It’s a familiar scenario for many Nissan owners: you reach for your key fob to unlock your car, only to be met with silence. No flashing lights, no satisfying click of the locks – just nothing. Chances are, you’re dealing with a dead battery in your Nissan key fob. But don’t worry, this is a common issue with a straightforward solution. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Nissan key fob batteries, focusing on the key question: What Battery Does A Nissan Key Fob Take? We’ll cover battery types, replacement steps, and even what to do if your key fob dies completely.
Identifying the Right Battery for Your Nissan Key Fob
Determining the correct battery for your Nissan key fob is the first step to getting back to seamless vehicle access. While Nissan key fobs are designed for longevity, batteries do eventually need replacing. The type of battery your Nissan key fob requires can vary depending on the specific model and year of your vehicle. Luckily, finding out is usually quite simple.
Common Nissan Key Fob Batteries: CR2025 and CR2032
The most common types of batteries you’ll find in Nissan key fobs are CR2025 and CR2032 batteries. These are both 3V lithium coin cell batteries, readily available at most drugstores, hardware stores, and online retailers. While they are similar in size, the CR2032 is slightly thicker than the CR2025 and generally offers a longer lifespan due to its higher capacity.
How to Check Your Nissan Key Fob Battery Type
The most direct way to know exactly what battery your Nissan key fob needs is to open the fob itself and take a look at the existing battery. Don’t worry, this is easier than it sounds and doesn’t require any special tools in most cases.
- Locate the release: Most Nissan key fobs have a small release latch or button, often on the back of the fob.
- Release the emergency key: Activate the release to remove the mechanical emergency key. This is a small metal key that slides out from the fob.
- Open the fob casing: Once the emergency key is removed, you’ll often find a small notch or seam where you can gently pry open the key fob casing. You can use a small flathead screwdriver or even just your fingernail in some cases. Be gentle to avoid damaging the plastic.
- Identify the battery type: With the fob open, you’ll see the battery. The battery type (like CR2025 or CR2032) is typically printed directly on the battery itself. Note this information down.
Alternatively, your Nissan owner’s manual should also specify the correct battery type for your key fob. Consulting your manual is a quick way to find the information without needing to open the fob immediately.
Where to Buy Replacement Batteries
CR2025 and CR2032 batteries are widely available. You can purchase them at:
- Drugstores and Pharmacies: Stores like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid usually stock these batteries in their battery or electronics sections.
- Hardware Stores: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, and similar stores will carry them.
- Department Stores: Walmart, Target, and other large department stores often have electronics sections with these batteries.
- Online Retailers: Amazon, and other online retailers offer a vast selection, often at competitive prices, and you can have them delivered directly to your door.
- Auto Parts Stores: While perhaps not the most common place, some auto parts stores like AutoZone or Advance Auto Parts might carry these common key fob batteries.
When purchasing, ensure you are buying the correct type (CR2025 or CR2032) and consider purchasing from reputable brands for optimal performance and longevity.
Step-by-Step Guide to Nissan Key Fob Battery Replacement
Replacing the battery in your Nissan key fob is a simple DIY task that can save you time and money compared to visiting a dealership for a minor issue. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Tools You’ll Need
- New Battery: Ensure you have the correct replacement battery (CR2025 or CR2032) that you identified earlier.
- Small Flathead Screwdriver or Pry Tool (Optional): While sometimes you can open the fob by hand, a small flathead screwdriver or a plastic pry tool can be helpful to gently open the casing without damaging it.
- Clean Cloth (Optional): To keep the battery and fob clean during the process.
7 Easy Steps to Replace Your Nissan Key Fob Battery
- Remove the Emergency Key: Locate the release button or latch on your key fob and use it to slide out and remove the emergency mechanical key.
- Open the Key Fob Casing: Carefully inspect the seam of your key fob. Find the notch or opening point. Gently use your fingernail or a small flathead screwdriver to pry open the two halves of the key fob casing. Work your way around the seam slowly and carefully until the case separates.
- Remove the Old Battery: Once open, you’ll see the battery. Take note of the battery’s orientation (positive side up or down). Gently pry out the old battery. You can use the tip of a small screwdriver, being careful not to damage the battery compartment or surrounding electronics.
- Insert the New Battery: Place the new battery into the battery compartment, ensuring it’s in the correct orientation as the old battery was (usually positive side facing up). Push it gently until it is securely seated.
- Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing. Press them firmly together until they snap back into place. You should hear a click indicating they are securely closed.
- Replace the Emergency Key: Slide the emergency mechanical key back into its slot in the key fob until it clicks and locks into position.
- Test Your Key Fob: Press the buttons on your key fob to test if it’s working. The doors should lock and unlock, and the panic button should function. If it works, you’ve successfully replaced your Nissan key fob battery!
What to Do When Your Nissan Key Fob Battery Dies
Even with a dead key fob battery, you’re not stranded. Nissan has designed their Intelligent Key system to still allow you access and operation of your vehicle in such situations.
Emergency Key Access
As mentioned earlier, your Nissan key fob contains a hidden mechanical emergency key. This key is your backup plan when the battery is dead.
- Access the Emergency Key: Locate the release mechanism on your key fob and remove the emergency key.
- Unlock the Door Manually: Use the physical key to unlock your Nissan door, just like you would with a traditional car key.
Starting Your Nissan with a Dead Fob
Nissan vehicles offer a couple of methods to start the engine even with a dead key fob battery:
- Key Fob Port (If Equipped): Some Nissan models have a designated key fob port, often located on the steering column or dashboard. Insert the key fob into this port. Then, while pressing the brake pedal, press the START/STOP button to start the engine.
- Direct Contact with START/STOP Button: If your Nissan doesn’t have a key fob port, you can still start it. Step on the brake pedal (or clutch for manual transmissions) and firmly press the Nissan key fob directly against the START/STOP ignition button. This allows the vehicle to detect the key fob’s signal passively and start the engine.
If you encounter any difficulties entering or starting your Nissan with a dead key fob battery, it’s always best to consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions for your vehicle model or contact a Nissan dealership for assistance.
Reprogramming Your Nissan Key Fob
In most cases, replacing the battery in your Nissan key fob will not require reprogramming. The key fob should resume normal operation immediately after battery replacement.
When Reprogramming is Needed
Reprogramming is typically only necessary in situations such as:
- New Key Fob: If you purchase a new or replacement key fob.
- System Malfunction: In rare cases, the key fob or vehicle’s immobilizer system may experience a malfunction requiring reprogramming.
Seeking Professional Help
Reprogramming a Nissan Intelligent Key is a complex procedure that often requires specialized diagnostic tools and software. Nissan recommends visiting an authorized Nissan dealership for key fob reprogramming services. Dealership technicians have the expertise and equipment to correctly reprogram your key fob and ensure it functions seamlessly with your vehicle’s security system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of battery does a Nissan key fob take?
Most Nissan key fobs use either a CR2025 or a CR2032 3V lithium coin cell battery. Check your owner’s manual or open your key fob to identify the specific battery type required for your model.
Can you replace a Nissan key fob battery by yourself?
Yes! Replacing a Nissan key fob battery is a simple and straightforward process that most Nissan owners can easily do at home in just a few minutes.
What happens if my Nissan key battery dies?
If your Nissan key fob battery dies, you can still use the emergency mechanical key to unlock your car. To start the engine, you can use the key fob port (if equipped) or press the key fob directly against the START/STOP button while pressing the brake pedal.
Nissan Key Fob Battery Replacement: Empowering you to handle this minor maintenance task yourself ensures you’re never locked out or unable to start your vehicle due to a dead key fob battery. And knowing what battery your Nissan key fob takes is the first step to staying prepared.
