Is your car key fob acting up? Do you have to press the button multiple times to lock or unlock your doors? It might be a sign that your key fob battery is dying and needs replacing. Luckily, getting a new battery for your key fob is usually a straightforward process you can handle yourself, saving you time and money compared to dealership service.
Many people assume a dead key fob means an expensive trip to the mechanic or dealership for a complete key fob replacement. However, in most cases, the solution is as simple as swapping out the old battery with a fresh one. This guide will walk you through the steps on how to get a new battery for your key fob and get your remote working like new again.
Identifying the Right Key Fob Battery for Replacement
Before you start taking apart your key fob, it’s crucial to know what type of replacement battery you need. Using the wrong battery can prevent your key fob from working or even damage it.
One of the easiest ways to find out is to check your key fob itself. Many key fobs have the battery type embossed on the back casing or inside the battery compartment. Look for markings like “CR2032”, “CR1620”, or similar alphanumeric codes.
Opening a modern car key fob to access the battery compartment, a common task for routine key fob maintenance.
If you can’t find the battery type on your key fob, don’t worry. Your car’s owner’s manual is another excellent resource. Refer to the section on key fobs or remote controls; it should specify the correct battery type needed for your specific vehicle model. Alternatively, a quick online search for your car’s year, make, and model along with “key fob battery type” will often provide the information you need.
Most key fobs utilize common coin cell lithium batteries, with CR2032 being one of the most prevalent. However, variations exist depending on the vehicle manufacturer and model year. For example, while many Hondas use CR2032, some, like certain CR-V models, might require a CR1250 battery. Some key fobs, like those for certain Ford Mustang models, even require two batteries. Therefore, verifying the correct battery type beforehand is a vital step in how to get a new battery for your key fob successfully.
Essential Tools for Key Fob Battery Replacement
Once you’ve identified the correct replacement battery, gather the necessary tools. Fortunately, you likely already have most of these common household items:
- Small Precision Screwdriver: A small flathead or Phillips head screwdriver, typically in the 1.4mm to 2.4mm range, is often needed to unscrew tiny fasteners on some key fobs. Eyeglass repair kits often contain screwdrivers of suitable sizes.
- Thin Pry Tool or Watch Knife: A thin, flat tool is essential for carefully prying open the key fob casing without causing damage. A watch knife, a small flathead screwdriver, or even a guitar pick can work effectively. Avoid using overly sharp or thick tools that could scratch or break the plastic.
- Replacement Battery: Purchase the correct battery type you identified earlier. These batteries are widely available at drugstores, supermarkets, electronics stores, and online retailers.
- Tweezers (Optional but Recommended): Tweezers are helpful for handling the small battery, especially when removing the old one and inserting the new one. They prevent fingerprints on the battery and make maneuvering in tight spaces easier.
- Smartphone Camera (Highly Recommended): Before removing the old battery, use your phone to take a clear picture of the key fob’s internal layout. This photo will serve as a valuable reference, ensuring you place the new battery and any other components back in their correct positions.
Having these simple tools ready will streamline the process of how to get a new battery for your key fob and ensure a smooth and successful battery replacement.
Step-by-Step Guide: Replacing Your Key Fob Battery
With the right battery and tools at hand, you can now proceed with replacing your key fob battery. Follow these steps carefully:
- Open the Key Fob Casing: Examine your key fob for any visible screws. If present, use the precision screwdriver to remove them and set them aside in a safe place. Next, locate the seam or notch on the key fob casing. This is where you’ll insert your pry tool. Gently wedge the thin pry tool into the seam and carefully twist or lever to begin separating the two halves of the casing. Work your way around the seam, gently prying until the case pops open. Avoid forcing it open at a single point, as this can damage the casing.
Demonstration of using a watch knife to carefully separate the two halves of a key fob case, a delicate step in accessing the battery.
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Take a Reference Photo: Before removing anything, take a clear photo of the key fob’s internal components with your smartphone. Pay close attention to the battery’s orientation (+ positive side up or – negative side up) and the placement of any other parts. This photo will be invaluable when reassembling the key fob.
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Remove the Old Battery: Carefully remove the old battery. Some key fobs have small clips or retaining mechanisms holding the battery in place. Use tweezers or your fingertip to gently unclip or slide these retainers if necessary. Note the orientation of the old battery before removing it.
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Insert the New Battery: Install the new battery, ensuring it’s oriented correctly (matching the polarity of the old battery and as indicated in your reference photo). Press it firmly into place until it is securely seated in the battery compartment.
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Reassemble the Key Fob: Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing and snap them back together. Ensure the case closes completely and securely. If you removed screws earlier, reinsert and tighten them gently, being careful not to overtighten.
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Test Your Key Fob: Test the key fob buttons to ensure they now lock and unlock your car doors and perform other functions as expected. If everything works correctly, you’ve successfully replaced your key fob battery!
By following these detailed steps, you can confidently learn how to get a new battery for your key fob and restore its functionality.
Troubleshooting and When to Seek Professional Help
In most cases, replacing your key fob battery is a simple fix. However, if your key fob still doesn’t work after a battery replacement, consider these troubleshooting steps:
- Double-Check Battery Type and Orientation: Ensure you used the correct battery type and inserted it with the proper polarity (+ and – sides).
- Clean Battery Contacts: Sometimes, corroded or dirty battery contacts can prevent proper electrical connection. Use a cotton swab and a tiny bit of rubbing alcohol to gently clean the metal contacts in the key fob and on the battery itself.
- Reseat the Battery: Remove and reinstall the new battery to ensure it’s making solid contact with the terminals.
- Check for Damage: Inspect the key fob’s internal components for any signs of damage, such as broken circuits or loose wires. If you notice any damage, professional repair or replacement might be necessary.
If you’ve tried these steps and your key fob still isn’t working, it might indicate a more complex issue, such as a problem with the key fob’s internal circuitry or the car’s receiver. In such cases, it’s best to consult a professional. Dealerships and reputable car repair shops can diagnose and address more intricate key fob problems. For key fob replacements and programming, consider visiting Interstate All Battery Center locations for expert services and solutions.
Replacing your key fob battery is often a quick and easy way to restore your remote’s functionality. By understanding how to get a new battery for your key fob and following these steps, you can save yourself time and money while keeping your car access convenient and reliable.
