Is your 2018 Mazda 6 key fob acting up? Are you finding yourself pressing the buttons harder or closer to your car for it to respond? The culprit might be a dead or dying key fob battery. Fortunately, replacing the battery in your Mazda 6 key fob is a straightforward process you can easily do yourself. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you get your key fob back in top working condition in no time.
Recognizing the Signs of a Low Key Fob Battery
Before your key fob completely stops working, your 2018 Mazda 6 will give you some warning signs that the battery is getting weak. Keep an eye out for these indicators:
- Flashing KEY Indicator: The green KEY indicator light on your instrument cluster might flash for about 30 seconds after you switch off the engine. This is a clear signal that the key fob battery is low. Some models will also display a message directly on the instrument cluster.
- Unresponsive Buttons: You might notice that you have to press the buttons on your key fob multiple times, or very firmly, for your Mazda 6 to respond. Sometimes, the operation indicator light on the key fob itself might not even flash when you press a button.
- Reduced Operating Range: You may need to be much closer to your vehicle than usual for the key fob to lock or unlock the doors or start the engine remotely.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to replace your 2018 Mazda 6 Key Fob Battery.
What You’ll Need for a Key Fob Battery Replacement
Replacing your key fob battery is a quick and easy task, and you only need a few simple tools:
- New Battery: You’ll need one CR2025 type battery. This is a common and readily available button cell battery.
- Small Flathead Screwdriver: A small, flathead screwdriver will help you open the key fob casing. It’s recommended to wrap the tip with tape to prevent scratching the key fob.
- Tape (Cellophane or Equivalent): To wrap the screwdriver and insulate the old battery terminals for safe disposal.
Step-by-Step 2018 Mazda 6 Key Fob Battery Replacement Guide
Follow these steps to replace your 2018 Mazda 6 key fob battery:
Step 1: Remove the Auxiliary Key
Locate the small knob or release button on your key fob. Press and hold this while pulling out the auxiliary key. This key is a physical backup to unlock your car door manually if needed.
Step 2: Open the Key Fob Casing
Now you’ll need to carefully open the key fob casing.
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Initial Twist: Insert the tip of your tape-wrapped flathead screwdriver into the small slot on the side of the key fob, near where you removed the auxiliary key. Gently twist the screwdriver in the direction indicated (usually outwards) to slightly separate the cover.
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Slide and Pry: Once you’ve created a small gap, insert the tape-wrapped flathead screwdriver further into the gap. Slide the screwdriver along the seam of the key fob in the direction of the arrow (usually along the length of the fob). This will help to loosen the cover. You might need to gently pry the two halves of the casing apart.
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Remove the Cover: Continue twisting or gently prying with the screwdriver until the cover is completely detached from the key fob body.
Step 3: Battery Removal and Replacement
With the key fob open, you’ll see the battery compartment.
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Remove Battery Cap: If there’s a battery cap (small plastic or metal piece holding the battery in place), carefully remove it.
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Remove Old Battery: Gently remove the old CR2025 battery. You may be able to use your fingertip or the flathead screwdriver to nudge it out.
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Inspect Rubber Ring: Check for a small rubber ring around the battery compartment. Be careful not to scratch or damage this ring, as it helps protect the key fob from moisture. If it has detached, make sure to carefully reattach it in its correct position before inserting the new battery.
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Insert New Battery: Insert the new CR2025 battery with the positive (+) side facing upwards. Replace the battery cap if there was one.
Step 4: Close the Key Fob
Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly together until they snap securely closed. Ensure there are no gaps and the cover is properly sealed.
Step 5: Reinsert the Auxiliary Key
Slide the auxiliary key back into its slot in the key fob until it clicks into place.
Important Battery Precautions
- Battery Type: Always replace the battery with the same type: CR2025 or an equivalent. Using a different type of battery could damage your key fob.
- Correct Installation: Ensure the battery is installed with the correct polarity (positive side up). Incorrect installation can lead to battery leakage.
- Handle with Care: When replacing the battery, avoid touching the internal circuitry and electrical terminals. Be careful not to bend any terminals or allow dirt to get inside the transmitter, as this could damage the key fob.
- Battery Disposal: Dispose of used batteries responsibly. Insulate the positive and negative terminals with tape before disposal. Never disassemble, throw into fire or water, deform, or crush batteries. Consult local regulations for proper battery disposal methods.
- Explosion Risk: There is a risk of explosion if the battery is not replaced correctly or if the wrong type is used.
By following these simple steps, you can easily replace your 2018 Mazda 6 key fob battery and ensure your remote functions reliably. If you are uncomfortable performing this task yourself, you can always have the battery replaced at an Authorized Mazda Dealer.
