As a content creator at keyfobx.com and an automotive repair specialist, I understand how crucial your car key fob is in your daily life. It’s easy to take for granted until it stops working, often due to a dead battery. One of the most common questions we get is, “What Type Of Battery Goes In A Key Fob?”. Knowing the answer can save you time and frustration, and that’s exactly what this guide is for.
Key fobs are essential for modern vehicles, controlling everything from locking and unlocking your doors to starting your engine in push-to-start systems. They are powered by small batteries, and like any battery, these will eventually need replacing. But with so many different types of key fobs and car manufacturers, figuring out the right battery can feel like a puzzle. This article will break down the mystery, providing you with the information you need to confidently replace your key fob battery and get back on the road. We’ll cover common battery types, how to identify the correct one for your fob, signs your battery is dying, and even a vehicle-specific guide to help you pinpoint the exact battery you need.
Common Types of Key Fob Batteries
Key fobs typically use small, coin-shaped batteries known as button cell or coin cell batteries. These are compact, lightweight, and provide a long-lasting power source for low-drain devices like key fobs. While there are various sizes and chemistries available, a few types dominate the car key fob market.
The most frequently used batteries in key fobs are from the CR battery series. The “CR” indicates that the battery chemistry is Lithium and Manganese Dioxide. The numbers following “CR” denote the battery’s size. The first four digits indicate the diameter in millimeters, and the last two digits represent the thickness in tenths of a millimeter.
Here are some of the most common battery types you’ll find in key fobs:
- CR2032 Battery: This is perhaps the most common key fob battery. It’s a 3-volt lithium battery that measures 20mm in diameter and 3.2mm thick. Its balance of size and power makes it a popular choice for many car manufacturers.
- CR2025 Battery: Slightly thinner than the CR2032, the CR2025 is also a 3-volt lithium battery, measuring 20mm in diameter and 2.5mm thick. It’s often used in fobs where space is a tighter constraint.
- CR2016 Battery: Thinner still, the CR2016 is a 3-volt lithium battery with a 20mm diameter and 1.6mm thickness. You’ll find this in even slimmer key fob designs.
- CR2450 Battery: Larger than the 20mm diameter batteries, the CR2450 is a 3-volt lithium battery, measuring 24.5mm in diameter and 5.0mm thick. Its larger size provides a longer lifespan, often used in key fobs with more features or for certain vehicle makes.
- CR1620 Battery: Smaller in diameter, the CR1620 is a 3-volt lithium battery, measuring 16mm in diameter and 2.0mm thick. This is less common than the 20mm diameter batteries but still appears in some key fobs, particularly in older or more compact designs.
Understanding these common battery types is the first step in identifying the right one for your key fob.
How to Determine the Right Battery for Your Key Fob
Finding the correct battery for your key fob doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Here are several reliable methods to pinpoint the exact type you need:
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Consult Your Owner’s Manual: Your vehicle’s owner’s manual is your best resource. It typically contains a section on key fob maintenance, including battery replacement and the specific battery type required for your key fob. Look in the index for “key fob battery,” “remote battery,” or “keyless entry battery.”
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Check Your Existing Key Fob Battery: The easiest way to know for sure is to open your key fob and look at the battery already inside. Most coin cell batteries have their type clearly printed on them. You’ll see markings like “CR2032,” “CR2025,” etc. Make a note of this code – it’s the definitive answer.
Alt text: Close-up of a car key fob opened to show the battery compartment, highlighting the importance of identifying the battery type for replacement.
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Online Battery Finder Tools: Many battery retailers, like those mentioned later in this article (Amazon, Walmart, AutoZone), have online tools that can help you find the right battery. You can usually input your car’s make, model, and year, and the tool will suggest the likely key fob battery type. However, always double-check with your owner’s manual or the existing battery to confirm.
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Vehicle-Specific Guides (Like Ours Below): We’ve compiled a list below based on common inquiries to give you a starting point. While not exhaustive, it covers many popular makes and models and the batteries they commonly use. Remember to always verify this information with your specific vehicle, as manufacturers can sometimes change components between model years or trims.
Car Key Battery Type by Vehicle Make: A Quick Guide
While CR2032 and CR2025 are prevalent, the best way to be certain is to check your current battery or owner’s manual. However, this guide based on common inquiries can be a helpful starting point:
Honda Key Fob Batteries
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Common Battery: CR2032 is very common for Honda smart keys.
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Examples:
- 2022 Honda Insight – CR2032
- 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid – CR2032
- 2021 Honda CR-V – CR2032
- (16-21) Honda Civic Smart Key – CR2032
- (17-21) Honda Civic RHK (remote head key) – CR1620
Alt text: Honda remote head key (RHK) disassembled to show battery compartment, illustrating a type of key fob requiring battery replacement.
Alt text: Interior view of an open Honda RHK key fob, focusing on the battery storage area, demonstrating where the battery is located within this key type.
Alt text: Screws being re-inserted into a Honda RHK key fob, indicating the reassembly process after battery replacement.
Nissan Key Fob Batteries
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Common Battery: CR2032 is widely used.
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Examples:
- 2022 Nissan Altima (19-22) – CR2032
- 2022 Nissan Murano (19-22) – CR2032
- 2021-2022 Nissan Sentra – CR2032
- 2022 Nissan Versa Sedan (20-22) – CR2032
Alt text: Inside view of a Nissan proximity key fob showing the battery compartment, used to illustrate the battery location in Nissan key fobs.
Toyota Key Fob Batteries
- Common Batteries: CR2032 and CR2016 are frequent, CR2450 for some models.
- Examples:
- 2021-2022 Toyota 4Runner – CR2032
- 2021-2022 Toyota Camry – CR2032
- 2021 Toyota Tacoma (Smart Key) – CR2032
- 2021 Toyota Tacoma (RHK) – CR2016
- 2022 Toyota Sienna – CR2450
Mazda Key Fob Batteries
- Common Battery: CR2032 is the standard.
- Examples:
- 2021 Mazda 3 – CR2032
- 2021 Mazda CX-5 – CR2032
- 2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata – CR2032
Jeep Key Fob Batteries
- Common Batteries: CR2450 and CR2032, depending on the model.
- Examples:
- 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer – CR2450
- 2021 Jeep Wrangler – CR2450
- 2021 Jeep Cherokee – CR2032
- 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee – CR2032
Subaru Key Fob Batteries
- Common Batteries: CR1620 and CR2032, depending on key type.
- Examples:
- 2021-2022 Subaru Impreza (RHK) – CR1620
- 2021 Subaru Forester (RHK) – CR1620
- 2021 Subaru Impreza (smart key) – CR2032
- 2021-2022 Subaru Outback – CR2032
Important Note: This is not an exhaustive list and is for general guidance only. Always verify the battery type for your specific vehicle using your owner’s manual or by checking the battery inside your key fob.
Signs Your Key Fob Battery Needs Replacing
Recognizing the signs of a dying key fob battery can prevent you from being stranded. Here are common indicators:
- 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: The key fob works intermittently, sometimes working from a normal distance, sometimes not at all.
- Multiple Button Presses Required: You have to press the buttons repeatedly or harder than usual for your car to respond.
- No Signal at All: The key fob completely stops working, giving no response from your vehicle.
How to Replace Your Key Fob Battery
Replacing a key fob battery is usually a straightforward DIY task:
- Identify Your Battery Type: Use the methods described above to confirm the correct battery.
- Open the Key Fob: Most fobs have a small notch or seam. You can use a small flathead screwdriver or your car key to gently pry it open. Be careful with plastic tabs to avoid breaking them.
- Remove the Old Battery: Note the orientation of the old battery (+ side up or down). Gently pry it out.
- Insert the New Battery: Install the new battery in the same orientation as the old one.
- Close the Key Fob: Snap the fob back together until it’s securely closed.
- Test: Test the key fob to ensure it’s working correctly.
If you’re not comfortable with DIY or encounter any issues, professional locksmith services like Keyway Lock Service can assist with key fob battery replacement.
Key Fob Battery Lifespan and Cost
Key fob batteries typically last for 2-6 years, depending on usage frequency and the type of key fob (smart keys often have a slightly shorter lifespan due to more constant communication with the vehicle).
The cost of a replacement battery is usually quite affordable, around $5 or less. You can purchase them online from retailers like Amazon and Walmart, or at auto parts stores like AutoZone and general electronics stores.
Conclusion
Knowing “what type of battery goes in a key fob” is essential for every car owner. By understanding common battery types, knowing how to identify the correct one, and recognizing the signs of a dying battery, you can keep your key fob functioning reliably. While DIY replacement is often simple, remember that professionals like us at keyfobx.com are always here to help if you prefer expert assistance or need automotive locksmith services. Keep this guide handy, and you’ll be well-prepared to handle your key fob battery needs.
