Is your Dodge key fob starting to feel a little unresponsive? Don’t worry, you’re likely just dealing with a dead battery. The good news is that replacing the battery in your Dodge key fob is a straightforward task you can easily handle yourself, saving you time and a trip to the dealership. This guide will walk you through the simple steps to replace your Dodge key fob battery, ensuring you’re back on the road with a fully functional remote in no time.
Replacing the battery in your Dodge key fob is a routine maintenance task every Dodge owner might encounter. Depending on the type of key fob your Dodge vehicle uses, the process is slightly different. Let’s break down the steps for both modern key fobs and older key fobs that require dashboard placement.
Replacing the Battery in Modern Dodge Key Fobs
If your Dodge uses a modern key fob that doesn’t need to be inserted into the dashboard to start the car, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Locate the Lever and Remove the Emergency Key
On the back of your key fob, you’ll find a small lever or button. Slide or press this to release the mechanical emergency key. Pull the key out and set it aside in a safe place. This key is a backup access method and you’ll need it later.
Step 2: Prepare a Flat-Sided Tool
You’ll need a thin, flat tool to gently pry open the key fob. A flathead screwdriver is ideal, but a plastic trim removal tool or even a butter knife can work carefully.
Step 3: Pry Open the Key Fob Casing
Examine the bottom of the key fob, where the emergency key was housed. You should see a small slot or seam. Insert your flat tool into this slot and gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the key fob casing. Take your time and avoid applying excessive force to prevent damage.
Step 4: Access and Remove the Old Battery
Once the fob is open, carefully separate the two pieces to reveal the internal electronics and the battery. The battery is usually a small, round, coin-cell type. Note the battery’s orientation before removing it – observe which side is facing up (usually marked with a “+” sign). Use your flat tool or your fingernail to carefully slide the old battery out of its housing.
Step 5: Install the New Battery
Most Dodge key fobs use a CR2032 battery. You can find these easily at most auto parts stores, drugstores, and online retailers. Take your new CR2032 battery and slide it into the battery housing, ensuring the “+” side is facing the correct way (matching the orientation of the old battery or the “+” markings in the battery compartment).
Step 6: Reassemble the Key Fob
Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly back together until they click securely. Finally, slide the emergency key back into its slot until it locks into place. That’s it – your modern Dodge key fob battery is replaced!
Replacing the Battery in Older Dodge Key Fobs
For older Dodge vehicles that use a key fob which needs to be placed in the ignition dashboard, the process is slightly different but still manageable:
Step 1: Release and Remove the Emergency Key
Just like with the modern fob, begin by locating the lever on the back of your older key fob to release and remove the emergency key. Set it aside.
Step 2: Locate and Remove the Phillips Head Screw
Flip the key fob over so the buttons are facing down and the rounded end is pointing upwards. You should see a tiny Phillips head screw. Use a small Phillips head screwdriver to carefully remove this screw. Keep the screw in a safe place as you’ll need to re-install it.
Step 3: Pry Open the Key Fob
With the screw removed, use your flat-sided tool (flathead screwdriver or similar) to gently pry apart the two halves of the key fob casing. Insert the tool into the seam and gently twist or pry until the case separates.
Step 4: Access and Replace the Battery
Once open, you’ll see the inner component of the key fob. Lift this inner piece out and flip it over to access the battery. Similar to the modern fob, use your tool to slide out the old battery, noting its orientation. Replace it with a new CR2032 battery, ensuring correct polarity.
Step 5: Reassemble the Older Key Fob
Carefully put the three pieces of the key fob back together: the two casing halves and the inner component. Make sure everything fits snugly. Reinstall the Phillips head screw and tighten it gently. Finally, slide the emergency key back into its place.
By following these steps, you can easily replace the battery in your Dodge key fob, regardless of whether it’s a modern or older style. This simple DIY task will save you money and keep you on the move. For more helpful how-to guides and car maintenance tips, keep visiting keyfobx.com!
