Where to Buy Key Fob Batteries: Your Ultimate Guide to Replacement

Is your car key fob starting to feel a little unresponsive? Are you pressing the unlock button multiple times just to get your car to acknowledge you? It might be a clear sign that your key fob battery is dying and it’s time for a replacement. Many car owners face this common issue, and the good news is, swapping out your key fob battery is often a simple DIY task. But before you start, the first question that pops into mind is: Where To Buy Key Fob Batteries?

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding the right replacement battery for your car key fob. We’ll cover the types of batteries you need, where to purchase them, and even provide a step-by-step guide on how to replace the battery yourself, saving you time and money compared to dealership or professional services. Let’s dive in and get your key fob working like new again!

Why Key Fob Batteries Die and When to Replace Them

Like any battery, key fob batteries have a limited lifespan. Several factors contribute to their eventual depletion. Frequent use is a primary factor; the more you use your key fob to lock, unlock, or activate features like remote start, the faster the battery will drain. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can also negatively impact battery life. Even if you don’t use your key fob frequently, the battery will still slowly discharge over time due to natural chemical processes.

Recognizing the signs of a dying key fob battery is crucial. Common indicators include:

Reduced Range: You need to be closer to your car than usual for the key fob to work.
Intermittent Operation: The key fob works sometimes, but not consistently.
Multiple Presses Required: You have to press buttons repeatedly for your car to respond.
Dashboard Warning Light: Some cars display a warning message on the dashboard indicating a low key fob battery.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s wise to replace your key fob battery promptly to avoid being locked out of your vehicle or experiencing inconvenience.

Where Can You Buy Key Fob Batteries? Top Retailers and Options

Now, let’s get to the core question: where to buy key fob batteries? Thankfully, finding replacement batteries is usually quite easy and convenient. You have several options depending on your needs and preferences:

Local Retail Stores: This is often the most accessible and quickest option. Many stores that sell standard household batteries also carry coin cell batteries commonly used in key fobs. Consider checking these retailers:
- Drugstores and Pharmacies: Chains like Walgreens, CVS, and Rite Aid typically have a battery section where you can find CR2032 and other common key fob battery sizes.
- Grocery Stores: Large supermarkets like Kroger, Safeway, and Walmart often stock batteries in their general merchandise or electronics sections.
- Big Box Retailers: Stores like Walmart and Target are excellent places to find a wide variety of batteries, including key fob batteries, at competitive prices.
- Automotive Parts Stores: Auto parts stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and O’Reilly Auto Parts are reliable sources for car-related batteries, including key fob batteries. Staff here can also offer advice specific to automotive needs.
- Electronics Stores: Stores like Best Buy or local electronics retailers might carry a broader selection of specialized batteries, though prices might be slightly higher.
- Battery Specialty Stores: For dedicated battery expertise and a wide range of options, consider stores like Interstate All Battery Center. These stores specialize in batteries of all types and can provide knowledgeable assistance.
Online Marketplaces: The internet offers a vast marketplace for key fob batteries. Online retailers provide convenience and often competitive pricing:
- Amazon: Amazon is a major online retailer with a huge selection of key fob batteries from various brands. You can easily compare prices and read customer reviews.
- eBay: eBay can be a good source for finding batteries, sometimes at discounted prices. Be sure to check seller ratings before purchasing.
- Specialty Battery Websites: Websites that specialize in batteries, like Battery Mart or Batteries Plus Bulbs, offer a wide selection and expert information.
Car Dealerships: While generally the most expensive option, car dealerships are guaranteed to have the correct battery for your specific vehicle model. If you prefer the assurance of getting the exact OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) battery and are less concerned about cost, dealerships are an option. They may also offer battery replacement service.
Professional Car Repair Shops: Your local mechanic or car repair shop can also replace your key fob battery. This is a convenient option if you are already taking your car in for other service, but it will likely be more expensive than DIY.

Choosing the Right Key Fob Battery: Size and Type

Before you head out to buy a replacement, it’s essential to know what type of battery your key fob needs. Using the wrong battery can prevent your key fob from working or even damage it.

Identify the Battery Size: The most common type of key fob battery is a CR2032 coin cell battery. However, other sizes like CR2025, CR2016, CR2450, and CR1620 are also used depending on the car make and model.
Check Your Key Fob: The easiest way to determine the correct battery size is to check your key fob itself.
- Open the Fob (If Possible): Carefully open your key fob (refer to your owner’s manual or online guides if needed). The battery size is usually printed directly on the battery itself.
- Look for Markings on the Fob Casing: Some key fobs have the battery type embossed or printed on the back or inside the battery compartment.
- Consult Your Owner’s Manual: Your car’s owner’s manual should specify the correct key fob battery type.
- Online Resources: Websites like the Interstate Batteries website or online battery finders (search “key fob battery finder”) allow you to input your car’s make, model, and year to identify the correct battery.
Lithium Coin Cell Batteries: Key fobs typically use lithium coin cell batteries. These batteries offer a long lifespan and stable power output, crucial for reliable key fob operation. Ensure you purchase a lithium battery and not another type of coin cell battery (like alkaline) unless specifically recommended for your key fob.

CR2032 and Other Common Key Fob Batteries

The CR2032 battery is by far the most prevalent type used in car key fobs. The “CR” designation indicates it’s a lithium battery with a round (coin) shape. “2032” specifies its dimensions: 20mm in diameter and 3.2mm in thickness.

Other common key fob battery sizes include:

CR2025: Similar to CR2032 but slightly thinner (2.5mm thickness). Sometimes interchangeable with CR2032, but check your fob’s specifications.
CR2016: Thinner than CR2025 (1.6mm thickness), used in slimmer key fobs.
CR2450: Larger diameter and thicker than CR2032 (24.5mm diameter, 5.0mm thickness), used in fobs requiring more power or longer life.
CR1620: Smaller diameter and thinner (16mm diameter, 2.0mm thickness), used in very compact key fobs.
CR1632: Similar diameter to CR1620 but thicker (3.2mm thickness).

Always verify the correct battery size for your specific key fob before purchasing to ensure proper fit and function.

DIY Key Fob Battery Replacement: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Once you have your replacement battery, you can usually replace it yourself in a few minutes with simple tools. Here’s a general guide:

Tools You’ll Need:

New Key Fob Battery: The correct size and type for your key fob.
Small Flathead Screwdriver or Pry Tool: A watch knife or similar thin blade works well for prying open the fob case.
Precision Screwdriver Set (Optional): Some fobs use tiny screws.
Tweezers (Optional): To handle the small battery.
Your Phone Camera: To take pictures for reference.

Steps:

Prepare Your Workspace: Find a clean, well-lit area to work. Place a soft cloth down to protect the key fob and catch any small parts.
Open the Key Fob Casing: Examine your key fob for a small notch or seam. Use your flathead screwdriver or pry tool to gently wedge it into the opening and carefully pry the case apart. Avoid forcing it, as you could damage the casing. Some fobs might have tiny screws that need to be removed first.
Take a Photo: Before removing the old battery, take a picture of the battery compartment with your phone. This will help you remember the battery orientation (positive and negative sides).
Remove the Old Battery: Note the orientation of the old battery (+ side up or down). Use your tweezers or gently pry the battery out of its holder.
Install the New Battery: Insert the new battery in the same orientation as the old one (refer to your photo if needed). Ensure it’s securely seated in the battery compartment.
Close the Key Fob Casing: Carefully snap the key fob casing back together. Ensure it’s fully closed and secure. If you removed screws, re-install them.
Test Your Key Fob: Test all the buttons on your key fob to ensure it’s working correctly.

Important Tips:

Be Gentle: Handle the key fob and its components with care to avoid damage.
Don’t Force Anything: If the case is difficult to open, re-examine it for screws or a different opening mechanism.
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 You’re Unsure: If you’re uncomfortable with DIY, take your key fob to a professional battery store, auto parts store, or dealership for battery replacement.

Conclusion: Reliable Power is Within Reach

Replacing your key fob battery is a simple and cost-effective way to restore your key fob’s functionality. Knowing where to buy key fob batteries – from local stores to online retailers and specialty battery centers like Interstate All Battery Center – empowers you to quickly find the right replacement. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently handle the battery replacement yourself and enjoy the convenience of a fully functional key fob once again. Don’t let a dead battery leave you stranded – get your replacement battery today and keep your car keys working perfectly!