Is your car key fob acting up? Are you pressing buttons multiple times just to unlock your car? It might be a sign that your key fob battery is dying and needs replacing. Knowing Where Do You Get Batteries For Key Fobs is the first step to solving this common car owner problem. While you could head to a dealership or auto repair shop, replacing your key fob battery is often a simple DIY task. This guide will walk you through where to find the right replacement batteries and how to get your key fob working like new again.
Understanding Your Key Fob Battery Needs
Before you rush out to buy a battery, it’s important to understand what kind of battery your key fob requires. Most car key fobs use small, round batteries known as coin cell or button batteries. The most common type is the CR2032, but other types like CR2025, CR2016, CR1632, and CR1220 are also used depending on your car’s make, model, and year.
To find out exactly where do you get batteries for key fobs that fit your car, you first need to identify the correct battery type. A quick way to check is by looking at your key fob itself. Some key fobs have the battery type embossed on the back or inside the battery compartment. If not, don’t worry, you can easily find out once you open the fob.
Where to Buy Key Fob Batteries: Top Locations
Now, let’s get to the main question: where do you get batteries for key fobs? You have several convenient options:
- Retail Stores: Drugstores, supermarkets, and general retailers like Walmart or Target are excellent places to find common key fob batteries like CR2032. They usually have a battery section where you can find a variety of sizes and brands. This is often the quickest and most accessible option for many people.
- Online Marketplaces: Websites like Amazon and eBay offer a vast selection of key fob batteries. You can find specific battery types, often at competitive prices, and have them delivered to your door. Online retailers are great if you need a less common battery type or prefer the convenience of shopping from home.
- Auto Parts Stores: Stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and O’Reilly Auto Parts also stock key fob batteries. These stores are particularly helpful because staff can often assist you in finding the correct battery for your car model if you are unsure. They may also carry specialized tools for key fob repair if needed.
- Battery Specialty Stores: Stores specializing in batteries, like Interstate All Battery Center, offer a wide range of batteries, including those for key fobs. These centers often have knowledgeable staff who can help you identify the right battery and may even offer battery replacement services.
- Car Dealerships (Less Recommended for Just Batteries): While dealerships will certainly have key fob batteries, they are generally the most expensive option. Dealerships are best for complex key fob issues or replacements, but for just a battery, it’s usually more cost-effective to go to one of the other locations mentioned.
Replacing Your Key Fob Battery: A Simple DIY Guide
Once you know where do you get batteries for key fobs and have the correct replacement battery, you can often replace it yourself. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on the original article:
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Gather Your Tools: You’ll likely need a small flathead screwdriver or a watch knife to gently pry open the key fob case. Having tweezers can also be helpful for handling the small battery. A precision screwdriver (1.4mm to 2.4mm) might be needed for some fobs with screws.
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Open the Key Fob Case: Carefully use your flathead screwdriver or watch knife to wedge it into the seam of the key fob case. Gently pry around the case until it pops open. Avoid forcing it open from one point, as this can damage the case.
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Take a Photo (Optional but Recommended): Before removing the old battery, take a picture of the inside of the key fob with your phone. This is a helpful reference for putting everything back together correctly, especially noting the battery orientation (+ and – sides).
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Remove the Old Battery: Use tweezers or your fingers to carefully remove the old battery. Note how it is positioned in the case before removing it.
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Insert the New Battery: Place the new battery into the compartment, making sure the polarity (+ and -) is correct, just like the old battery. Your photo reference will be useful here.
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Close the Key Fob Case: Snap the key fob case back together until it is securely closed. You should hear a click or feel it tighten.
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Test Your Key Fob: Try using your key fob to unlock your car. If it works, you’ve successfully replaced the battery!
Tips for Key Fob Battery Replacement
- Check Battery Size Before Opening (If Possible): Some key fobs indicate the battery type on the outside. If yours does, check it to save a trip to the store.
- Gentle is Key: When opening the key fob, be gentle to avoid breaking the plastic case or internal components.
- Don’t Touch the Circuit Board: Avoid touching the circuit board or any wiring inside the key fob to prevent damage.
- Correct Battery Type is Crucial: Always use the correct battery type specified for your key fob to ensure proper function and prevent damage.
- Consider a Spare Key Fob: If you only have one key fob, consider getting a spare. Losing or breaking your only key fob can be a major inconvenience. Some battery centers and dealerships offer key fob replacement services.
Conclusion: Key Fob Battery Replacements Made Easy
Knowing where do you get batteries for key fobs and how to replace them yourself can save you time and money. With readily available batteries at various retail locations and a simple DIY process, there’s no need to panic when your key fob battery dies. So next time your car key fob starts acting up, you’ll be prepared to quickly and easily restore it to full power!
