Key fobs are incredibly convenient until they stop working. Often, the culprit is a dead battery. Replacing it yourself is a straightforward task that can save you time and money compared to dealership service. However, a common question when changing a key fob battery is: Which Way Does The Battery Go In A Key Fob? Putting the battery in the correct orientation is crucial for your key fob to function properly. This guide will walk you through the process of changing your key fob battery and ensure you get the battery direction right every time.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Key Fob Battery
Changing your key fob battery generally involves a few simple steps. While specific designs may vary slightly between car manufacturers and models, the fundamental process remains consistent. Here’s how to do it:
1. Remove the Emergency Key
Most key fobs contain a hidden mechanical key, often referred to as an emergency key or valet key. This key is usually detachable and needs to be removed first to access the battery compartment. Look for a release button or latch on your key fob. Press or slide this button to release the mechanical key.
Image alt text: Detachable silver emergency key highlighted on a Dodge car key fob.
On many key fobs, the release mechanism is located where the metal key meets the plastic or metallic fob casing. Once you locate it, gently pull or slide the key to detach it from the fob body.
2. Open the Key Fob Casing
With the mechanical key removed, you’ll now have access to a small notch or opening on the key fob. This is where you’ll need to carefully pry open the casing to reach the battery.
Image alt text: Close-up of key fob back showing the notch indicated by an arrow for prying open the case after removing the physical key.
Using a small flathead screwdriver or a similar thin, sturdy tool, gently insert the tip into the notch. Apply slight pressure to pry the two halves of the key fob casing apart. Be patient and work your way around the seam if necessary, as the casing might be tightly sealed.
Image alt text: Hands using a small screwdriver to carefully pry apart the plastic casing of a key fob to open it for battery replacement.
3. Identify the Battery Orientation
Once the key fob is open, you’ll see the battery. Before removing the old battery, take a close look at how it is positioned. Note the orientation of the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals. Usually, there are small markings inside the battery compartment indicating the correct polarity.
Image alt text: Internal view of an opened key fob revealing the button cell battery and the direction it should be placed within the housing.
Often, the positive (+) side of the battery faces upwards, but this can vary. If you are unsure, you can also check the markings in the battery compartment itself. This step is crucial to answer the question: “which way does the battery go in a key fob?” Getting it wrong can prevent your key fob from working.
4. Replace the Battery and Reassemble
Remove the old battery and replace it with a new battery of the same type. Ensure you place the new battery in the exact same orientation as the old one, matching the positive and negative terminals correctly.
Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly back together until they snap shut. You should hear a click indicating that the casing is securely closed. Finally, reinsert the mechanical key back into the key fob.
Final Check
After reassembling your key fob, test it to ensure it is working correctly. Press the lock and unlock buttons to verify that your car responds. If it works, you’ve successfully replaced your key fob battery! If not, double-check the battery orientation and ensure the battery is new and of the correct type for your key fob model.
Changing your key fob battery is a simple maintenance task that any car owner can perform. By paying attention to the battery orientation and following these steps, you can keep your key fob functioning reliably and avoid unnecessary trips to the dealership.
