Is your car key fob starting to act up? Do you have to press the buttons multiple times to lock or unlock your doors? It might be more than just a minor annoyance; it could be a sign that your key fob battery is dying. Before you rush to a dealership or repair shop, you should know that replacing your key fob battery is often a simple DIY task.
Knowing what kind of battery does your key fob take is the first step to solving this common car problem. While it might seem complicated, understanding the basics of key fob batteries and how to replace them can save you time and money. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to identify the right battery for your key fob and get it changed quickly and efficiently.
Identifying the Right Key Fob Battery Type
The most common type of battery you’ll find in your key fob is a CR2032 coin cell battery. This small, round battery is widely used in various electronic devices, including car key fobs. However, not all key fobs are the same, and different car manufacturers and models may use different types of batteries. So, while CR2032 is a good starting point, it’s crucial to confirm the specific battery your key fob requires.
Here’s how to figure out what kind of battery your key fob takes:
1. Check Your Key Fob Case
The easiest way to determine the correct battery is to check your key fob itself. Many key fobs have the battery type embossed directly on the back of the case or inside the battery compartment. Look for markings like “CR2032,” “CR2025,” “CR2016,” or similar codes. These codes indicate the type of coin cell battery your fob uses.
2. Consult Your Owner’s Manual
Your car’s owner’s manual is another reliable source of information. Look for the section on key fobs or remote controls. It should specify the exact battery type required for your vehicle’s key fob.
3. Open Your Key Fob (Carefully)
If you can’t find the battery type on the case or in the owner’s manual, you might need to carefully open your key fob. Before you start prying, remember to be gentle to avoid damaging the casing.
Tools You Might Need:
- Small Flathead Screwdriver or Watch Knife: For gently prying open the key fob case.
- Precision Screwdriver Set: Some key fobs use small screws to secure the case.
- Tweezers: To handle the small battery.
- Your Smartphone Camera: Take pictures as you disassemble the fob to remember how everything fits back together.
Steps to Open Your Key Fob:
- Inspect for Screws: Examine your key fob for any tiny screws holding the case together. If you find screws, use a precision screwdriver to remove them and set them aside safely.
- Locate the Seam: Find the seam where the two halves of the key fob case meet.
- Use a Pry Tool: Gently insert a thin, flat tool like a watch knife or small screwdriver into the seam.
- Pry Carefully: Apply gentle pressure to pry the case open. Work your tool around the seam gradually, like peeling an orange, to avoid breaking the plastic fasteners. Don’t force it!
Once the key fob is open:
- Identify the Battery: You will see the battery inside. Note the code printed on the battery itself. This is what kind of battery your key fob takes.
- Take a Picture: Before removing the old battery, take a photo of the inside of the key fob, paying attention to the battery’s orientation (+ and – sides). This will be helpful when you install the new battery.
Common Key Fob Battery Types
While there are various types, here are some of the most common batteries used in car key fobs:
- CR2032: This is the most prevalent type. It’s a 3V lithium coin cell battery known for its long life and reliability.
- CR2025: Similar to CR2032 but slightly thinner. It’s also a 3V lithium coin cell.
- CR2016: Thinner than both CR2032 and CR2025, also a 3V lithium coin cell.
- CR1632: A 3V lithium coin cell, sometimes used in smaller fobs.
- CR1620: Another 3V lithium coin cell, less common than CR2032 but still found in some key fobs.
Some key fobs, like those for certain Ford Mustang models, might even require two batteries for operation. Always double-check your specific key fob to be sure. For example, some Honda CR-V models use a CR1250 battery.
Replacing Your Key Fob Battery: Step-by-Step
Once you’ve determined what kind of battery your key fob takes and purchased the replacement, the process of changing the battery is usually straightforward:
- Open the Key Fob: Follow the steps mentioned earlier to carefully open your key fob.
- Remove the Old Battery: Use tweezers or your fingertip to gently remove the old battery. Note the orientation of the battery (positive side up or down) if you didn’t take a picture earlier.
- Insert the New Battery: Install the new battery, ensuring it’s placed in the correct orientation (match the +/- signs and your photo if you took one).
- Close the Key Fob: Carefully snap the key fob case back together. If there were screws, replace and tighten them gently.
- Test Your Key Fob: Try locking and unlocking your car to ensure the new battery is working correctly.
Tips and Precautions
- Don’t Force Anything: If the key fob is difficult to open, double-check for hidden screws or try prying from a different angle. Forcing it can damage the case.
- Handle Batteries Carefully: Coin cell batteries can be a choking hazard, especially for young children. Keep them out of reach.
- Dispose of Old Batteries Properly: Recycle your old batteries according to local regulations. Many battery retailers offer battery recycling programs.
- Avoid Touching Circuit Boards: When the key fob is open, avoid touching the circuit board or any internal components other than the battery itself. This can prevent accidental damage.
- Static Electricity: In dry environments, be mindful of static electricity. Ground yourself by touching a metal object before handling the circuit board to prevent static discharge from damaging sensitive electronics.
When to Seek Professional Help
While replacing a key fob battery is often a DIY job, there are situations where you might want to seek professional help:
- If you’re uncomfortable opening the key fob.
- If you damage the key fob case during opening.
- If replacing the battery doesn’t solve the problem. There could be other issues with your key fob or car’s receiver.
- For key fob programming. In rare cases, after battery replacement, your key fob might need to be reprogrammed to your car, especially for newer models with advanced security features. While less common with simple battery changes, it’s something to be aware of. Some Interstate All Battery Center locations offer key fob programming services.
Get Back to Reliable Key Fob Functionality
Knowing what kind of battery does your key fob take empowers you to tackle this minor car maintenance task yourself. By following these steps, you can quickly and easily replace your key fob battery and restore the convenience of your remote locking and unlocking system. Don’t let a dead key fob battery leave you stranded or struggling – a fresh battery can often be the simple solution. And remember, you can find replacement key fob batteries and even spare key fobs at locations like Interstate All Battery Center if needed.
