Is your car key fob not working as reliably as it used to? A common culprit is a dead or dying battery. Fortunately, replacing your key fob battery is a straightforward process you can often do yourself at home. This guide will walk you through the steps on how to open your key fob and replace its battery, saving you time and potentially money.
First, gather the few items you’ll need for this simple task.
What You’ll Need to Open Your Key Fob
Before you begin, make sure you have these items on hand:
- Small Screwdriver or Pry Tool: A flathead screwdriver, often a small jewelry or eyeglass repair screwdriver, works best. You can also use a plastic pry tool if you have one to minimize scratching.
- New Battery: Identify the correct type of battery for your key fob. This is usually a small, round button cell battery. Common types include CR2032, CR2025, or CR1632. Check your owner’s manual or the old battery itself for the correct number.
- Your Key Fob: The key to the whole operation, of course!
Once you have your tools and replacement battery, you’re ready to open your key fob.
Step-by-Step Guide to Opening Your Key Fob
Key fobs are designed to be relatively secure, but they are made to be opened for battery replacement. Follow these steps carefully:
1. Locate and Remove the Emergency Key
Most modern key fobs contain a mechanical emergency key. This key is usually hidden and can be released by a small button or latch on the fob. Look for a button, often silver or a different color than the main fob casing, usually located on the side or bottom of the key fob. Press and hold this button while gently pulling out the emergency key.
This image illustrates a typical key fob with a removable emergency key. The silver part at the base of the fob is designed to slide or pull out when the release button is activated, revealing the mechanical key inside.
2. Find the Opening Notch
After removing the emergency key, examine the area where the key was housed. You should see a small notch or seam line running around the perimeter of the key fob. This notch is the designated point for opening the fob.
This image emphasizes the location of the opening point on the key fob. The arrow directs attention to the small indentation or seam on the fob’s casing, indicating where to insert a tool to pry it open.
3. Carefully Pry the Key Fob Open
Insert the tip of your small screwdriver or pry tool into the notch you located. Gently twist or pry to begin separating the two halves of the key fob. Work your way around the seam, applying gentle pressure. Be patient and avoid using excessive force, as you could damage the plastic casing. The clips holding the fob together can be snug, especially the first time it’s opened.
This image visually demonstrates the technique of using a screwdriver to pry open a key fob. It highlights the careful insertion of the tool into the seam and the gentle prying motion required to separate the fob halves without causing damage.
Replacing the Key Fob Battery
Once the key fob is open, you’ll have access to the battery compartment.
4. Note the Battery Type and Orientation
Before removing the old battery, take a close look at how it’s positioned. Note the positive (+) and negative (-) sides. Usually, the positive side is facing upwards, and this is often marked with a “+” sign on the battery itself or in the battery compartment. Also, take note of the battery type number printed on the battery (e.g., CR2032). You’ll need this information to ensure you buy the correct replacement.
5. Remove and Replace the Old Battery
Gently remove the old battery. You might be able to pry it out with your small screwdriver, or sometimes it will simply lift out. Install the new battery, making sure the positive and negative sides are oriented correctly, just as the old battery was.
This image provides a clear view of the internal components of a key fob after it has been opened, specifically focusing on the battery and its placement within the fob’s housing. It helps users visualize what they should expect to see when they open their own key fob.
Closing the Key Fob
With the new battery in place, it’s time to reassemble your key fob.
6. Reassemble the Key Fob
Carefully align the two halves of the key fob casing. Press them firmly together until they snap back into place. You should hear a click or feel them securely join. Ensure there are no gaps between the two halves.
7. Test Your Key Fob
After reassembly, test your key fob to make sure it’s working correctly. Press the lock, unlock, and any other buttons to confirm they are functioning as expected. If everything works, congratulations, you’ve successfully replaced your key fob battery! Don’t forget to slide the emergency key back into its place.
Replacing your key fob battery is a simple maintenance task that can save you from the inconvenience of a non-working remote. By following these steps, you can confidently open your key fob and get your remote working again.
If you encounter any difficulties or prefer professional assistance, the team at keyfobprog.com is always ready to help. Contact us for any key fob repair or replacement needs!
