Is your car struggling to recognize your key fob? Are you pressing the unlock button multiple times before your vehicle responds? It might be a sign that your key fob battery is dying and needs replacing. Just like any other battery, the ones in your key fobs wear out over time. Knowing what kind of battery does your key fob need is the first step to solving this common car owner problem. Fortunately, replacing your key fob battery is often a straightforward task you can handle yourself, saving you a trip to the dealership or a mechanic.
Identifying the Right Battery for Your Key Fob
Before you start taking apart your key fob, it’s crucial to know what type of replacement battery you need. Using the wrong battery can prevent your key fob from working and could even damage it. Here’s how to determine the correct battery for your key fob:
Check Your Key Fob Case
The easiest way to find out what kind of battery your key fob needs is to examine the key fob itself. Many key fobs have the battery type embossed directly on the back or inside the battery compartment. Look closely for a series of letters and numbers, such as CR2032, CR1620, or CR2025. These codes indicate the battery size and type you need.
Consult Your Car Owner’s Manual
If you can’t find the battery type on your key fob, your car owner’s manual is another reliable source of information. Check the section on key fobs or remote controls. The manual should specify the correct battery type required for your vehicle’s key fob. This is especially helpful if your key fob case doesn’t have any markings or if they are worn off.
Open Your Key Fob (Carefully)
If you can’t find the information on the case or in your manual, you’ll need to open your key fob to identify the battery. Don’t worry, this is usually a simple process. You’ll typically need a small, flat-head screwdriver or a thin blade, like a watch knife.
Gently insert the tool into the seam of the key fob case and carefully pry it open. Avoid forcing it, as you could damage the case. Work your way around the seam until the case splits open. Once open, you’ll see the battery inside. Take note of the battery type printed on it. Common key fob batteries are coin cell lithium batteries, often CR2032, CR2025, or CR1632.
Common Key Fob Battery Types
While battery types can vary depending on your car’s make, model, and year, some are more common than others in key fobs. The CR2032 battery is one of the most frequently used batteries in car key fobs. Other common types include CR2025, CR1632, and CR1620. These are all lithium coin cell batteries, known for their long life and reliable power.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Key Fob Battery
Once you know what kind of battery your key fob needs and have purchased the replacement, you can proceed with the battery replacement. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
- Gather your tools: You’ll need a small flat-head screwdriver or watch knife to open the key fob case, and the correct replacement battery. Tweezers can also be helpful for handling the small battery.
- Open the key fob case: Using your flat-head screwdriver or watch knife, gently pry open the key fob case as described earlier.
- Remove the old battery: Once the case is open, carefully remove the old battery. Note the orientation of the battery (positive side up or down) before removing it. This is important for inserting the new battery correctly.
- Insert the new battery: Place the new battery into the battery compartment, ensuring it’s in the correct orientation (usually positive side up).
- Close the key fob case: Snap the key fob case back together until it’s securely closed. You should hear a click or feel it snap into place.
- Test your key fob: Try using your key fob to lock and unlock your car to ensure the new battery is working correctly.
Tips for Key Fob Battery Replacement Success
- Be gentle: When prying open the key fob case, be gentle and avoid using excessive force to prevent damage.
- Note battery orientation: Always pay attention to the orientation of the old battery before removing it. Most key fobs have a small “+” sign indicating the positive side.
- Avoid touching internal components: When replacing the battery, try not to touch the circuit board or other internal components of the key fob to avoid accidental damage.
- Dispose of old batteries properly: Lithium coin cell batteries should be disposed of according to local regulations for battery recycling.
Knowing what kind of battery does your key fob need and how to replace it yourself can save you time and money. By following these simple steps, you can easily restore your key fob to its full functionality and avoid the frustration of a dead remote. You can find replacement key fob batteries at most retailers that sell batteries, including Interstate All Battery Center locations, ensuring you have the power you need when you need it.
