It’s a familiar scenario for many car owners: you reach for your key fob to unlock your car, but nothing happens. Or perhaps you notice you need to be closer and closer to your vehicle for the remote to work. More often than not, the culprit is a dying battery in your key fob. The good news is that replacing a key fob battery is usually a simple and inexpensive task you can do yourself. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about key fob battery replacement, focusing on the cost and how to save money by doing it yourself.
Recognizing When Your Key Fob Battery Needs Replacing
Before your key fob completely stops working, it will often give you warning signs. Being aware of these can help you replace the battery before it becomes a major inconvenience. Here are some telltale signs that your car key battery is getting weak:
- Decreased Remote Range: You’ll find you need to be much closer to your car than usual for the doors to lock or unlock, or for the remote start to engage.
- Intermittent Button Response: You might press a button on your key fob and sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn’t, requiring multiple presses.
- Dashboard Warning Light: Some vehicles are equipped with a feature that alerts you with a warning light on your dashboard when your key fob battery is low.
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s a strong indication that a key fob battery replacement is needed soon. Addressing it promptly can prevent you from being locked out of your car or unable to start it remotely when you least expect it.
Step-by-Step Guide to DIY Key Fob Battery Replacement
Replacing your key fob battery at home is easier than you might think and requires minimal tools. Follow these simple steps to get your key fob working like new again:
Step 1: Determine the Correct Battery Type
The first crucial step is to identify the right type of replacement battery for your specific key fob. Your car’s owner’s manual is the best place to find this information. Alternatively, you can often find the battery type printed directly on the old battery once you open the fob, or on the back of the key fob itself. Common key fob batteries are coin-shaped lithium batteries like CR2032, CR2025, or CR2016.
If you are still unsure, a quick online search for “[your car make and model] key fob battery type” should provide the answer. Knowing the correct battery type ensures proper function and longevity.
Step 2: Open Your Key Fob Casing
Most key fobs are designed to be opened, although the method can vary slightly. Look for a small notch or seam on the side of the fob. You can usually use a small flat-head screwdriver or even the tip of your car key to gently pry the casing open at this point. Some newer key fobs are designed for tool-free battery replacement and may have a small release button or latch that allows you to open the case.
Be careful when opening the fob to avoid damaging the plastic housing. Gentle pressure is usually sufficient.
Step 3: Remove the Old Battery Carefully
Once the key fob is open, you’ll see the battery inside. Note the orientation of the old battery – specifically which side is facing up (positive or negative). This is important for installing the new battery correctly. You can typically pry out the old battery with your fingertip or the small screwdriver if it’s held snugly in place.
Step 4: Install the New Battery in the Correct Orientation
Take your new battery and insert it into the battery compartment, ensuring it’s placed in the same orientation as the old one you just removed. Double-check the positive (+) and negative (-) markings on both the battery and the key fob compartment to confirm correct polarity.
Using the wrong battery type or incorrect orientation can prevent the key fob from working.
Step 5: Reassemble the Key Fob
Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob casing back together. Press firmly until you hear or feel it click securely into place. Ensure there are no gaps and the fob is properly closed to protect the internal components.
Step 6: Test Your Key Fob Functionality
After reassembling the key fob, test it immediately. Press the lock, unlock, and any other buttons to confirm they are working as expected. Try the remote start if your vehicle has this feature. If everything functions correctly, you have successfully replaced your key fob battery! If it doesn’t work, re-open the fob and double-check the battery type and orientation, and ensure the battery contacts are clean.
What’s the Typical Cost to Replace a Key Fob Battery?
Now, let’s address the key question: “How Much To Replace Battery In Key Fob?” The cost is surprisingly low, especially if you opt for the DIY approach.
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Cost of the Battery: The most common coin cell batteries for key fobs, like CR2032 and CR2025, are very affordable. You can purchase these batteries for $2 to $10 each. Prices can vary slightly depending on the brand and where you buy them. Buying batteries in multi-packs online can often reduce the per-battery cost.
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Professional Service Cost: If you prefer not to replace the battery yourself, you can have it done at a car dealership or a local automotive repair shop. The labor cost for this service can range from $20 to $50. This brings the total cost, including the battery, to somewhere between $22 and $60.
As you can see, doing it yourself can save you a significant amount of money. The process is generally quick and easy, making it a worthwhile DIY task.
Where Can You Purchase Key Fob Batteries?
Finding replacement key fob batteries is convenient, as they are widely available at many retail locations:
- Pharmacies and Drugstores: Stores like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid typically carry a selection of coin cell batteries.
- Big Box Retailers: Walmart and Target are good options for purchasing batteries, often at competitive prices.
- Automotive Parts Stores: AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and O’Reilly Auto Parts will have the batteries you need, and staff can often assist you in finding the correct type.
- Online Retailers: Amazon and other online marketplaces offer a vast selection of key fob batteries, often in bulk or at discounted prices. This can be a cost-effective option if you want to have spare batteries on hand.
When purchasing, always double-check that you are buying the correct battery type for your key fob to ensure compatibility and proper operation.
Replacing your car key fob battery is a simple maintenance task that can save you money and prevent the frustration of a non-functional remote. By following these steps and understanding the costs involved, you can confidently handle this yourself and keep your key fob working perfectly. For more useful car maintenance tips and information, explore resources from reputable automotive websites and owner forums.
