It’s a common experience for Acura owners: the day your key fob battery starts to weaken. While modern Acura key fobs are designed for longevity, proactively replacing the battery is a smart piece of maintenance that can save you from inconvenience down the road. Changing the battery in your Acura key fob is a straightforward process you can easily do yourself, saving you time and a trip to the dealership. This guide will walk you through each step to replace your Acura key fob battery efficiently.
Identifying the Battery Type for Your Acura Key Fob
Before you begin, it’s essential to know the correct battery type for your Acura key fob. Acura key fobs typically use a CR2032 3-volt lithium coin cell battery. This type of battery is widely available at most drug stores, supermarkets, and electronics retailers. You can also find them online. To be absolutely sure, you can check your owner’s manual or, once you open your key fob, you can read the battery type printed directly on the old battery. Having the right battery beforehand will make the replacement process smooth and quick.
Step-by-Step Guide to Acura Key Fob Battery Replacement
Replacing the battery in your Acura key fob is a simple DIY task. Follow these steps for a quick and easy battery replacement:
Step 1: Remove the Mechanical Key
Locate the small release button on your Acura key fob. Press and hold this button to release the mechanical key. Slide the key out and set it aside. This key is a backup and also helps in opening the key fob casing.
Step 2: Open the Key Fob Casing
With the mechanical key removed, you’ll see a slot or seam where the two halves of the key fob casing join. Use the mechanical key itself, or a small coin, to gently pry open the casing. Insert the edge of the key or coin into the slot and carefully twist to separate the two halves. The casing should pop open without much force.
Step 3: Replace the Old Battery
Once the key fob is open, you’ll see the battery. Take note of the battery’s orientation, specifically the positive (+) and negative (-) sides. Carefully remove the old battery. You might be able to gently pry it out with your fingertip, or use a small non-metallic tool if needed. Insert the new CR2032 battery, ensuring it’s placed in the same orientation as the old one.
Step 4: Reassemble the Key Fob
Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob casing back together. Press firmly until you hear a click, ensuring that the casing is securely closed. Slide the mechanical key back into the key fob until it locks into place.
Understanding Acura Key Fob Battery Voltage and Lifespan
Typically, a new CR2032 battery will have a voltage around 3.2 to 3.3 volts. As the battery ages and is used, this voltage will gradually decrease. In the original key fob battery example, even after two years of use, the old batteries still measured around 2.93 to 2.95 volts. This suggests that these batteries can last for several years under normal usage. However, factors like extreme temperatures and frequency of use can affect battery life. Proactive replacement every 2-3 years is a reasonable approach to avoid unexpected key fob battery failure.
Conclusion
Replacing the battery in your Acura key fob is a simple and cost-effective way to maintain your vehicle’s keyless entry system. By following these steps, you can ensure your key fob remains reliable, giving you peace of mind and preventing potential lockouts. Regularly replacing your Acura key fob battery is a small piece of maintenance that can make a big difference in your daily driving experience.
