Just like any battery-operated device, the battery in your Dodge key fob will eventually need replacing. A dead or dying key fob battery can be a real inconvenience, preventing you from remotely locking or unlocking your doors, starting your car remotely, or even setting off the panic alarm in emergencies. Fortunately, replacing your Dodge key fob battery is a simple task that you can easily accomplish at home with a few basic tools. This guide will walk you through the process for different types of Dodge key fobs, ensuring you can get back to using your remote without any hassle.
Whether you have a newer Dodge vehicle with a standard key fob or an older model with a fob that inserts into the dashboard, the battery replacement process is straightforward. Typically, Dodge key fobs use a common and readily available CR2032 battery. You can find these batteries at most auto parts stores, pharmacies, and general retailers. Before you head out to purchase a new battery, let’s identify the type of key fob you have and the steps involved in replacing its battery.
Replacing Battery in Standard Dodge Key Fobs
For most modern Dodge vehicles, the key fob is a standalone remote that doesn’t require insertion into the dashboard to start the car. Replacing the battery in these fobs is generally very similar across models. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Locate and Release the Emergency Key
On the back of your Dodge key fob, you’ll find a small lever or button. This release mechanism is designed to detach the mechanical emergency key from the fob. Slide or press this lever to release the emergency key and pull it out. Set the emergency key aside in a safe place; you won’t need it for the battery replacement itself, but it’s good to keep track of.
Step 2: Gather a Flat, Thin Tool
To open the key fob casing, you’ll need a thin, flat-sided tool. A flathead screwdriver is often recommended and works effectively. However, if you’re concerned about potentially scratching the plastic casing of your fob, you could also use a plastic trim removal tool or even the edge of a credit card or similar plastic card. The goal is to gently pry the two halves of the fob apart without causing damage.
Step 3: Pry Open the Key Fob Casing
Examine the bottom of your key fob, specifically where the emergency key was just removed. Above this slot, you should see a small blank slot or seam running along the edge of the fob. This is the designated point where you should insert your flat tool. Carefully insert the tip of your flathead screwdriver or chosen tool into this slot. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the key fob casing. Work your tool around the seam if necessary, applying gentle pressure until the case begins to split open.
Step 4: Access and Remove the Old Battery
Once the two halves of the key fob are separated, carefully pull them apart to reveal the internal electronics and the battery compartment. You’ll see the small, round battery nestled within its housing. Take note of the battery’s orientation before removing it. Specifically, observe which side is facing up – usually, the positive (+) side will be marked. If you’re unsure, look for “+” symbols on the battery compartment itself as a guide for the correct orientation of the new battery. Use your flat tool again, if needed, to gently slide the old battery out of its housing.
Step 5: Install the New CR2032 Battery
Take your new CR2032 battery out of its packaging. Ensure it’s the correct type – CR2032 batteries are commonly used in key fobs and are widely available. Slide the new battery into the battery housing, making sure to match the orientation of the old battery. The positive (+) side of the battery should align with the “+” marking in the compartment, if visible. If you noted the orientation in the previous step, simply replicate that with the new battery.
Step 6: Reassemble the Key Fob
Carefully take the two halves of the key fob casing and press them back together. You should hear or feel a click as the two portions snap securely back into place. Ensure there are no gaps and the case is fully closed. Finally, don’t forget to slide the emergency key back into its slot until it clicks and locks into position.
Replacing Battery in Older Dodge Key Fobs (Dashboard Insert Type)
Some older Dodge vehicles utilized a key fob design that required insertion into the dashboard to start the vehicle. While less common now, you might still encounter this type of key fob. The battery replacement is slightly different but still manageable. Here’s how:
Step 1: Release the Emergency Key
Similar to the newer key fobs, locate the lever or button on the back of your older Dodge key fob. Activate this release to detach and remove the emergency key. Set it aside.
Step 2: Locate and Remove the Phillips Head Screw
Flip the key fob upside down so that the buttons are facing away from you, and the rounded end is pointing upwards. On the back of the fob, you should see a tiny Phillips head screw. You will need a small Phillips head screwdriver to remove this screw. Carefully unscrew and remove it. Keep the screw in a safe place so you don’t lose it, as it’s necessary for reassembly.
Step 3: Separate the Key Fob Halves
With the screw removed, you can now separate the two halves of the key fob casing. You may still need to use a flat, thin tool to help pry them apart, similar to the standard key fob. Insert your flathead screwdriver or plastic tool into the seam and gently twist or pry until the two halves begin to separate.
Step 4: Access and Remove the Battery
Once open, you’ll see the inner workings of the key fob. Carefully lift out the inner piece to access the battery compartment, which is usually located on the underside of this inner piece. Flip the inner piece over to reveal the battery. Again, note the orientation of the battery before removal. Use your flat tool to gently slide the old battery out of its housing.
Step 5: Insert the New CR2032 Battery
Take your new CR2032 battery and slide it into the battery compartment, ensuring correct orientation, typically with the positive (+) side facing upwards or matching the markings in the battery holder.
Step 6: Reassemble and Test
Carefully put the three pieces of the key fob back together: the two outer halves and the inner component. Make sure they align correctly and fasten back into place. Replace the Phillips head screw and tighten it gently but securely. Finally, slide the emergency key back into its slot. Test your key fob to ensure it’s working correctly.
By following these steps, you can easily replace the battery in your Dodge key fob and avoid the inconvenience of a dead remote. Regularly replacing your key fob battery as needed will ensure you always have reliable access to your vehicle’s remote functions.
