Is your car key fob starting to feel a bit… sluggish? Do you have to press the unlock button multiple times before your car finally responds? You’re likely dealing with a dying key fob battery. Before you rush to the dealership or assume you need an expensive key fob replacement, there’s good news: yes, you can replace a key fob battery yourself, and it’s often a much simpler task than you might think.
Like any battery, the one powering your car’s key fob wears out over time. The good news is that replacing it is usually a straightforward DIY project that can save you time and money. While professional services are available, you can often handle this task yourself with just a few basic tools and a little bit of patience. This guide will walk you through the process of how to replace your key fob battery, ensuring you can get your remote working like new again.
Why Replace Your Key Fob Battery Yourself?
Choosing to replace your key fob battery yourself offers several advantages:
- Save Money: Dealerships and repair shops often charge a premium for simple services like battery replacements. DIYing this task can save you a significant amount of money, as you’ll only need to purchase a new battery.
- Convenience: Instead of scheduling an appointment and waiting at a service center, you can replace the battery in your key fob at your own convenience, in just a few minutes, right at home.
- It’s Easier Than You Think: Despite seeming complex, most key fobs are designed to be opened for battery replacement. With the right guidance, it’s a task that most car owners can confidently tackle.
- Avoid Potential Upselling: Some service providers might try to upsell you on unnecessary services or even a new key fob when a simple battery replacement is all that’s needed. DIYing puts you in control.
Tools You’ll Need to Replace Your Key Fob Battery
Before you begin, gather these simple tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and efficient:
- Small Flathead Screwdriver or Watch Knife: This is crucial for gently prying open the key fob case. A watch knife, designed for delicate work, is ideal, but a small, thin flathead screwdriver will also work. Ensure it’s not too large, as you want to avoid damaging the fob casing.
- Replacement Battery: Key fobs typically use coin cell batteries. The most common type is the CR2032 battery, but other sizes like CR2025, CR2016, CR1632, and CR1220 are also used depending on the car make and model. Crucially, check your key fob or owner’s manual to confirm the correct battery type before purchasing. You can usually find these batteries at drugstores, supermarkets, electronics stores, and of course, battery specialty stores.
- Precision Screwdriver Set (Optional): Some key fobs use tiny screws to secure the case. A precision screwdriver set with sizes ranging from 1.4mm to 2.4mm might be needed if you see screws on your fob.
- Tweezers (Optional but Recommended): Tweezers are helpful for removing the old battery and placing the new one, especially in tight spaces. Plastic tweezers are preferable to avoid short-circuiting anything, but metal tweezers can be used with caution.
- Your Smartphone Camera: This is an invaluable tool! Taking photos as you disassemble the key fob will serve as a visual guide when you reassemble it, ensuring all parts go back in the correct place.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Key Fob Battery
Now, let’s get to the step-by-step process of replacing your key fob battery. Work in a well-lit area and on a clean surface to avoid losing any small parts.
Step 1: Open the Key Fob Case Carefully
- Inspect Your Fob: Examine your key fob closely. Look for a small notch or seam around the edge of the case. This is usually where you’ll insert your flathead screwdriver or watch knife. Some fobs might have screws that need to be removed first – check for tiny screws, usually on the back. If you see screws, use the appropriate precision screwdriver to remove them and skip to opening the case after screw removal.
- Pry Gently: Insert the tip of your flathead screwdriver or watch knife into the notch or seam. Apply gentle, steady pressure to pry the case open. Do not force it. Work your way around the seam gradually, gently twisting or levering the tool to separate the two halves of the case. Think of it like carefully separating two halves of a clam shell.
- Avoid Damage: Be patient and work slowly. Forcing the case open can damage the plastic clips or the case itself, potentially leading to needing a full key fob replacement. Work your tool around the perimeter rather than just focusing on one spot.
Step 2: Identify the Battery Type
- Locate the Battery: Once the case is open, you’ll see the battery compartment. The old battery will be visible.
- Check the Battery Size: Before removing the old battery, take note of the battery type printed on it. It will be a combination of letters and numbers, such as “CR2032” or “CR1620.” Write this down or take a clear photo of it with your phone. This ensures you purchase the correct replacement battery.
- Note Battery Orientation: Observe how the battery is positioned in the compartment. Pay attention to which side is facing up (positive (+) or negative (-)). Some fobs have markings in the battery compartment to indicate polarity. Taking a photo at this stage is extremely helpful for remembering the correct orientation later.
Step 3: Remove and Replace the Battery
- Remove the Old Battery: Use your fingertip or tweezers to carefully remove the old battery. In some fobs, there might be a small clip or retaining mechanism holding the battery in place. Gently maneuver around it to release the battery.
- Install the New Battery: Take your new battery and install it in the same orientation as the old one you just removed. The positive (+) side usually faces upwards, but double-check your photo and the markings in the compartment. Press the new battery firmly into place until it’s securely seated in the compartment.
Step 4: Close the Key Fob Case
- Reassemble the Case: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob case and press them back together. You should hear or feel them snap securely into place. Ensure there are no gaps and the case is fully closed.
- Reinstall Screws (If Applicable): If your key fob had screws, reinsert and tighten them gently. Don’t overtighten, as this can damage the plastic.
- Test Your Key Fob: Try using your key fob to lock and unlock your car, and test any other functions like remote start or panic button. If it works, congratulations! You’ve successfully replaced your key fob battery.
What If Your Key Fob Still Doesn’t Work?
In rare cases, even after replacing the battery, your key fob might not work. Here are a few things to consider:
- Incorrect Battery Type: Double-check that you used the correct battery type. Using the wrong battery, even if it fits, might not provide the necessary voltage.
- Battery Polarity: Ensure the battery is installed in the correct orientation (+ and – sides).
- Dirty Battery Contacts: Sometimes, the metal contacts in the key fob case that touch the battery can become corroded or dirty. Gently clean them with a cotton swab and a tiny bit of rubbing alcohol.
- Key Fob Programming: In very rare instances, disconnecting the battery for an extended period might require the key fob to be reprogrammed to your car. This is uncommon for simple battery changes, but if all else fails, consult your car’s owner’s manual or contact a dealership.
- Key Fob Damage: If your key fob was dropped, damaged, or exposed to moisture, there might be internal damage beyond just the battery. In this case, you might need a key fob replacement.
Where to Get Key Fob Batteries and Replacements
You can find replacement key fob batteries at various locations:
- Drugstores and Supermarkets: Common coin cell batteries like CR2032 are widely available in the battery or electronics sections.
- Electronics Stores: Stores specializing in electronics will have a broader selection of battery types.
- Auto Parts Stores: These stores often carry common key fob batteries and may also offer key fob replacement services.
- Battery Specialty Stores: For the widest selection and expert advice, consider visiting a battery specialty store like Interstate All Battery Center. They can help you find the exact battery you need and even offer key fob replacement services and spare car keys.
Replacing your key fob battery is a simple and rewarding DIY task that can save you money and hassle. By following these steps, you can confidently restore your key fob’s functionality and get back on the road with a fully working remote. Remember to always double-check your battery type and work carefully to avoid damaging your key fob.
