Is your car key fob acting up? Do you have to press the buttons multiple times to lock or unlock your doors? Before you rush to the dealership for an expensive replacement, the solution might be simpler than you think: a key fob battery change.
Just like any battery, the one in your car key fob wears out over time. Fortunately, replacing it is often a straightforward DIY task that can save you time and money. As car repair experts at keyfobx.com, we’re here to guide you through the process of changing your key fob battery quickly and efficiently.
While you could seek professional help at a dealership or auto repair shop, or even your local battery store, changing your key fob battery yourself is a convenient option. It’s considerably easier than replacing your car’s main battery and typically requires only a few common tools and a new battery.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to successfully perform a key fob battery change, ensuring you can get your car remote working like new again in no time. Let’s get started!
Tools You’ll Need for a Key Fob Battery Change
Before you begin, gather these simple tools to make the key fob battery change process smooth:
- Small Flathead Screwdriver or Watch Knife: For carefully prying open the key fob case.
- Replacement Battery: Usually a CR2032 coin cell battery. Check your owner’s manual or the old battery for the correct type.
- Precision Screwdriver Set: May be needed if your key fob has small screws. Sizes like 1.4mm or 2.4mm are common.
- Tweezers (Optional): To help handle the small battery.
- Smartphone Camera: To take pictures as a reference during disassembly.
With these tools ready, you’re prepared to tackle the key fob battery change.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change Your Key Fob Battery
Follow these steps carefully to replace your key fob battery:
1. Open the Key Fob Case
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Inspect your key fob: Look for a small notch or seam on the side of the fob. This is usually where you’ll need to insert your flathead screwdriver or watch knife.
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Gently pry it open: Insert the flat blade into the notch and twist gently. Avoid using excessive force, as you could damage the plastic case. Work your way around the seam, carefully separating the two halves of the key fob.
Image: Opening a car key fob with a watch knife.
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Consider screws: Some key fobs are held together by tiny screws instead of clips. If you don’t see a seam, look for screws and use a precision screwdriver to remove them. Store the screws in a safe place so you don’t lose them.
2. Identify and Remove the Old Battery
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Take a picture: Before removing anything, use your smartphone to take a clear photo of the inside of the key fob. Pay attention to the battery’s orientation (+ and – sides) and the position of any other components. This photo will be a helpful reference when you reassemble the fob.
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Locate the battery: The battery is usually a small, round coin cell battery. Note its size and type (e.g., CR2032, CR1620). You might find this information printed on the battery itself or embossed in the key fob case.
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Remove the old battery: Gently pry the old battery out of its compartment. Some key fobs have clips or metal pieces holding the battery in place. Use your tweezers or a small screwdriver to carefully move these aside if necessary.
3. Install the New Battery
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Install the new battery: Take your new replacement battery and install it in the same orientation as the old one. Refer to the photo you took earlier to ensure you place the positive (+) and negative (-) sides correctly.
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Ensure secure placement: Make sure the new battery is firmly seated in its compartment and any retaining clips or metal pieces are back in their original positions.
4. Close the Key Fob Case
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Reassemble the key fob: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob case and snap them back together. If your key fob had screws, reinsert and tighten them gently.
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Test your key fob: Once the case is closed, test your key fob by pressing the lock and unlock buttons. Your car should respond as expected. If it doesn’t work immediately, double-check that the battery is installed correctly and the case is fully closed.
Important Tips for a Successful Key Fob Battery Change
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Check your battery type: Before you start, check your owner’s manual or the old battery to identify the correct replacement battery type. Using the wrong battery can prevent your key fob from working. Most key fobs use CR2032, but others might require different sizes like CR1632, CR2025, or CR2450.
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Handle with care: Key fobs contain delicate electronic components. Be gentle when opening the case and handling the internal parts to avoid damage.
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Static electricity: While not usually a major concern for key fob batteries, grounding yourself by touching a metal object before handling the circuit board can minimize the risk of static discharge damaging sensitive electronics.
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If it doesn’t close easily: If the key fob case doesn’t snap back together easily, stop and re-examine the components. Make sure the battery is seated correctly and no parts are misaligned. Forcing it closed can damage the case.
When to Seek Professional Help
While changing a key fob battery is usually simple, there are situations where you might need professional assistance:
- Damaged key fob: If your key fob case is cracked or damaged, or if you accidentally damage internal components during the battery change, it’s best to seek professional repair or replacement services.
- Key fob still not working: If you’ve replaced the battery and your key fob still doesn’t work, there might be a more complex issue, such as a problem with the key fob’s programming or the car’s receiver. In these cases, a qualified technician can diagnose and fix the problem.
Changing your key fob battery is a simple and rewarding DIY task. By following these steps, you can often resolve key fob issues quickly and avoid unnecessary dealership costs. For more car maintenance tips and guides, visit keyfobx.com – your trusted resource for automotive expertise.
