If you’re a Nissan Altima owner, particularly if you drive a model from 2013 to 2015, you might find yourself needing to replace the battery in your key fob. It’s a common maintenance task, and luckily, it’s something you can easily handle yourself. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about what battery your Nissan Altima key fob takes and how to replace it.
Understanding Your Nissan Altima Key Fob Battery Needs
The good news is that Nissan key fobs, including those for the Altima, are designed for relatively straightforward battery replacement. You won’t need any specialized tools or expertise. The most important thing is knowing the correct battery type.
The Battery Type: CR2032 Coin Cell
For your Nissan Altima key fob, you’ll need a CR2032 3-volt coin cell battery. This is a very common type of battery, often used in small electronic devices like watches and, of course, key fobs. You can easily find CR2032 batteries at most drugstores, supermarkets, hardware stores, and online retailers. They are manufactured by reputable brands such as Panasonic, Energizer, Duracell, and Sony.
Alt text: CR2032 3V coin cell battery next to a Nissan key fob, illustrating the battery type needed for Nissan Altima and similar models.
Why CR2032 Batteries Are Ideal for Key Fobs
CR2032 batteries are chosen for key fobs because they offer a good balance of size, power, and longevity. Their 3-volt output is sufficient to power the key fob’s radio transmitter for a reasonable amount of time. They are also relatively thin and compact, allowing them to fit neatly inside the key fob casing without adding bulk.
Is Your Nissan Model Included? Wider Compatibility
While this guide specifically mentions the Nissan Altima, the CR2032 battery is also frequently used in key fobs for a range of other Nissan and INFINITI models. If you own any of the following vehicles, this information is likely applicable to you as well:
Nissan Models:
- Versa
- Maxima
- Juke
- Rogue
- Murano
- Xterra
- Pathfinder
- Sentra
- Cube
- Armada
- Leaf
- Quest
- Frontier
- Titan
INFINITI Models:
- 370Z
- GT-R
- G25
- G37
- M35
- M37
If you are unsure, it’s always a good idea to double-check your owner’s manual for the specific battery type recommended for your vehicle’s key fob.
Tools Needed for Nissan Altima Key Fob Battery Replacement
Replacing your Nissan Altima key fob battery is a simple DIY task that requires minimal tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tool: Mini Flathead Screwdriver
The primary tool you’ll need is a mini flathead screwdriver. Think of the size you might use for eyeglasses repair. This small screwdriver is perfect for gently prying open the two halves of your key fob casing without causing damage.
Optional but Helpful: Microfiber Cloth
While not strictly necessary, a thin microfiber cloth can be very helpful. You can wrap the tip of your screwdriver with the cloth to prevent any scratches to the plastic casing of the key fob or the delicate electronic components inside.
Step-by-Step Guide: Nissan Altima Key Fob Battery Replacement
Now, let’s get to the step-by-step process of replacing the battery in your Nissan Altima key fob. Follow these instructions carefully, and you’ll have your key fob working again in no time.
Step 1: Prepare Your Key Fob
Start by placing your key fob on a flat surface with the buttons facing downwards. It’s also a good idea to remove the key fob from your key ring at this stage to make handling it easier.
Step 2: Remove the Emergency Key
Locate the small slider tab on your key fob. This tab is designed to release the emergency metal ignition key that’s hidden inside. Push the slider tab towards the outer edge of the key fob. While pushing the tab, gently pull the bottom edge of the key fob downwards. The emergency key should slide out. Set the emergency key aside in a safe place so you don’t lose it.
Alt text: Close-up image showing the step of removing the emergency key from a Nissan key fob by pressing the release tab and sliding the key out.
Step 3: Open the Key Fob Casing
With the buttons still facing up and the emergency key removed, look into the slot where the key was just removed. You should see small notches on the inside plastic edge of the key fob. This is where you’ll insert your mini flathead screwdriver.
Carefully insert the tip of your flathead screwdriver into one of these notches. Gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the key fob casing. If it’s a bit stubborn, try the other notch. Once you get a small opening, you can usually work your way around the seam to fully separate the top and bottom halves of the fob. Remove the top half of the fob to expose the battery.
Step 4: Replace the Old Battery with a New CR2032
With the top half of the key fob removed, you’ll see the battery. Note the orientation of the battery – usually, the positive (+) side is facing upwards. Use your flathead screwdriver to carefully pry out the old battery. Be gentle to avoid scratching any of the internal components.
Take your new CR2032 battery and insert it into the battery compartment. Make sure the positive (+) side is facing up, matching the orientation of the old battery. Push the new battery firmly into place until it’s secure.
Alt text: Image demonstrating battery replacement in a Nissan key fob, showing the CR2032 battery being inserted with the positive side facing upwards.
Step 5: Reassemble Your Key Fob
Now it’s time to put your key fob back together. Carefully align the top and bottom halves of the key fob casing. Gently press them together, ensuring that they are flush and securely closed all the way around the edges. You should hear a click as the two halves snap back into place.
Finally, slide the emergency metal ignition key back into its slot until it clicks securely.
Final Thoughts
Congratulations! You’ve successfully replaced the battery in your Nissan Altima key fob. This simple maintenance task can save you time and money compared to visiting a dealership for a battery replacement. By knowing What Battery Does A Nissan Altima Key Fob Take – the CR2032 – you’re well-equipped to handle this common issue.
For more helpful car care tips and tricks, be sure to explore our other guides. And if you are in the market for a quality pre-owned vehicle, don’t hesitate to check out our extensive inventory at [Your Dealership Name/Website]. We’re here to help keep you on the road!
