Are you struggling to lock or unlock your Audi A4? Or perhaps you’ve noticed a key symbol with a battery icon on your dashboard? It might be time to replace your Audi A4 key fob battery. Don’t worry, this is a straightforward task you can often handle yourself, saving you time and a trip to the dealership.
At keyfobprog.com, we specialize in automotive key solutions, and we’re here to guide you through the process of changing your Audi A4 key fob battery. While we’re always ready to assist you with any car key issues, we also believe in empowering you with the knowledge to tackle simple maintenance tasks.
This guide will walk you through the steps to replace your Audi A4 key fob battery, ensuring you can get back on the road with a fully functional key. We’ll cover the most common types of Audi key fobs and provide clear, easy-to-follow instructions.
Identifying Your Audi A4 Key Fob Type
Audi A4 models, like many modern vehicles, utilize different key fob designs. Knowing which type you have is the first step to a smooth battery replacement. Here are the two primary types you’ll likely encounter with your Audi A4:
- Flip Key Fob: This type features a physical key blade that flips out from the fob body. You might find both older and newer variations of this design.
- Smart Key/Keyless Entry Remote: This more modern fob typically doesn’t have a visible, flip-out key blade (though it usually contains a hidden emergency key). It’s designed for keyless entry and push-button start.
While the specific appearance might vary slightly depending on the year of your Audi A4, these are the general categories. Let’s explore how to change the battery for each type.
Step-by-Step Guide to Change Your Audi A4 Key Fob Battery
Follow these instructions carefully to replace your Audi A4 key fob battery. Ensure you have the correct replacement battery before you begin. For most Audi A4 key fobs, you’ll need a CR2032 battery, readily available at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers.
Changing the Battery in an Audi A4 Flip Key Fob (Older Models)
If your Audi A4 uses an older flip key style fob, here’s how to replace the battery:
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Gather Your Tools and Battery: You’ll need a small flathead screwdriver and two 1620 batteries. Note: While the original article mentions 1620 batteries, newer models and CR2032 are more common. Double-check your specific key or owner’s manual. If it is indeed 1620, ensure you have the correct type.
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Separate the Fob Halves: Carefully insert the flathead screwdriver into the seam running along the side of the key fob. Gently twist to separate the two halves of the key fob casing.
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Locate the Battery Cover: Identify the battery cover on the half of the fob that doesn’t contain the flip key mechanism. It’s usually a small, separate compartment.
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Open the Battery Cover: Use the flathead screwdriver again to gently pry open the battery cover. There might be a small notch to assist with this.
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Replace the Batteries: Remove the old 1620 batteries. Take note of the orientation (+ and – sides). Insert the new 1620 batteries in the same orientation.
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Reassemble the Fob: Snap the battery cover back into place. Then, carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly together until they click shut.
Changing the Battery in a Newer Audi A4 Flip Key Fob
For newer Audi A4 flip key fobs, the process is slightly different and typically uses a CR2032 battery:
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Obtain a CR2032 Battery: Make sure you have a new CR2032 battery ready.
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Flip Out the Metal Key Blade: Press the key release button to flip out the metal emergency key blade.
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Find the Notch: Look inside the key compartment where the metal key blade was housed. You’ll see a small notch.
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Pry Open the Battery Cover: Insert a small flathead screwdriver into the notch and gently twist. This should pop open the battery cover. You can then gently pry the cover off completely, starting from the keyring loop end.
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Replace the CR2032 Battery: Remove the old CR2032 battery, noting which side is facing up (positive side). Install the new CR2032 battery with the positive (+) side facing upwards.
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Close the Fob: Carefully align the battery cover back onto the key fob, ensuring the plastic notches are correctly positioned. Press it firmly until it snaps securely closed.
Changing the Battery in an Audi A4 Smart Key/Keyless Entry Remote
If your Audi A4 uses a smart key or keyless entry remote, here’s how to change the battery:
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Get a CR2032 Battery: Have a new CR2032 battery ready for replacement.
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Remove the Emergency Key Blade: Locate the release button (usually a small slider or button) on the key fob. Press it to remove the hidden metal emergency key blade.
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Locate the Notch: Look in the area where you removed the metal key blade. You’ll find a small notch.
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Pry Open the Fob Shell: Insert a flathead screwdriver into the notch, angling it slightly towards the center of the key fob. Carefully rotate the screwdriver to gently pry open the key fob shell.
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Replace the CR2032 Battery: Remove the old CR2032 battery and replace it with a new one, ensuring the positive (+) side is facing upwards.
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Snap the Fob Closed: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob shell and press them together until they snap firmly back into place.
What to Do If Your Audi A4 Key Fob Isn’t Recognized
After replacing the battery, your Audi A4 key fob should ideally work immediately. However, in some cases, the car might not recognize the key right away. If this happens, try reinitializing the key:
- Manual Door Lock: Insert the metal key blade into the driver’s side door lock.
- Manual Lock/Unlock: Manually unlock and then lock the door using the key.
- Unlock Button Press: Remove the key from the door and press the “unlock” button on the key fob.
This process often resynchronizes the key with your Audi A4. If you continue to experience issues, it’s best to consult with Audi service professionals.
Audi A4 Key Fob Battery Replacement Cost
The good news is that replacing your Audi A4 key fob battery is quite affordable. The CR2032 battery itself typically costs between $5 to $15, depending on the brand and retailer. If you choose to have a service professional replace it for you, labor costs will apply, but doing it yourself is a great way to save money.
For the cost of the battery and potentially saving on service fees, changing your Audi A4 key fob battery yourself is a worthwhile DIY task.
Get Expert Audi Service in Costa Mesa
While changing your Audi A4 key fob battery is usually simple, keyfobprog.com and Audi Fletcher Jones are here to assist with any Audi service needs. If you encounter any difficulties or prefer professional assistance, schedule your service appointment today! We’re dedicated to keeping your Audi in top condition. Contact us with any questions about your Audi key fob or any other service requirements.
