Is your Honda key fob displaying a low battery warning on your dashboard? Don’t worry, replacing the battery in your Honda key fob is a straightforward task you can easily do yourself. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step walkthrough to help you change your Honda key fob battery, saving you time and potentially money compared to dealership service. Key fobs are essential for modern vehicles, and keeping them powered ensures seamless access and operation of your Honda’s features.
Like any battery-powered device, the battery in your Honda key fob will eventually need replacing. Typically, you can expect to replace it every few years, depending on usage. Ignoring the low battery warning can lead to inconvenience, so it’s best to address it promptly. Using a spare key fob temporarily is a good short-term solution while you prepare to replace the battery in your primary fob.
The owner’s manual provides basic instructions, but sometimes a visual guide and extra tips can be helpful. While the manual offers a starting point, many owners seek clearer, more detailed instructions before attempting this themselves, especially given the value of these small but crucial devices.
Many online resources, including YouTube videos, offer general guidance on key fob battery replacement. This guide aims to provide Honda owners with specific, photo-illustrated instructions for changing their key fob battery, addressing any hesitations about performing this DIY task.
What You’ll Need to Change Your Honda Key Fob Battery
Before you begin, gather these simple tools and supplies:
- New CR2032 Battery: This is the standard 3V coin cell battery used in most Honda key fobs. Consider purchasing a multipack to have spares for future replacements or other key fobs in your household. CR2032 batteries are widely available online and in stores.
- Small Flathead Screwdriver: This will be used to gently pry open the key fob and, if necessary, help remove the old battery. A small precision screwdriver from an eyeglass repair kit works perfectly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Honda Key Fob Battery
Follow these steps to replace your Honda key fob battery quickly and easily:
Step 1: Remove the Emergency Key
Locate the small release switch on your key fob. This switch is usually a small button or slider on the side or bottom of the fob. Slide or press the switch to release the mechanical emergency key. Pull the key out of the fob and set it aside.
Side Note on Emergency Key Functionality: The emergency key is not just for dead key fob batteries. It’s also crucial if your car’s 12V battery is dead, preventing electronic access. Importantly, on many Honda models, this key can also unlock the trunk via a lock cylinder located behind the driver-side rear passenger headrest. This is a valuable feature if your jump starter is in the trunk and your main car battery is inaccessible.
Step 2: Open the Key Fob Casing
With the emergency key removed, you’ll need to split the key fob casing. The owner’s manual may suggest using a coin. However, a more convenient and often readily available tool is the emergency key itself.
Locate the small tabs or slots on the key fob where the two halves of the casing meet. These are typically near where you removed the emergency key. Insert the emergency key (or a coin) into the slot, applying gentle twisting pressure to separate the two halves of the fob. The emergency key often fits perfectly into these slots, suggesting it’s designed for this purpose.
Step 3: Remove the Old Battery
Once the fob is open, you’ll see the CR2032 battery. The instructions might caution about “losing the buttons.” This refers to the circuit board being loose within the fob. The buttons are attached to the circuit board, and if you lift the board while trying to remove the battery, the buttons can become dislodged.
To avoid this, lay the key fob flat on a table. Use your small flathead screwdriver to gently pry the old battery out. There are usually small tabs holding the battery in place. Insert the screwdriver under the edge of the battery and gently lift upwards to pop it out. Keeping the fob flat prevents the circuit board from lifting and disturbing the buttons.
Step 4: Insert the New Battery
Take your new CR2032 battery and insert it into the battery compartment. Make sure the positive (+) side of the battery is facing upwards, as indicated by the markings in the battery compartment. Slide the battery under the retaining tabs on one side and then press down on the other side until it snaps into place.
Step 5: Close the Key Fob
Reassemble the key fob by carefully aligning the two halves of the casing. Press them firmly together until they snap securely shut. Start by aligning and squeezing the end opposite to where the emergency key inserts, then move to the key end for easier closure. You should hear a click or snap as the two halves lock together.
Once reassembled, test your key fob to ensure it’s working correctly. The low battery warning on your Honda’s dashboard should disappear.
Conclusion
Changing your Honda key fob battery is a simple maintenance task that any Honda owner can perform. By following these steps, you can confidently replace your battery and keep your key fob functioning perfectly. This DIY approach saves you time and money, and ensures you’re never caught off guard by a dead key fob battery. To further protect your key fob from scratches and wear, consider purchasing a silicone cover for added durability and style.
