Every Dodge vehicle owner knows the convenience of a key fob, but like any electronic device, the battery eventually needs replacing. Whether your key fob has stopped working or you’re proactively changing the battery, knowing how to open it is essential. This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions for opening your Dodge key fob, ensuring you can easily replace the battery and get back on the road. We’ll cover the two main types of Dodge key fobs, so you can find the instructions that match your key.
Opening a Modern Dodge Key Fob (Keyless Entry)
If your Dodge key fob is the type you typically keep in your pocket or purse and doesn’t require insertion into the dashboard to start the vehicle, follow these simple steps to open it:
Step 1: Locate and Slide the Emergency Key Lever
Turn your key fob over to access the back. You’ll find a small lever or button, usually located at the top or back of the fob. Slide or press this lever to release the mechanical emergency key. Once released, pull the emergency key straight out and set it aside in a safe place.
Step 2: Prepare a Flat, Thin Tool
To open the key fob casing, you’ll need a slim, flat tool. A small flathead screwdriver is ideal, but you can also use a thin plastic pry tool or even the edge of a sturdy plastic card. Avoid using overly sharp or thick tools that could damage the fob casing.
Step 3: Pry Open the Key Fob Casing
Examine the bottom of the key fob, where the emergency key was just removed. You should see a small slot or seam. This is where you’ll insert your flat tool. Gently insert the tip of your screwdriver or chosen tool into this slot. Apply slight, twisting pressure to carefully pry the two halves of the key fob apart. Work your tool around the seam if necessary, gently separating the top and bottom pieces.
Step 4: Access and Remove the Old Battery
Once the two halves of the key fob are separated, you’ll see the internal electronics and the battery compartment. The battery is usually a small, round, silver disc battery. Note the orientation of the battery before removing it – pay attention to which side is facing up (usually marked with a “+” sign). Use your flat tool again, if needed, to gently slide the old battery out of its housing.
Step 5: Install the New CR2032 Battery
Most Dodge key fobs use a CR2032 battery. You can find these batteries 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 correct direction (matching the orientation of the old battery or the markings in the compartment).
Step 6: Reassemble the Key Fob
Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing back together. Press them firmly until they click securely back into place. Ensure there are no gaps and the casing is fully closed. Finally, slide the emergency key back into its slot until it clicks and locks into position. Your modern Dodge key fob is now open, the battery replaced, and ready to use.
Opening an Older Dodge Key Fob (Dashboard Insertion Type)
For older Dodge vehicles that require you to insert the key fob into the dashboard to start the ignition, the process is slightly different but still straightforward:
Step 1: Release the Emergency Key
Similar to the modern key fob, begin by locating and sliding the lever on the back of your older Dodge key fob. This will release the emergency key. Remove the key and set it aside.
Step 2: Locate and Remove the Phillips Head Screw
Flip the key fob so the buttons are facing down and the rounded end (where the key ring attaches) is pointing upwards. On the back of the fob, near the rounded end, you’ll see a tiny Phillips head screw. Use a small Phillips head screwdriver to carefully remove this screw. Keep the screw in a safe place so you don’t lose it.
Step 3: Separate the Key Fob Halves
With the screw removed, you can now separate the two halves of the key fob casing. You might be able to gently pull them apart by hand, or you may need to use a flat, thin tool like a flathead screwdriver. Insert the tool into the seam where the two halves meet and gently pry them apart.
Step 4: Access and Remove the Battery
Once open, you’ll see an inner piece containing the electronics and the battery. Carefully lift this inner piece out of the fob casing and flip it over to access the battery compartment. Again, note the battery’s orientation before removal. Use your flat tool to slide the old battery out of its housing.
Step 5: Insert the New CR2032 Battery
Install a new CR2032 battery, ensuring the correct polarity (+ side up). Slide the new battery into the compartment until it is securely in place.
Step 6: Reassemble and Secure 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. Reinstall the small Phillips head screw and tighten it gently to secure the casing. Finally, slide the emergency key back into its slot. Your older Dodge key fob is now reassembled and ready for use.
By following these steps, you can confidently open your Dodge key fob and replace the battery yourself, saving time and money. Remember to always double-check the battery type (usually CR2032) and ensure correct polarity when installing the new battery. If you encounter any difficulties, consulting your Dodge owner’s manual or contacting a local Dodge dealership or automotive locksmith for assistance is always a good option.
