Is your Mazda CX-9 key fob acting up? Are you experiencing issues like unresponsive buttons or a decreased operating range? The culprit could be a dead or dying key fob battery. Fortunately, replacing the battery in your Mazda CX-9 key fob is a straightforward process you can easily do yourself at home. This guide will walk you through each step of the Mazda Cx-9 Key Fob Battery Replacement, saving you time and potentially a trip to the dealership.
Before we dive into the steps, let’s identify some common signs that indicate it’s time for a new battery in your mazda cx-9 key fob:
- Indicator Light Signals: After switching off your engine, the KEY indicator light (green) on your instrument cluster might flash for about 30 seconds. In newer models with advanced instrument clusters, you might even see messages displayed indicating a low key fob battery.
- Unresponsive Buttons: You press the buttons on your key fob, but the doors don’t lock or unlock, and the operation indicator light on the fob itself doesn’t illuminate.
- Reduced Operational Range: You need to be much closer to your Mazda CX-9 than usual for the key fob to function.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s highly likely a battery replacement is needed. Let’s get started with the replacement process.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these simple tools:
- New Battery: You’ll need one CR2025 battery or an equivalent. This is a common type of coin cell battery readily available at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers.
- Small Flathead Screwdriver: A small, flathead screwdriver will be used to carefully open the key fob casing.
- Tape (Optional): Wrapping the tip of your screwdriver with tape can help prevent scratches to the key fob casing.
Step-by-Step Mazda CX-9 Key Fob Battery Replacement
Now, let’s proceed with the battery replacement. Follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Remove the Auxiliary Key
Locate the small knob or release button on your key fob. Press and hold it while pulling out the auxiliary key. This is a standard mechanical key hidden within the fob.
Step 2: Begin Opening the Key Fob Casing
Take your flathead screwdriver (preferably with the tip wrapped in tape). Look for a small slot or seam on the side of the key fob where the two halves of the casing meet. Insert the tip of the screwdriver into this slot. Gently twist the screwdriver in the direction indicated by the arrow in the image below to slightly pry open the cover.
Step 3: Slide and Separate the Casing
Once you’ve created a small gap, insert the tape-wrapped flathead screwdriver further into the gap. Slide the screwdriver along the seam in the direction of the arrow as shown. This will help to separate the two halves of the key fob casing.
Step 4: Remove the Key Fob Cover
Continue to gently twist the flathead screwdriver in the direction of the arrow to fully detach and remove the cover from the key fob.
Step 5: Access and Remove the Old Battery
You will now see the battery compartment. Locate and remove the battery cap, if there is one. Then, carefully remove the old CR2025 battery. Note the orientation of the battery – the positive (+) pole should be facing upwards.
- Important: Pay close attention to a small rubber ring that might be around the battery compartment. Be careful not to scratch or damage this ring. If it comes loose, make sure to reattach it before inserting the new battery. This ring helps protect the key fob from moisture and dust.
Step 6: Install the New Battery
Insert the new CR2025 battery into the compartment. Ensure the positive (+) pole is facing upwards, matching the orientation of the old battery. Replace the battery cap if there was one.
Step 7: Close the Key Fob Casing
Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly together until they snap securely closed. Ensure there are no gaps and the casing is properly sealed.
Step 8: Reinsert the Auxiliary Key
Slide the auxiliary key back into its slot in the key fob until it clicks into place.
Important Cautions
While replacing the battery is simple, keep these important cautions in mind:
- Correct Battery Installation: Ensure the new battery is installed with the correct polarity (positive side up). Incorrect installation can lead to battery leakage and damage to your key fob.
- Handle with Care: When replacing the battery, avoid touching any internal circuitry or electrical terminals. Be gentle and don’t bend any terminals or allow dirt to get inside the transmitter, as this could damage the key fob.
- Battery Disposal: Used batteries can be hazardous. To dispose of them safely:
- Insulate the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals with cellophane or electrical tape.
- Never disassemble, throw into fire or water, deform, or crush the battery.
- Dispose of used batteries according to your local regulations for hazardous waste.
- Battery Type: Always replace the old battery with a new one of the same type – CR2025 or an equivalent. Using a different type of battery could damage your key fob or affect its performance.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully replaced the battery in your Mazda CX-9 key fob. This simple DIY task can save you time and money. By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure your key fob is functioning correctly and reliably. If you encounter any difficulties or are uncomfortable performing this replacement yourself, it’s always recommended to visit an Authorized Mazda Repairer for assistance.
