Is your car key fob becoming less responsive? Are you pressing the unlock button multiple times before your car finally reacts? It might be time to replace the battery in your key fob. Like any battery, car key fob batteries wear out over time, and a weak battery can be a major inconvenience. Fortunately, replacing a car key fob battery is a straightforward task you can easily do yourself, saving you time and money compared to visiting a dealership or repair shop.
While you could seek professional help from a dealership or auto repair service, or even a battery specialist, changing your key fob battery at home is surprisingly simple. It’s significantly easier than replacing your car’s main battery and only requires a few common household tools and a new battery. With a little patience and the right approach, you can restore your key fob to its optimal working condition. If you’re concerned that your car key fob is failing, the good news is that a battery replacement might be all you need to get it working like new again.
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Yes, You Can Easily Replace Your Key Fob Battery
Replacing your key fob battery is a task achievable for almost anyone with a few basic tools. Here’s what you’ll typically need:
- A thin, flat tool: A watch knife or a small flathead screwdriver works perfectly for gently prying open the key fob casing.
- A new battery: Most key fobs use a CR2032 coin cell battery, readily available at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers. It’s always a good idea to check your owner’s manual or the old battery itself to confirm the correct type.
- A small precision screwdriver (possibly): Depending on your key fob model, you might need a small screwdriver (around 1.4mm to 2.4mm) to remove tiny screws.
- Tweezers (optional but helpful): Tweezers can be useful for handling the small battery, especially when removing the old one and inserting the new one.
- Your smartphone for photos: Taking pictures during the process, especially before removing the old battery, can be a lifesaver if you need a reference later.
The process for installing a new key fob battery is generally quick and easy:
- Open the key fob case: Carefully use your flat tool to pry open the plastic casing of your key fob.
- Remove the old battery: Take out the dead battery. Note its orientation (positive and negative sides).
- Insert the new battery: Place the new battery in the same orientation as the old one.
- Close the case: Snap the key fob case back together until it’s securely closed.
- Joseph De La Rosa, store manager at Interstate All Battery Center in Surprise, Arizona, showcasing the key fob battery replacement process. | Video: Joseph De La Rosa*
First, Check Your Key Fob for the Battery Type
Before you start taking apart your key fob, it’s wise to check if the battery type is indicated on the case itself. Sometimes, the battery size is embossed on the back of the key fob or inside the key sleeve.
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It’s frustrating to disassemble your key fob only to realize you have the wrong replacement battery. While many car key fobs use the standard CR2032 coin cell battery, variations exist depending on the year, make, and model of your vehicle. For example, some Honda CR-V models require a CR1250 battery. Also, while most key fobs use only one battery, some, like those for Ford Mustangs, may require two.
If you can’t find the battery type on the key fob case, don’t worry. You can still determine the correct battery by carefully opening the fob.
- Mike Harris, Interstate All Battery Center manager of production and engineering, easily opens a key fob using a watch knife. | Image: Mike Harris*
Gently Wedge Your Tool to Open the Key Fob Case
When opening your car key fob, gentle and patient approach is key. Avoid forcing it open, as this could damage the casing or internal components. Once you’ve located a point to start prying – many key fobs have a small notch designed for this purpose – insert your flathead screwdriver or watch knife into the gap.
Resist the urge to simply pull the case apart from the initial opening. This can easily lead to breakage and necessitate a complete key fob replacement. Instead, work your tool around the seam of the case, gently prying section by section. Think of it like carefully peeling an orange; applying steady, gentle pressure around the perimeter will gradually pop the fasteners open without excessive force.
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Be mindful not to apply too much pressure at any single point, as this could cause the case to suddenly burst open, potentially scattering the internal components of your fob.
Always Take a Photo of the Key Fob Interior
Car key fobs can have different internal layouts, even within the same car make and model year. Before you remove the old battery, taking a quick photo of the open key fob is a highly recommended precaution. This photo will serve as a valuable reference when you’re reassembling the fob, ensuring that all parts go back in their correct positions.
This simple step can save you from potential headaches and the expense of a key fob replacement. Your photo will clearly show the battery’s orientation, indicating whether the positive (+) side faces up or down, which is crucial for correct installation of the new battery.
Handle the Internal Components with Care
Once the key fob is open, be cautious not to disturb any of the internal wiring or the circuit board. Mishandling these delicate components could lead to serious malfunctions and, you guessed it, the need for a new key fob.
Use tweezers or a similar precision tool to carefully lift the battery out of its housing. Some key fobs have small clips or sliding metal pieces that secure the battery in place. You may need to gently move these aside to remove the battery, but avoid pulling out the circuit board or any antennas.
Remember that the circuit board holds the programming that links your key fob to your car. Disrupting the circuitry could require you to visit a dealership or a specialized service, like select Interstate All Battery Center locations, to reprogram your key fob. Avoid unnecessary complications by handling the internal components with care.
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Choose long-lasting power from the name you trust. Get your next car battery and key fob battery at Interstate All Battery Center.
