Is your car key fob malfunctioning? The solution might be simpler than you imagine. You may already possess everything needed to restore its functionality.
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Yes, Replacing Your Key Fob Battery is Doable at Home
Changing your key fob battery yourself is absolutely achievable. Here’s what you’ll typically need to get the job done:
- A Thin, Flat Tool: A watch knife or a small flathead screwdriver works perfectly for gently prying open the key fob casing.
- Replacement Battery: Most key fobs use a CR2032 coin cell battery, widely available in stores. However, it’s crucial to confirm the correct battery type for your specific key fob.
- Precision Screwdriver (Possibly): Depending on your key fob model, you might need a small precision screwdriver (between 1.4mm and 2.4mm) to remove screws.
- Tweezers: These are helpful for handling the small battery and placing the new one correctly.
- Your Smartphone: Taking pictures during the process, especially after opening the fob, is a smart move for reference during reassembly.
The process for installing a new key fob battery usually involves these simple steps:
- Carefully open the key fob case.
- Remove the old, depleted battery.
- Insert the new, correct battery.
- Close the key fob case securely.
Watch store manager Joseph De La Rosa from Interstate All Battery Center in Surprise, Arizona, demonstrate the process. | Video: Joseph De La Rosa
Identifying the Correct Key Fob Battery Replacement
Before you even begin, it’s essential to determine the correct battery type for your key fob. Sometimes, the battery size is indicated directly on the key fob case itself. Check the back of your key fob or inside the key housing for any embossed markings.
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It’s frustrating to disassemble your key fob only to discover you’ve purchased the wrong replacement battery. While many car key fobs utilize the common CR2032 coin cell battery, variations exist depending on your car’s year, make, and model. For example, a Honda CR-V might require a CR1250 battery. Furthermore, while most key fobs use a single battery, some, like those for Ford Mustangs, require two.
If your key fob doesn’t explicitly state the required battery type, you’ll need to open it carefully to identify the battery inside.
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Gently Pry Open Your Key Fob Case
The key to successfully opening your key fob without damage is gentleness. Avoid forcing it open. Once you’ve identified a starting point, perhaps a small notch on the case, resist the urge to pull it apart forcefully from that single point. This can easily lead to breakage and the need for a complete key fob replacement.
Instead, use your flathead screwdriver or watch knife to carefully work your way around the seam of the case. Think of it like peeling an orange or apple. Apply steady, gentle pressure to gradually separate the fasteners holding the case together. You’ll likely hear small clicks as the fasteners release.
Is Your Car Battery Healthy? Get a Free Battery Test.
Ensure your car’s main battery is in top condition. Visit an Interstate All Battery Center or your local repair shop for a complimentary, comprehensive check of your charging and starting system.
Excessive force can cause the key fob to pop open abruptly, scattering its internal components. Take your time and work methodically to prevent this.
Capture a Photo of the Key Fob Interior After Opening
Key fob interiors can differ significantly, even across models from the same car manufacturer and year. Before you remove the old battery, taking a clear photograph of the open key fob is a highly recommended step. This simple precaution can be invaluable during reassembly.
Your photo will serve as a visual guide, preventing potential errors in putting the components back together correctly. It will also clearly show the battery orientation, indicating whether the positive (+) side faces up or down. This eliminates guesswork and ensures proper battery installation.
Handle the Internal Components with Care
Inside your key fob, you’ll find delicate wiring and a circuit board. It’s crucial to avoid disturbing these components. Mishandling them could indeed result in needing a new key fob.
Use tweezers or a similar precision tool to carefully lift the old battery out of its housing. Some key fobs have small clips or sliding metal pieces securing the battery. Gently move these aside to release the battery, but avoid attempting to remove the circuit board or any antennas.
The electronic circuits within your key fob maintain its programming with your car. Disturbing them unnecessarily can lead to reprogramming requirements. In such cases, you might need to visit your dealership or select Interstate All Battery Center locations for car key fob replacement programming.
Power Both Your Car and Key Fob with Interstate®
Choose the trusted power of Interstate for both your car battery and your key fob battery. Find long-lasting batteries for all your needs at Interstate All Battery Center.
