Is your car key fob starting to feel sluggish? Are you pressing the unlock button multiple times before your car finally responds? It’s a common frustration, and the culprit is often a dying battery in your key fob. Before you panic thinking you need a costly key fob replacement, the solution might be as simple as swapping out the battery.
Many car owners find themselves wondering, “Where Can I Get A Battery For My Key Fob?” The good news is, finding a replacement battery is usually straightforward and you have several convenient options. And even better news – you can often replace it yourself!
Let’s dive into where you can source a new battery for your car key fob and how to handle the replacement process.
DIY Key Fob Battery Replacement: Is It For You?
Yes, you absolutely can replace your key fob battery yourself! It’s a surprisingly simple task that can save you time and money compared to going to a dealership or repair shop. Think of it like changing batteries in a remote control – just on a slightly smaller scale.
With a few basic tools, you can give your car key fob a new lease on life. Here’s what you’ll typically need:
- A Small, Flat Tool: A watch knife or a thin flathead screwdriver works perfectly for carefully prying open the key fob case.
- The Correct Replacement Battery: Most key fobs use common coin cell batteries, often the CR2032. We’ll discuss how to identify the right one shortly.
- A Precision Screwdriver (Possibly): Some key fobs have tiny screws holding them together. Check if you need a small Phillips head screwdriver (around 1.4mm to 2.4mm) for your model.
- Tweezers (Helpful): Tweezers can be handy for removing and inserting the small battery, especially in tight spaces.
- Your Smartphone Camera: This is crucial! Taking photos as you disassemble the fob will ensure you put everything back together correctly.
Opening a key fob with a watch knife, a simple process demonstrated by Mike Harris, Interstate All Battery Center manager.
Once you have your tools and new battery, the replacement process generally follows these easy steps:
- Open the Key Fob Case: Using your flat tool, gently pry open the plastic case of your key fob. Most fobs have a small notch or seam to help you get started. Work your tool around the edge, gently popping open the fasteners. Avoid forcing it, as you could damage the case.
- Remove the Old Battery: Once open, locate the battery. It’s usually easily accessible. Use tweezers or your fingertip to carefully remove the old battery. Note the orientation of the battery (+ side up or down) – your photos will be helpful here!
- Insert the New Battery: Place the new battery in the same orientation as the old one. Ensure it’s securely seated in its compartment.
- Close the Key Fob Case: 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.
Finding the Right Key Fob Battery: Size Matters
Before you head out to buy a battery, it’s essential to know the correct type for your key fob. Using the wrong battery can prevent your fob from working or even damage it.
The good news is, identifying the right battery is usually straightforward:
1. Check Your Key Fob Case: Many key fobs have the battery type embossed on the back or inside the battery compartment. Look for markings like “CR2032,” “CR1620,” or similar codes.
2. Consult Your Owner’s Manual: Your car’s owner’s manual is a treasure trove of information. It should specify the correct battery type for your key fob in the vehicle information or key/remote section.
3. Open the Key Fob (Carefully): If you can’t find the battery type externally, carefully open your key fob as described earlier. The battery type is almost always printed directly on the battery itself. Take a picture before removing the battery! This is crucial for reassembly and battery orientation.
Common Key Fob Battery Types:
While battery types can vary depending on your car’s make, model, and year, some common types you’ll encounter include:
- CR2032: This is perhaps the most common key fob battery. It’s a 3V lithium coin cell battery.
- CR2025: Similar to CR2032 but slightly thinner.
- CR1632, CR1620, CR1616: These are also 3V lithium coin cell batteries, varying in thickness and diameter.
- CR1220: Another smaller 3V lithium coin cell.
It’s always best to double-check and confirm the exact battery type needed for your specific key fob before purchasing.
Where to Buy Key Fob Batteries: Convenient Options
Now that you know what battery you need, “where can I get a battery for my key fob?” Here are several convenient places to purchase replacement batteries:
1. Interstate All Battery Center: For a reliable source specializing in batteries, Interstate All Battery Center is an excellent choice. They stock a wide variety of key fob batteries, including the common CR2032 and other less common types. Their experts can also help you identify the correct battery if you’re unsure. Plus, they offer key fob replacement services if you prefer professional help.
2. Local Battery Stores: Dedicated battery stores, like Interstate All Battery Center, are your best bet for finding a wide selection and knowledgeable staff.
3. Drugstores and Pharmacies: Major drugstores like Walgreens or CVS, and pharmacies commonly carry CR2032 batteries and other common coin cell sizes in their battery aisles.
4. Big Box Retailers: Stores like Walmart and Target also stock batteries, usually in their electronics or checkout areas. You can often find CR2032 and similar batteries here.
5. Automotive Parts Stores: Auto parts stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and O’Reilly Auto Parts usually carry a selection of car batteries and smaller batteries, including key fob batteries.
6. Online Retailers: Amazon and other online retailers offer a vast selection of key fob batteries. This can be convenient, but ensure you are buying from a reputable seller and verify the battery type before ordering.
7. Car Dealerships (Less Ideal for Just Batteries): While dealerships sell key fobs and batteries, they are generally a more expensive option for just a battery replacement. They are best reserved for situations where you need key fob programming or a full replacement.
Looking for a spare key fob or battery? Interstate All Battery Center provides solutions at competitive prices.
Important Tips for Key Fob Battery Replacement
- Work in a Clean, Well-Lit Area: Small key fob parts can be easily lost. A clean workspace will help you keep track of everything.
- Take Pictures! We can’t stress this enough. Before and during disassembly, take photos, especially of the battery orientation and internal components.
- Handle Components Gently: The internal circuitry of a key fob is delicate. Avoid touching components unnecessarily and be careful not to damage anything when opening or closing the case.
- Don’t Force Anything: If the case is difficult to open, double-check for hidden screws or latches. Forcing it can break the plastic housing.
- Static Electricity: While not usually a major concern for key fob batteries, grounding yourself by touching a metal object before handling the circuit board can minimize any risk from static electricity.
- Proper Battery Disposal: Dispose of old lithium batteries responsibly at designated recycling locations. Don’t just throw them in the trash.
Conclusion: Key Fob Battery Replacements are Easy to Find
When your key fob starts acting up, don’t immediately assume the worst. Often, a simple battery replacement is all you need to restore its functionality. And when you’re wondering “where can I get a battery for my key fob?”, remember you have numerous convenient options, from specialist battery centers like Interstate All Battery Center to local drugstores and online retailers.
By following these steps and tips, you can confidently replace your key fob battery yourself, saving time and money. And if you ever need further assistance or a key fob replacement, remember that expert help is readily available.
