Is your 2008 Honda CRV key fob not working like it used to? You might be facing a dead battery. The good news is replacing the battery in your key fob is a straightforward process you can easily do yourself, saving you a trip and expense to the dealership. This guide will walk you through replacing the battery in your 2008 Honda CRV key fob, ensuring you get back to unlocking your car with ease.
The battery you’ll need is a CR1616, a 3V lithium battery. Interestingly, these batteries might not be available at every corner store. While you might find them at drugstores like Walgreens, they might be harder to locate at big box home improvement stores or general retailers like Walmart. You can check online retailers for potentially better deals and availability, but for immediate replacement, a local drugstore is a good first stop.
Once you have your CR1616 battery, here’s how to replace it:
- Locate the small Phillips head screw on the back of your key fob.
- Using a mini-Phillips screwdriver, carefully remove the screw. Be aware that this screw can be quite tight initially, possibly due to threadlocker. To avoid stripping the screw head, apply firm, steady pressure while turning. Using a tool like a vice-grip to get a better hold on the screwdriver can be helpful if you’re struggling. It’s a good idea to work on a soft surface, like a terrycloth, to protect your key fob from scratches.
- Once the screw is removed, gently pry open the two halves (bivalves) of the key fob.
- Inside, you’ll see a black plastic cassette containing the electronics and the battery. This cassette also opens into two halves. Carefully pry this inner cassette open.
- You’ll now see the battery. Remove the old CR1616 battery.
- Install the new CR1616 battery. When inserting the new battery, ensure the positive (+) side (marked with writing) is facing down, so the writing is not visible when installed. It’s recommended to use a cloth to press the battery into place, avoiding direct contact with the battery surfaces.
- Reassemble the inner cassette, then close the key fob halves.
- Finally, replace and tighten the Phillips head screw. Don’t overtighten it.
By following these steps, your 2008 Honda CRV key fob should be powered up with a fresh battery. You’ve successfully completed a DIY battery replacement, potentially saving yourself the $15 or more that a dealer might charge for the same simple service.
