Is your 2009 Honda Accord key fob not working as reliably as it used to? A common culprit is a low battery. Replacing the battery in your Honda Accord key fob is a straightforward process you can easily do yourself, saving time and money compared to a dealership visit. This guide will walk you through each step to replace your key fob battery and also address a potential issue with dielectric grease that Honda vehicles of this era sometimes experience.
To begin, you’ll need a few simple tools. A small Phillips head screwdriver, specifically a #0 size, is essential. For older key fobs, the screw might be secured with a thread-locking chemical, requiring a bit more effort. In such cases, gently warming the screwdriver tip with a lighter or candle for a few seconds can help loosen the screw. You’ll also need a small flat-head jeweler’s screwdriver to open the key fob casing and the correct replacement battery, which is a CR1616 3V type.
Now, let’s get started with the battery replacement:
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Loosen the Screw: Use your #0 Phillips head screwdriver to carefully loosen the small screw located on the back of your Honda Accord key fob. It’s important to use the correct size screwdriver to avoid stripping the screw head.
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Open the Key Fob Casing: Once the screw is removed, you can separate the two halves of the key fob casing. Many Honda key fobs have a small slot along the side to aid in opening. Insert a small flat-head screwdriver or your fingernail into this slot and gently pry the two halves apart. Be patient and apply steady pressure. If it feels stuck, double-check that the screw is fully removed.
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Access the Battery Capsule: Inside the key fob, you’ll find a small black capsule containing the circuit board and battery. Carefully remove this capsule from the key fob casing.
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Open the Battery Capsule: Using your small flat-head screwdriver, gently pry open the battery capsule. Pay attention to the orientation of the two halves of the capsule as they only fit back together correctly in one direction. Note how the battery is positioned to ensure you insert the new one correctly.
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Replace the Battery: Remove the old CR1616 battery and replace it with a new one. Ensure the positive (+) side of the battery is facing the correct contact, as indicated by the markings inside the capsule.
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Reassemble and Test: Carefully reassemble the battery capsule, ensuring the two halves are correctly aligned. Place the capsule back into the key fob casing and snap the two halves of the key fob casing back together. Finally, reinsert and tighten the small Phillips head screw. Test your key fob to ensure it is working correctly.
Addressing Potential Grease Issues:
For 2008 and newer Honda Accords, including the 2009 model, a common issue reported is the presence of dielectric grease on the battery contacts. This grease, while intended to protect electrical connections, can sometimes interfere with the battery contact in the key fob, leading to weak signal or failure. If you’ve replaced the battery and are still experiencing issues, or if you open your key fob and notice grease on the battery or contact points, gently wipe the grease off the battery and the contact pads inside the capsule before reassembling.
By following these steps, you can easily replace the battery in your 2009 Honda Accord key fob and ensure it functions reliably. Remember to handle the components with care, and if you encounter any difficulties, consulting a professional is always an option.
