Is your car key fob starting to feel a little… unresponsive? Maybe you have to press the buttons multiple times to lock or unlock your doors, or perhaps the range seems shorter than it used to be. The culprit is likely a dying battery. Before you rush to a dealership or repair shop, you should know that replacing your key fob battery is a surprisingly simple task you can handle yourself. This guide from keyfobx.com will walk you through the process of how to put a new battery in your key fob, saving you time and money.
Changing your key fob battery is much easier than tackling other car maintenance tasks, like changing your car battery itself. With just a few common household tools and the right replacement battery, you can give your key fob a new lease on life. Let’s dive into the steps and get your key fob working like new again.
Tools You’ll Need to Replace Your Key Fob Battery
Before you begin, gather these simple tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and efficient:
- Small Flathead Screwdriver or Watch Knife: This is crucial for carefully prying open the key fob case without damaging it. A thin blade works best.
- Replacement Battery: The most common type is a CR2032 coin cell battery, readily available at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers. However, it’s vital to check your key fob for the correct battery type before you buy. We’ll explain how to do this shortly.
- Precision Screwdriver Set (Optional): Some key fobs use tiny screws to secure the case. A precision screwdriver set will ensure you have the right size. Sizes between 1.4mm and 2.4mm are often suitable.
- Tweezers (Optional): Tweezers can be helpful for removing and inserting the small battery, especially in tight spaces.
- Smartphone Camera: This is highly recommended! Taking pictures as you disassemble your key fob will be invaluable when putting it back together.
Opening a key fob with a watch knife is straightforward, as demonstrated by Mike Harris, Interstate All Battery Center manager of production and engineering.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Put a New Battery in Your Key Fob
Now that you have your tools, let’s get to the actual battery replacement. Follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Identify Your Key Fob Battery Type
Before you even open your key fob, try to determine what type of battery it needs. Many key fobs have the battery size embossed on the back of the fob or inside the key compartment. Look closely for markings. Common battery types include CR2032, CR2025, and CR1632.
If you can’t find the battery type on the fob itself, don’t worry. Proceed to the next step to open the case and check the battery directly. Knowing the battery type beforehand ensures you buy the correct replacement and avoid unnecessary trips to the store.
Step 2: Carefully Open the Key Fob Case
This is often the trickiest part, but with patience, you can do it without damage.
- Inspect the Key Fob Case: Look for a small notch or seam around the edge of the fob. This is where you’ll insert your flathead screwdriver or watch knife.
- Insert and Twist Gently: Insert the tip of your tool into the notch or seam. Gently twist or pry to start separating the case halves. Do not force it! Applying too much pressure can crack the plastic.
- Work Around the Seam: Once you’ve created a small opening, carefully work your tool around the entire seam of the key fob. Think of it like peeling an orange – take your time and apply steady, gentle pressure. You should hear small clicks as the fasteners release.
Step 3: Take a Photo of the Inside (Crucial!)
Before you remove the old battery, take a clear photo of the inside of the key fob with your smartphone. This is an essential step! Key fobs can have various internal layouts, even for similar car models. Your photo will serve as a visual guide when you reassemble the fob, ensuring all parts go back in the correct place. Pay close attention to the battery orientation (+ and – signs).
Step 4: Remove the Old Battery
- Note the Battery Orientation: Before removing the old battery, double-check its orientation. Notice which side is facing up (+ or -). This is critical for installing the new battery correctly.
- Use Tweezers or Your Fingertip: Gently remove the old battery. Tweezers can be helpful, but you can often use your fingertip as well. Some fobs have a small clip or retaining mechanism holding the battery in place. If so, carefully disengage it before removing the battery.
Step 5: Insert the New Key Fob Battery
- Install the New Battery: Place the new battery into the battery compartment, ensuring the orientation matches the photo you took and the markings inside the case (+ and -). The positive (+) side usually faces upwards.
- Ensure Secure Placement: Make sure the new battery is securely seated in its compartment.
Step 6: Reassemble the Key Fob Case
- Align the Case Halves: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob case.
- Snap the Case Shut: Press the case halves firmly together until they snap back into place. You should hear a click confirming they are securely closed. Ensure there are no gaps.
- If Screws Were Removed: If your key fob had screws, reinsert and tighten them gently. Avoid over-tightening.
Step 7: Test Your Key Fob
Finally, test your key fob to ensure it’s working correctly. Try locking and unlocking your car doors, and test the panic button if your fob has one. If everything works, congratulations! You’ve successfully put a new battery in your key fob and saved yourself a trip to the mechanic or dealership.
Important Tips and Warnings
- Gentle is Key: Always be gentle when opening and disassembling your key fob. Forcing it can lead to damage and the need for a complete key fob replacement.
- Static Electricity: While not usually a major concern for key fob batteries, try to avoid touching the battery terminals directly with your fingers. Static electricity could potentially discharge the battery.
- Correct Battery Type: Using the wrong battery type can damage your key fob or prevent it from working. Always verify the correct battery type before purchasing and installing.
- Lost Parts: Work in a clean, well-lit area to avoid losing any small parts from inside the key fob.
- If It Doesn’t Work: If your key fob still doesn’t work after replacing the battery, double-check the battery orientation and ensure the battery is the correct type. If problems persist, you may need to consult a professional.
Replacing your key fob battery is a straightforward DIY task that can save you money and hassle. By following these steps and taking your time, you can easily put a new battery in your key fob and get back on the road with a fully functional remote.
