Key fobs are incredibly convenient devices that have become an essential part of modern car ownership. They allow for remote locking, unlocking, and starting of your vehicle, all at the press of a button. Powering these functions is a small but crucial component: the key fob battery. If you’ve ever wondered, “What Battery Goes Into A Key Fob?”, you’re not alone. It’s a common question, and understanding the answer can save you time and frustration.
Why Key Fob Batteries Die and Recognizing the Signs
Like any battery, key fob batteries have a limited lifespan. Typically, you can expect a key fob battery to last anywhere from two to six years, depending on usage frequency and the type of key fob. Smart keys, which constantly communicate with your vehicle, may have a shorter battery life than standard remote keys.
Knowing when your key fob battery is nearing the end of its life is helpful to prevent being caught off guard. Here are some telltale signs:
- Reduced Range: You need to be much closer to your car than usual for the remote to work. This is often the first and most noticeable sign.
- Inconsistent Signal: You have to press the buttons multiple times, or harder than usual, for your car to respond.
- No Signal: The key fob becomes completely unresponsive, and no signal is transmitted to the vehicle.
- Dashboard Warning Light: Some newer vehicles will display a warning message on the dashboard indicating a low key fob battery.
Ignoring these signs can lead to a completely dead key fob battery, which can be inconvenient, especially if you are in a hurry.
Identifying the Correct Replacement Battery
When your key fob battery dies, replacing it is usually a straightforward process. The first step is to determine the correct type of battery needed. Here’s how you can find out:
- Check Your Owner’s Manual: The most reliable source is your car’s owner’s manual. It should specify the exact battery type required for your key fob.
- Examine the Old Battery: Once you open your key fob (instructions below), you can take out the old battery. The battery type is usually printed directly on the battery itself. Common types include CR2032, CR2025, CR1620, and CR2450.
- Online Resources: If you don’t have your owner’s manual handy, you can often find battery information online. Websites like the battery manufacturer’s sites or online car parts retailers often have battery finders where you can input your car’s make, model, and year to find the correct key fob battery.
It’s crucial to use the correct battery type. Using an incorrect battery might result in improper function or even damage to your key fob.
Step-by-Step Guide to Key Fob Battery Replacement
Replacing a key fob battery is a DIY task that most car owners can handle themselves. Here’s a general guide:
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Gather Your Tools: You will typically need a small flathead screwdriver or a similar tool to gently pry open the key fob. You’ll also need the correct replacement battery.
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Open the Key Fob: Examine your key fob for a small notch or seam. Use the flathead screwdriver to carefully pry open the fob at this point. Be gentle to avoid breaking the plastic tabs that hold the fob together. Some fobs may have a small screw that needs to be removed first.
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Remove the Old Battery: Once the fob is open, you’ll see the battery. Note the orientation of the battery (positive side up or down) before removing it. Gently pry the old battery out of its compartment.
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Insert the New Battery: Install the new battery in the same orientation as the old one. Ensure it is securely placed in the compartment.
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Close the Key Fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob back together until they are firmly closed. If there was a screw, replace and tighten it.
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Test Your Key Fob: Try using your key fob to lock and unlock your car to ensure the new battery is working correctly.
If you encounter difficulties or are uncomfortable performing this task yourself, you can always seek assistance from a professional locksmith or your car dealership.
Key Fob Battery Types by Car Make and Model
While CR2032 and CR2025 batteries are among the most common, different car manufacturers and models may use different types. Here is a guide to some common car makes and the key fob batteries they often use:
Honda Key Fob Batteries
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CR2032: Most Honda models, including:
- 2022 Honda Insight
- 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid
- 2021 Honda Accord Sedan
- 2021 Honda CR-V
- (2016-2021) Honda Civic Smart Key
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CR1620: Honda Remote Head Key (RHK) models, such as:
- (2017-2021) Honda Civic RHK
Nissan Key Fob Batteries
- CR2032: Many Nissan models, including:
- 2022 Nissan Altima (2019-2022 Altima)
- 2022 Nissan Murano (2019-2022 Murano)
- 2021-2022 Nissan Sentra (2020-22 Sentra)
- 2022 Nissan Versa Sedan (2020-22 Versa Sedan)
- 2021-2022 Nissan Pathfinder (2019-21 Pathfinder)
- 2021-2021 Nissan Titan (2019-21 Titan)
- 2020 Nissan Versa Note (2020 Versa Note)
- 2020-2021 Nissan Frontier (2020-21 Frontier)
Toyota Key Fob Batteries
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CR2032: Common in many Toyota models:
- 2021-2022 Toyota 4Runner
- 2021-2022 Toyota Avalon
- 2021 Toyota C-HR
- 2021-2022 Toyota Camry
- 2021-2022 Toyota Corolla
- 2021-2022 Toyota Highlander
- 2021 Toyota Prius
- 2021 Toyota Prius Prime
- 2021 Toyota RAV4
- 2021-2022 Toyota Sequoia
- 2021-2022 Toyota Tacoma (Smart Key)
- 2021 Toyota Tundra (Smart Key)
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CR2016: Toyota Remote Head Key (RHK) models:
- 2021 Toyota Tacoma (RHK)
- 2021 Toyota Tundra (RHK)
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CR2450: Specific Toyota models:
- 2022 Toyota Sienna
- 2021 Toyota Venza
Mazda Key Fob Batteries
- CR2032: Used across a wide range of Mazda models:
- 2021 Mazda 3
- 2021 Mazda 6
- 2021 Mazda CX-3
- 2021 Mazda CX-30
- 2021 Mazda CX-5
- 2021 Mazda CX-9
- 2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Jeep Key Fob Batteries
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CR2450: Used in some Jeep models:
- 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer
- 2022 Jeep Wagoneer
- 2021 Jeep Wrangler
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CR2032: Used in other Jeep models:
- 2021 Jeep Cherokee
- 2021 Jeep Compass
- 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- 2021 Jeep Renegade
Subaru Key Fob Batteries
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CR1620: Subaru Remote Head Key (RHK) models:
- 2021-2022 Subaru Impreza (RHK)
- 2021 Subaru Forester (RHK)
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CR2032: Subaru Smart Key models:
- 2021 Subaru Impreza (Smart Key)
- 2021-2022 Subaru Legacy
- 2021-2022 Subaru Outback
- 2021 Subaru Forester (Smart Key)
Disclaimer: This list is based on common inquiries and is not exhaustive. Always verify the correct battery type for your specific vehicle using your owner’s manual or by checking the old battery.
Where to Purchase Key Fob Batteries and How Much They Cost
Replacement key fob batteries are readily available and inexpensive. You can find them at:
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon and other online marketplaces offer a wide selection of batteries at competitive prices.
- Automotive Parts Stores: Stores like AutoZone and similar auto parts retailers stock common key fob batteries.
- Electronic Stores: Stores that sell electronics, such as Walmart or electronics specialty stores, also carry these batteries.
The cost of a key fob battery is typically around $5, although prices may vary slightly depending on the brand, quantity purchased, and the retailer.
Conclusion
Knowing “what battery goes into a key fob” and how to replace it is a simple yet valuable piece of car ownership knowledge. By recognizing the signs of a dying battery and understanding how to find and replace it, you can avoid the inconvenience of a dead key fob. Replacing the battery yourself is usually a quick and cost-effective solution. However, if you prefer professional assistance, contact Keyway Locksmith or explore our range of automotive locksmith services for expert help.
