Have you ever pressed the button on your key fob and nothing happens? It’s a common frustration for drivers. Often, the culprit is simply a dead battery. Fortunately, changing your key fob battery is usually a quick and easy task you can do yourself, saving you time and a trip to the dealership. This guide from keyfobprog.com will walk you through the process of how to get your key fob battery out and replaced, ensuring you’re back on the road with a functioning remote in no time.
To get started, you’ll need a few basic tools and a replacement battery. Let’s get into the details.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these simple tools:
- Small Screwdriver or Pry Tool: A flathead screwdriver, or even a small plastic pry tool (like those used for electronics repair) will be necessary to open the key fob casing.
- New Battery: You’ll need the correct replacement battery for your key fob. The battery type is usually a small, round, flat battery, often a CR2032, CR2025, or CR1632. Check your owner’s manual or the old battery itself to confirm the correct type.
Once you have your tools and new battery, you’re ready to begin.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Your Key Fob Battery
The process for removing a key fob battery generally involves these steps:
Step 1: Remove the Mechanical Key
Most key fobs contain a hidden mechanical key for manually unlocking your car door. This key usually needs to be removed first to access the battery compartment.
Look for a small release button or latch on your key fob. This is often located on the side or bottom of the fob. Press or slide the release, and the mechanical key should slide out.
On many key fobs, the area where the mechanical key is removed also provides a point to begin opening the casing.
Step 2: Open the Key Fob Casing
With the mechanical key removed, you’ll now need to carefully open the key fob casing to access the battery.
Examine the fob for a small slot or seam, often where the mechanical key was located. This is where you’ll insert your small screwdriver or pry tool.
Gently insert the tip of your screwdriver into the slot and twist or pry carefully. Key fobs are designed to be relatively secure, so you may need to apply a bit of pressure. Work your way around the seam of the fob, gently prying it apart. Avoid using excessive force, as you could damage the casing.
The casing may be held together by small clips or latches. Once you’ve worked your way around, the two halves of the key fob should separate.
Step 3: Remove and Replace the Old Battery
Once the key fob is open, you’ll see the battery. Take note of how the old battery is positioned, specifically which side is facing up (positive or negative). This is crucial for installing the new battery correctly.
The battery may be held in place by small clips or pressure. You may be able to gently pry it out with your fingertip or the edge of your screwdriver.
Remove the old battery and insert the new battery, ensuring it’s placed in the same orientation as the old one. The positive (+) and negative (-) sides of the battery and battery compartment are usually marked.
Step 4: Reassemble the Key Fob
With the new battery in place, carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing. Press them firmly together until they snap back into place. You should hear a click, indicating that the casing is securely closed.
Finally, slide the mechanical key back into the key fob until it clicks into its locked position.
Test Your Key Fob
After reassembling your key fob, test it to ensure it’s working correctly. Press the lock and unlock buttons to see if your car responds. If it does, you’ve successfully replaced your key fob battery!
Changing your key fob battery is a simple maintenance task that can save you inconvenience and money. By following these steps, you can easily get your key fob working again and avoid being stranded with a dead remote.
