Is your car key fob acting up? Are you finding yourself pressing the buttons multiple times just to lock or unlock your car? It’s a common frustration, and often the culprit is a dead or dying battery. Before you rush to the dealership or assume you need a costly key fob replacement, consider a simple and often inexpensive fix: replacing the battery yourself. But first, you need to know: What Kind Of Battery Goes In A Key Fob?
This guide, brought to you by the auto experts at keyfobx.com, will walk you through everything you need to know about key fob batteries. We’ll cover the common types of batteries used, how to identify the right one for your fob, and provide a step-by-step guide to replacing it yourself. You might be surprised at how easy it is to restore your key fob to full working order!
Decoding Key Fob Batteries: Common Types and Sizes
Key fobs, despite their varied designs and car models they serve, often rely on a surprisingly standardized set of batteries. The most common type you’ll encounter is the CR2032 coin cell battery. This 3V lithium battery is widely used in small electronic devices, and for good reason. It offers a long lifespan and reliable power in a compact size.
However, the CR2032 isn’t the only player in the key fob battery game. Depending on your car’s make, model, and year, your key fob might utilize other coin cell battery types, including:
- CR1632: Slightly thinner than the CR2032, but still 3V. Often used in slimmer key fobs.
- CR2025: A bit less capacity than the CR2032, but the same diameter. Another 3V option.
- CR2450: Larger diameter and capacity, offering longer life. May be found in fobs requiring more power.
- CR1620, CR1616, CR1220, CR1225, CR1216, CR2016, CR2430: These are less common but still appear in some key fobs. They vary in size and capacity, but all are typically 3V lithium batteries.
It’s crucial to identify the exact battery type your key fob needs to ensure proper function and avoid damaging your device. Using the wrong battery type, even if it physically fits, can lead to performance issues or even damage your key fob’s electronics.
How to Determine What Battery Your Key Fob Needs
So, how do you figure out what kind of battery goes in your specific key fob? There are a few reliable methods:
1. Check Your Key Fob Case:
Often, the battery type is indicated directly on the key fob itself. Examine the back of your key fob or look inside the key sleeve (if your fob has one). Manufacturers sometimes emboss or print the battery type – for example, “CR2032” – directly onto the plastic casing.
2. Open Your Key Fob and Check the Old Battery:
If you can’t find the battery type on the case, the next step is to carefully open your key fob. Don’t worry, it’s usually easier than you think! You’ll typically need a small, flat tool like a watch knife or a thin flathead screwdriver.
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Pry it open gently: Look for a small notch or seam on the fob case. Insert your tool into this opening and gently twist or pry to separate the two halves of the case. Avoid forcing it! Work your tool around the seam gradually to pop open the fasteners.
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Locate the battery: Once open, you’ll see the internal components of the key fob, including the battery. The battery is usually a small, round coin cell.
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Identify the battery type: The battery type is always printed directly on the battery itself. It will be a combination of letters and numbers, like “CR2032” or “CR1620”. This is the most accurate way to determine the correct replacement battery.
3. Consult Your Owner’s Manual:
While less common, some car owner’s manuals might specify the key fob battery type. Check the index or the section on key fobs and remotes.
4. Online Resources and Retailers:
If you’re still unsure, many online retailers that sell key fob batteries have battery finders or compatibility charts. You can often enter your car’s make, model, and year to get a battery recommendation. However, always double-check the battery type printed on your old battery for confirmation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Key Fob Battery
Once you know what kind of battery goes in your key fob and have purchased the correct replacement, the process is straightforward:
Tools You’ll Need:
- New Key Fob Battery: The correct type and size you identified.
- Small Flat Tool: Watch knife, thin flathead screwdriver, or even a guitar pick.
- Precision Screwdriver (Optional): Some fobs have tiny screws.
- Tweezers (Optional): Helpful for handling the small battery.
- Your Phone Camera: To take reference photos (highly recommended!).
Replacement Steps:
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Open the Key Fob: Using your flat tool, carefully pry open the key fob case as described earlier.
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Take a Photo!: Before removing the old battery, take a picture of the inside of the key fob, paying attention to the battery orientation (+ and – sides). This is incredibly helpful as a reference when you install the new battery.
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Remove the Old Battery: Gently remove the old battery. Some fobs have small clips or levers holding the battery in place. Use tweezers or your fingertip to carefully lift it out.
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Install the New Battery: Insert the new battery, making sure the orientation matches the photo you took (positive side up or down, as it was originally). Ensure it’s securely seated in its compartment.
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Close the Key Fob: Carefully snap the two halves of the key fob case back together until they are firmly closed. You should hear a click as the fasteners engage.
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Test Your Key Fob: Try locking and unlocking your car to ensure the new battery is working correctly.
Important Tips and Warnings:
- Be Gentle: Avoid forcing anything when opening or closing the key fob. Plastic parts can break easily.
- Don’t Touch Circuit Boards: Be careful not to touch or disturb the circuit board or any wiring inside the fob.
- Battery Orientation Matters: Installing the battery backward won’t work and could potentially damage the fob. Always double-check the polarity.
- Static Electricity: While not usually a major concern with key fobs, grounding yourself by touching a metal object before handling the circuit board can help prevent static discharge.
- If in Doubt, Seek Professional Help: If you’re uncomfortable opening your key fob or are unsure about any step, it’s always best to consult a professional at a car repair shop or battery center.
Get Your Key Fob Batteries and More at Keyfobx.com
Knowing what kind of battery goes in a key fob and how to replace it yourself can save you time and money. At keyfobx.com, we’re your trusted resource for all things key fob related. While we specialize in key fob information and guides, remember that for purchasing batteries and key fob replacements, Interstate All Battery Center is a fantastic option. They offer a wide selection of key fob batteries and even key replacement services at select locations.
Don’t let a dead key fob battery leave you stranded. With the right battery and a little DIY know-how, you can keep your car keys working perfectly!
