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 simple task you can easily do yourself at home. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you can quickly and efficiently replace your key fob battery and get back on the road with confidence.
Just like any battery-operated device, the battery in your Honda key fob will eventually need replacing. While key fobs are designed to last for a couple of years, factors like usage frequency and environmental conditions can affect battery life. You might start noticing a decreased range when trying to lock or unlock your car, or your Honda might display a warning message on the instrument panel indicating a low key fob battery.
Ignoring this warning can lead to inconvenience, potentially leaving you unable to unlock your car remotely. Fortunately, replacing the battery is a straightforward process that doesn’t require any special tools or technical expertise. This guide provides a detailed, easy-to-follow approach to changing your Honda key fob battery, saving you time and money compared to visiting a dealership or mechanic.
Before you begin, gather the necessary items:
- A new CR2032 battery: This is the standard battery type for most Honda key fobs. You can find these batteries at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers. Consider buying a multipack to save money, especially if you have multiple key fobs.
- A small flathead screwdriver: This will be used to gently pry open the key fob and remove the old battery. A small eyeglass repair screwdriver works perfectly.
Now, let’s get started with the battery replacement process:
Step 1: Remove the Emergency Key
The first step is to remove the mechanical emergency key from your Honda key fob. This key is a backup in case your car battery is dead, but it also helps in opening the key fob casing. Locate the small release button or switch on your key fob, usually on the side or bottom. Slide or press this release mechanism to detach and slide out the emergency key.
Step 2: Open the Key Fob Casing
Once the emergency key is removed, you’ll need to split the key fob casing into two halves to access the battery. Look for small tabs or slots along the seam of the key fob where the two halves join. The original Honda owner’s manual might suggest using a coin wrapped in cloth to prevent scratches. However, a more convenient and often more effective tool is the emergency key itself.
Insert the tip of your emergency key or a small flathead screwdriver into the slot near the tabs. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the key fob. You should feel a click, and the casing will begin to split open. Work your way around the seam, gently prying until the two halves are completely separated. Avoid using excessive force, as you could damage the plastic casing.
Step 3: Remove the Old Battery
With the key fob open, you’ll see the CR2032 battery and the circuit board. The battery is typically held in place by small retaining clips. The Honda owner’s manual advises caution to “avoid losing the buttons.” This refers to the fact that the circuit board is loosely placed and not firmly secured. If you’re not careful, you might accidentally dislodge the circuit board while trying to remove the battery, potentially causing the buttons to come loose.
To prevent this, place the open key fob flat on a table. This will help keep the circuit board in place. Use your small flathead screwdriver to gently pry the old battery out from under the retaining clips. Insert the screwdriver at the edge of the battery, as shown in the image, and gently lift upwards. The battery should pop out easily.
Step 4: Insert the New Battery
Now, take your new CR2032 battery and insert it into the battery compartment. Ensure the positive (+) side of the battery is facing upwards, which is usually indicated by a “+” symbol on the battery and/or the key fob casing. Slide one edge of the battery under the retaining clips and then press down on the other side until it snaps securely into place.
Step 5: Reassemble the Key Fob
With the new battery installed, it’s time to reassemble the key fob. Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing, ensuring they fit together correctly. Press firmly along the edges of the casing until you hear a click, indicating that the two halves are securely snapped back together.
A helpful tip for easier reassembly is to first align and squeeze the end of the fob opposite to where the emergency key is inserted. Once that end is secured, then squeeze the end where the emergency key goes. This can make snapping the case back together require less force.
Finally, slide the emergency key back into the key fob until it clicks into place.
Congratulations! You have successfully replaced the battery in your Honda key fob. Test the key fob to ensure it is working correctly by locking and unlocking your car remotely. The low battery warning message on your dashboard should now be gone.
To keep your key fob protected and looking new, consider purchasing a silicone cover. These covers are inexpensive and help prevent scratches and wear and tear.
Replacing your Honda key fob battery is a simple DIY task that can save you time and money. By following these easy steps, you can ensure your key fob is always powered and ready to use.
