Like any battery-operated device, your Dodge key fob relies on a battery to function. Over time, this battery will inevitably lose its charge, leaving you unable to remotely lock, unlock, or start your vehicle. Fortunately, changing your Dodge key fob battery is a straightforward process you can easily do yourself at home. This guide will walk you through the steps for both modern and older style Dodge key fobs, ensuring you get back to enjoying the convenience of your remote key fob in no time.
Changing the Battery in Modern Dodge Key Fobs
If your Dodge key fob is a more recent model, you likely have a fob that doesn’t require insertion into the dashboard to start the car. These fobs are typically easy to open with minimal tools. Here’s how to replace the battery in these modern Dodge key fobs:
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Step 1: Locate and Slide the Release Lever. On the back of your key fob, you’ll find a small lever or button designed to release the emergency key. Slide or press this lever to detach the mechanical emergency key from the fob. Pull the key out and set it aside in a safe place.
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Step 2: Prepare a Flat, Thin Tool. A flathead screwdriver is ideal for this task, but a small pry tool or even a sturdy butter knife can also work. The goal is to gently separate the two halves of the key fob casing without causing damage.
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Step 3: Pry Open the Key Fob Casing. Examine the bottom of the key fob, specifically where the emergency key was just removed. You should see a small slot or seam. Insert the flathead screwdriver or your chosen tool into this slot. Gently twist or pry to begin separating the two halves of the key fob. Work your tool around the seam, carefully applying pressure until the casing starts to split open.
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Step 4: Access and Remove the Old Battery. Once the two halves of the key fob are separated, you’ll see the internal electronics and the battery compartment. The battery is usually a small, round, coin-cell battery. Observe the battery’s orientation before removal, noting which side is facing up (usually indicated by a “+” sign). Use your flat tool to gently slide the old battery out of its housing.
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Step 5: Install the New Battery. The standard replacement battery for most Dodge key fobs is a CR2032 battery. You can find these readily available at most auto parts stores, drugstores, and online retailers. Take your new CR2032 battery and slide it into the battery compartment, ensuring the “+” side is facing the correct direction, matching the orientation you noted earlier or indicated by “+” signs in the battery housing.
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Step 6: Reassemble the Key Fob. Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly back together until they click securely into place. Ensure there are no gaps and the casing is fully closed. Finally, slide the emergency key back into its slot until it clicks and locks. Your modern Dodge key fob battery replacement is now complete!
Changing the Battery in Older Dodge Key Fobs
For older Dodge vehicles, the key fobs might have a slightly different design, often requiring them to be inserted into the ignition dashboard. These fobs typically involve a small screw in their assembly. Here’s how to change the battery in these older Dodge key fobs:
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Step 1: Release the Emergency Key. Just like with the modern fob, begin by locating the lever or button on the back of the older style key fob to release the emergency key. Slide or press the lever, remove the emergency key, and set it aside.
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Step 2: Locate and Remove the Phillips Head Screw. Flip the key fob over so the buttons are facing down and the rounded end is pointing upwards. Look for a tiny Phillips head screw, usually located on the back casing. Use a small Phillips head screwdriver to carefully remove this screw. Keep the screw in a safe place so you don’t lose it.
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Step 3: Separate the Key Fob Halves. With the screw removed, you can now separate the two halves of the key fob casing. A flathead screwdriver or similar thin, flat tool will be helpful here. Insert your tool into the seam where the two halves meet and gently pry them apart. Work around the edges until the casing separates.
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Step 4: Access and Replace the Battery. Once opened, you may see an inner piece containing the electronics. Carefully lift this inner piece out and flip it over to access the battery compartment. Identify the battery, noting its orientation. Use your flat tool to slide the old battery out. Replace it with a new CR2032 battery, ensuring the correct polarity (+ side up).
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Step 5: Reassemble the Older Key Fob. Carefully put the inner electronic piece back into the key fob casing. Align the two halves of the casing and press them together. Ensure they fit snugly. Replace the Phillips head screw and tighten it gently but securely. Finally, re-insert the emergency key until it clicks into place. Your battery replacement for the older Dodge key fob is now complete.
Tips for Changing Your Dodge Key Fob Battery
- Battery Type: Always double-check that you are using the correct replacement battery, typically a CR2032. Refer to your owner’s manual or the markings on the old battery if you are unsure.
- Gentle Handling: Be gentle when prying open the key fob casings to avoid damaging the plastic or internal components.
- Static Electricity: While not typically a major concern for key fobs, try to ground yourself by touching a metal object before handling the electronic components, especially in dry conditions, to minimize static electricity risk.
- Battery Disposal: Dispose of the old battery properly according to local regulations for electronic waste or batteries. Many auto parts stores and recycling centers offer battery disposal services.
- Testing: After reassembly, test your key fob to ensure it is working correctly by attempting to lock and unlock your doors remotely.
Changing your Dodge key fob battery is a simple maintenance task that can save you time and hassle. By following these steps, you can easily restore the functionality of your key fob and avoid being caught out by a dead battery. For more helpful how-to guides and automotive tips, keep checking back with DodgeGarage!
